Navigating Issues and Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Practices with Dr. James Scott from University of Sunderland, UK

Taylor's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events recently hosted a Tourism Speaker Series focusing on 'Sustainable Tourism: Issues and Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Practices'. The goal was to enhance students' understanding of sustainable tourism in the field of Tourism and Hospitality. Dr. James Scott from the University of Sunderland, United Kingdom delivered a keynote speech on this topic, drawing on his extensive experience in leading departments related to hospitality, events, aviation, and tourism across international campuses.

Dr. James Scott is currently the Head of School of Law and Tourism at University of Sunderland. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy from Durham University. With a robust skill set that includes Higher Education, Research, Event Management, University Teaching, Time Management and more, Dr. James contributes valuable insights to the industry. His research interests include legislation around the night-time economy and liminal spaces for tourism in the developing world. He is a travel enthusiast and have enjoyed hospitality and events in 69 countries.

Approximately 30 students enrolled in the Bachelor of International Tourism Management (Hons.) programme actively participated in this 1.5-hour session. The interactive nature of the talk allowed students to deepen their understanding of sustainable practices within the tourism industry. The session included group activities centered around a compelling case study, where students analyzed the study and proposed innovative funding decisions aimed at advancing tourism development objectives while ensuring responsible spending.

The students' energy and enthusiasm were evident as each group presented their creative ideas and solutions. The level of creativity and passion demonstrated by the students was commendable, reflecting their commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices. Three winning teams were recognized for their outstanding proposals, inspiring their peers to think critically and creatively about sustainable tourism.

Overall, the Tourism Speaker Series provided an insightful and enriching experience for the students, emphasizing the importance of addressing sustainability challenges in the tourism industry. The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Events is dedicated to nurturing future leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change within the realm of sustainable tourism.

Empowering Single Mothers' Journey to Turn Passion into Profit through Yayasan Hasanah-Taylor's University WEDO Project

The Women Entrepreneurial Development (WEDO) project funded by Yayasan Hasanah Special Grant, spearheaded by the dynamic leadership of Ts. Dr. Salini Devi Rajendran, Senior Lecturer from Taylor's School of Food Studies and Gastronomy, has been a beacon of empowerment for 20 single mothers, nurturing their journey toward successful entrepreneurial skills & capabilities.

Yayasan Hasanah Special Grant is a funding initiative by Yayasan Hasanah, a foundation under Khazanah Nasional Bhd, a Malaysian foundation focuses on sustainable development and community empowerment. This grant aims to support innovative projects and initiatives that address critical social, economic, or environmental challenges in Malaysia. The Special Grant is often targeted towards specific areas of need identified by Yayasan Hasanah, and it typically provides financial assistance, capacity building support, and networking opportunities to selected grantees. The grant prioritizes projects with a high potential for impact, scalability, and sustainability.

The Women Entrepreneurial Development (WEDO) project at Taylor's University is a dedicated initiative aims at fostering the growth and success of women entrepreneurs. This project recognizes the vital role that women entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth, innovation, and social development. Through a combination of education, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, WEDO seeks to empower women to start and scale their own businesses, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development and gender equality.

The generous support and sponsorship from Dr. Oetker Nona (M) Sdn. Bhd has been the driving force behind this impactful endeavor, exemplifying their commitment to social responsibility and community development. Dr. Oetker is a German multinational company that produces baking powder, cake mixes, frozen pizza, pudding, cake decoration, cornflakes, birthday candles, and various other products. The company is a wholly owned branch of the Oetker Group, headquartered in Bielefeld, Germany. Their contributions, including essential baking ingredients from Oetkernona, have enabled the foundation for these aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their passion for baking into flourishing home-based businesses.

Under the expert mentorship of Chef Lecturers from Taylor's University, Chef Norhayati Hussin, Chef Mohamad Zamri Idris, and Chef Shahril Nizam Shamsudin, the participants have immersed themselves in a 12-week programme, mastering practical baking skills and crafting an array of delectable treats from buns and muffins to tartlets and cakes.

Beyond the culinary aspect, this project underscored the school's dedication to fostering independence, nurturing talent, and building a supportive entrepreneurial community. As the WEDO Project participants prepare to embark on their entrepreneurial journey, they will receive three months of ongoing monitoring and support from our dedicated project team.

This initiative not only empowered women but also served as a catalyst for resilience and transformation within our community, highlighting the profound impact of collaborative efforts in driving positive social change.

Taylor's Events Management Students Seize the Best Presentation Award at 8th AFECA Asia MICE Youth Challenge 2023 in Bangkok

Congratulations to our exceptional Bachelor of International Events Management (Honours) students - Gloria Wynne Khorigin, Lee Kit Ying, Ronan Alexander Fernandes and Mariyam Shaufa, along with their Lecturer Advisor Ms. Dhiya Hikmahana Abdul Razak, for winning the Best PowerPoint Presentation Award at the prestigious 8th #AFECA Asia MICE Youth Challenge 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand.

This challenge, organized by the Asian Federation of Exhibition and Convention Associations (AFECA) was opened to all undergraduate students attending an accredited university or college within Asia. It was a platform for the future Asian MICE talents to outwit other participants by showcasing their genius novel event and convince the judges why their country/area is THE BEST MICE destination in Asia! This was an opportunity for all to enhance their skills in the “new normal” ways to which the industry had adapted for business continuation and is expected to persist for many years.

This year's edition featured 24 dynamic teams from 11 countries/regions - Malaysia, Singapore, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Macao, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and Japan. The competition was judged by Mr. Michael Kruppe, General Manager of Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC); Ms. Marisa D. Nallana, Vice-President - Exhibitions of The Philippine Association of Convention/Exhibition Organizers and Suppliers, Inc. (PACEOS); Mr. Roger Wang, President of Marketing Institute of Singapore (MIS); Mr. Walter Yeh, Immediate Past President of Taiwan Exhibition & Convention Association (TECA); and Ms. Orachorn Wongpan-ngam, Director of MICE Capabilities Development Department at Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Taylor' winning team incorporated Virtual Reality seamlessly into their presentation, proposing a business event named 'Seaside Synergy', a conference focusing on sustainable coastal and marine tourism. The judges were impressed and amazed by their presentation and the effort they put into it. The students' dedication, perseverance, and resilience throughout the 6-month preparation process have undoubtedly enriched their educational journey.

The experience has catalyzed personal and academic development, honing critical thinking skills and fostering teamwork and collaboration. Their achievements served as beacons of inspiration for future generations and have set a remarkable standard on a global stage.

Congratulations once again to all students who had the audacity to embark on such transformative journeys!