In 2016, Southport Sharks established a Community Study and Development Program. The program’s purpose was to build and foster community relationships with highly regarded education institutions, providing a pathway for local and international students to enter the hospitality industry.
Since inception, the program has helped countless students gain real life experience at Southport Sharks through a variety of internships, Work Integrated Learning programs and cultural days.
In May 2019, Southport Sharks was awarded the Student Employability Award by the Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards (GCBEA).
GCBEA seek to contribute to the self-image and identity of Gold Coast business and to foster pride in the business community. The monthly award highlights the growing importance of our city as a business hub and recognise industry leaders, with a view to encourage others.
The Student Employability Award recognises and celebrates engagement between industry and the education and training sector. This is critical to ensure the Gold Coast produces work-ready graduates who can become the next generation of leaders driving the Gold Coast economy. The award recipient is recognised as supporting the city to attract quality students and talent, which drives innovation and supports the growth of the business community.
Human Resources Manager, Ann-Maree O’Neill was ecstatic when she found out the news.
“As an organisation that maintains ongoing efforts to support the student community, it was an incredible achievement to be recognised in such a comprehensive and prestigious scheme” – Ann-Maree O’Neill
A big thank you to Study Gold Coast who sponsors the award.
To learn more of how Southport Sharks supports students, please visit the Community Study Program page.