The annual awards, now in their 29th year, recognise outstanding achievement across the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors and celebrate individuals who have made a significant contribution to their workplace and the wider industry.
SERC Higher Level Apprentice Grace Dugan (21), from Belfast, who has just achieved a Foundation Degree in Culinary Arts, has won the Student Management Potential Award, which celebrates emerging talent and recognises students who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and commitment to building successful careers within the hospitality sector. Tom Idiculla (22) from Craigavon, who recently completed a Foundation Degree in Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management (validated by Ulster University) at SERC, was also shortlisted for the award.
In addition, SERC Lecturer Friedrich Machala has won the Lecturer of the Year Award, recognising his dedication to inspiring and developing the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Paul Mercer, Principal Lecturer and Commercial Hospitality Manager at SERC said, "We are incredibly proud to see Friedrich, Grace and Tom recognised by the Institute of Hospitality. It reflects not only their individual talent, commitment and professionalism, but also the strength of hospitality education and training at SERC.”
SERC continues to play a vital role in supporting Northern Ireland's hospitality industry through industry-focused education, professional development and strong partnerships with employers across the sector.
