BENGALURU (India CSR): Diageo India (United Spirits Ltd.), a key player in the alco-bev sector, has partnered with the Skill Council for Persons with Disabilities (SCPwD) to train and place over 300 students through its ‘Learning for Life’ program. This initiative is designed to equip persons with disabilities with essential skills, enabling them to secure employment in the hospitality industry. The collaboration underscores Diageo India’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workforce.
Program Overview
The ‘Learning for Life’ program provides a three-month residential training course at SCPwD-affiliated centres in Delhi NCR and Bengaluru. The program’s curriculum focuses on Food and Beverage Services, interpersonal skills, employability, and communication. The comprehensive training ensures students are well-prepared for various roles in the hospitality industry.
At a recent convocation in Bengaluru, 22 students graduated as the first batch of trainees. The event was attended by key leaders such as Ms. Shilpa Vaid, Chief Human Resource Officer of Diageo India; Mr. Ravindra Singh, CEO of SCPwD; Ms. Lizanne Pinto from Marriott International; and Mr. Amlan Kumar Dasgupta from Royal Orchid Hotels. These industry leaders showed support for a more inclusive hospitality industry.
Inclusive Impact
The partnership aligns with Diageo India’s broader Spirit of Progress ESG action plan, which promotes diversity and inclusion. By partnering with SCPwD, Diageo India ensures persons with disabilities gain the skills required to meet industry demands, creating more accessible employment opportunities.
Upon completion of the program, students are employed by SCPwD’s placement partners, which include leading hotel chains such as Marriott Hotels India, Accor Hotel, Lemon Tree Hotels, and quick-service restaurants like La Pino’z Pizza.
Leadership Quotes
“We are proud to strengthen our partnership with SCPwD, furthering our goal of inclusion in the hospitality sector. Our ‘Learning for Life’ program equips persons with disabilities with skills and resources needed for employment, offering them a path to a more inclusive future,” said Shilpa Vaid, Chief Human Resources Officer, Diageo India.
Ravindra Singh, CEO of SCPwD, added, “Diageo India’s leadership in promoting inclusion sets an example for others. Together, we’re not just creating jobs; we’re breaking down barriers to mainstream employment.”
Success Story
A program participant, Ramya S., shared: “I never thought I could land a regular job, but the ‘Learning for Life’ program changed everything. Now, I’m ready to join the hospitality industry with confidence.”
