A group of more than 40 people from all around Oranjemund finished a four-day training course designed to improve customer service and make the town more welcoming for visitors.
The workshop, which ran from 15 to 18 June, was put together by the OMDis Town Transform Agency alongside Sole Hospitality. It brought together a mix of local workers, including fuel station attendants, hairdressers, bartenders, waitresses, cleaners and security staff.
Five pupils from !Garibams Senior Secondary School also took part, receiving an early introduction to the hospitality industry.
This is the second time this year OMDis has run the scheme, following a similar session back in February for local businesses and organisations.
The goal is to get the whole community on the same page when it comes to looking after tourists.
Speaking at the start of the week, OMDis acting general manager Aunie Gideon said while good roads and local attractions matter, it is the people who make a place memorable.
“Whether you are working at a petrol station, driving a taxi, helping someone with directions, or serving in a restaurant, you are often the first and last person a visitor meets,” Gideon said.
“You play a huge part in making sure people leave with good memories.”
The sessions focused on everyday practical skills, such as how to communicate clearly, handle complaints calmly, solve problems on the spot and make customers feel welcome.
