Twenty students are spending the summer gaining work experience in the hospitality industry with the MEF Group.

The group, which owns 12 restaurants around the island including Harbourfront, Fourways Inn, and Little Venice, invites students of all ages to apply for their work experience programme each summer.

It typically employs students aged between 13 and 24.

Syriah Lottimore, 18, who has been working as a pool attendant at Rosewood Tucker’s Point Club and Hotel, said: “I am blessed to be able to work in a great atmosphere with some vibrant and fun colleagues.

“I thoroughly enjoy interacting and meeting guests from diverse parts of the world. It also allows me to build and sustain relationships with them, which can be beneficial for the future.”

Shantel Bell, 19, who has worked as a beach attendant at Tucker’s Point, said: “I mostly enjoy working in the hospitality industry because it opens new doors in the hospitality career field, and it gives me a chance to make people’s day.”

Hayden Teitel, 13, who works as a bus boy at Little Venice Restaurant, said: “I am enjoying the experience being able to work as a team. Career wise within the hospitality industry, I would like to work in the kitchen one day as a sous chef.”

Elise Govan, 23, said of her experience as a hostess at Lido Complex: “I’ve revealed to myself how much I truly enjoy engaging in conversation, forming relationships and familiarity with people and making people happy. Every shift is fun, entertaining and enjoyable.”

An MEF spokeswoman said: “For many years we have welcomed students into our restaurants.

“The idea is mainly to provide students with a solid foundation, where they can learn and get experience from our talented and well experienced staff, whether it be in the kitchen, dining room or administration.

“We believe that a hands-on approach is always the best approach, and the students can learn so much from our team.

“There are not any major requirements to get involved, just a desire to learn and be a part of a team.”

To apply, potential students can send their resume and references to hr@mef.bm