Marriott International has launched Project Prarambh, a new initiative aimed at helping young people from vulnerable communities gain skills, workplace exposure and access to formal employment opportunities in India’s hospitality sector.
The initiative, launched on 10 September 2026, is part of Marriott International’s Serve 360 sustainability and social impact framework. It has been developed in partnership with The Job Plus and the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), with a focus on preparing young people for careers in the organised hospitality industry.
Project Prarambh will support young people between the ages of 18 and 30 through industry-relevant training, practical workplace exposure and mentorship. The programme will be delivered through a network of training partners across India, giving participants an opportunity to develop both technical skills and the confidence needed to enter the formal workforce.
Building Skills for Employment
Over the next two to three years, Project Prarambh aims to train 500 young people. The programme will focus not only on job-related skills but also on workplace readiness, helping participants understand professional environments and prepare for the expectations of formal employment.
For some beneficiaries, the programme could become their first opportunity to enter formal employment and earn a regular income. This could be particularly significant for young people who are among the first members of their families to pursue organised-sector careers.
The impact of such an opportunity can extend beyond an individual’s career. A stable job and regular income can contribute to greater financial independence while potentially creating new opportunities for families as well.
Focus on People and Hospitality
Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International, said that people have always been central to the company’s success. He highlighted the importance of investing in people while also addressing the hospitality sector’s growing need for skilled and industry-ready talent.
According to Marriott, Project Prarambh brings these two priorities together by creating opportunities for young people while also strengthening the talent pipeline for the hospitality industry.
Vinay Jaswal, Vice President, HR Ops (South Asia), HR Tech & Analytics (APEC), Marriott International, said the company’s approach to People & Culture extends beyond the workplace. He noted that initiatives such as Project Prarambh are intended to encourage greater participation, growth and inclusion by supporting young people at an early stage of their professional journey.
Bridging the Talent Gap
The partnership with The Job Plus is focused on identifying young people with the potential to enter the organised workforce and helping them develop the skills needed to succeed in a professional environment.
Natwar Nagar, Founder, The Job Plus, said the organisation is looking forward to working with Marriott International and THSC over the long term to create more opportunities for young talent to enter, grow and build careers in hospitality.
THSC will contribute industry-aligned training, assessment and certification to the programme. Rajan Bahadur, CEO, Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council, said such initiatives can help bridge the gap between the growing demand for skilled workers and the availability of industry-ready talent.
With Project Prarambh, Marriott International is seeking to combine skill development with practical exposure and employment opportunities, creating a structured pathway for young people to begin careers in India’s expanding hospitality sector.
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