MUMBAI, OCTOBER, 2023.

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced its partnership with Head Held High (HHH),India’s foremost non-profit driving youth transformation, women empowerment and economic empowerment in rural communities across India.

Commenting on the signing, Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, said, "This collaboration is a testament to IHCL’s commitment to social progress and inclusive growth, and is in line with our ESG + framework of Paathya. IHCL will establish skill centres in select locations across the country to train youth for employment across industries, including hospitality. We are delighted to partner with Head Held High Foundation.”

The skill centres will serve as hubs of empowerment, fostering the development of essential skills that bridge the gap between rural youth and the professional world. They will focus on tailored training modules that align with the demands of today’s competitive job market, ensuring that participants are work-ready upon program completion.

Speaking on the occasion,Mr. Pankaj Singh Thakur,Chief Executive Officer,Head Held HighFoundation said, “This association will address the unique challenges faced by rural youth, empowering them to unlock their full potential and seize opportunities for personal and professional growth.We are delighted to partner with IHCL for this initiative.”

Head Held High’s efforts in reducing inequity in all its forms include needs assessment, expanding social protection, rural entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, skills-based training, livelihood support, career guidance & counselling and more.  

Regarded as the custodian of Indian hospitality, IHCL under its Paathya frame work continues to invest in building industry-relevant talent pools with an aim to develop and support deserving youth and their families, while contributing to the overall growth of the industry.