In the fast-paced world of hospitality, where trends and customer expectations are constantly evolving, staying ahead takes more than just enthusiasm—it requires ongoing learning, skill sharpening, and a competitive edge. That’s where HOTEC 2024 comes in.
As Fiji’s premier hospitality tradeshow, HOTEC 2024 is more than just an event; it’s a stepping stone to professional growth and industry recognition. This year, we’re offering young and ambitious professionals a fantastic opportunity to enhance their skills through intensive training and exciting competitions designed to challenge and inspire.
In partnership with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) is dedicated to nurturing the next wave of hospitality leaders. Together, we’re crafting a series of events that will help you reach new heights in your career, culminating in a showcase of excellence at HOTEC 2024.
The training sessions and competitions at HOTEC 2024 serve a dual purpose: they’re a chance to boost your skills through hands-on training and to showcase your talent in competitive challenges. We’re hosting preliminary events in three key locations across Fiji to make it easier for everyone to get involved:
Suva: September 17 – 20 at Central Cuisine, Damodar City, and USP TAFE
Nadi: September 24 – 27 at Tanoa Skylodge and USP TAFE
Taveuni: October 7 – 9 at Somosomo Village Hall
These events will not only serve as qualifiers for the HOTEC 2024 finals but also offer intensive training programs, including masterclasses led by industry experts. These sessions are designed to provide practical, hands-on learning that you can apply directly to your role in the hospitality industry.
Completing the training and practical assessments will earn you full certification, a valuable addition to your professional credentials. We’re working closely with FHTA and local institutions like USP TAFE to ensure a smooth and impactful learning experience. This partnership ensures you get high-quality training in familiar and accessible settings.
At HOTEC 2024, we’re committed to not just preparing you for the finals but enriching your entire professional journey with valuable skills and certifications. We look forward to seeing you shine and advance in your hospitality career!
These sessions are far from generic; they’re crafted specifically for the needs of the industry, ensuring you get the most relevant and up-to-date knowledge. Led by seasoned experts who’ve honed their skills at the top of their fields, these instructors don’t just teach—they mentor. They’ll guide you through real-world challenges you’re likely to face in your career.
The program emphasizes practical assessments, giving you the chance to put your new skills to the test in real-world situations. This hands-on approach is key to bridging the gap between theory and practice, helping you build the confidence to excel in your field. Once you complete these assessments, you’ll earn full certification—a credential that not only validates your skills but also boosts your career prospects.
HOTEC 2024 is set to feature three exciting competition categories central to the hospitality world: barista, cocktail, and chef competitions.
First up, the Barista Competition, in partnership with the South Pacific Coffee Company (SPCC), is all about mastering the art of coffee. It’s not just about making a good cup of joe—it’s about creating a coffee experience from bean selection to final presentation. Participants are judged on their ability to deliver a coffee that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
Next, the Cocktail Competition, teaming up with Finest Liquor & Triple 3 (Decked Out Group), will put your mixology skills to the test. This isn’t just about mixing drinks; it’s about crafting unique, flavorful cocktails that tell a story through taste and presentation.
It’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity and understanding of flavor balance.
Finally, the Chef Competition, supported by Fiji Gas, is all about culinary excellence.
You’ll need to whip up dishes that not only taste fantastic but also demonstrate innovative techniques and a deep understanding of your ingredients. This competition is a true test of skill and creativity, pushing you to explore new culinary frontiers.
All competitions will be judged with fairness and transparency, thanks to criteria set by APTC and our competition partners. This ensures everyone is on an even playing field, with the top performers advancing to the exciting finals at HOTEC 2024.
These competitions are more than just a chance to show off your skills—they’re an opportunity to gain recognition and make your mark in the industry. The finals will be a major highlight of HOTEC 2024, set against the vibrant backdrop of our industry tradeshow.
HOTEC 2024 is your chance to shine in front of industry leaders, potential employers, and fellow peers. Competing on this stage can boost your visibility, open doors to new career opportunities, and help you build meaningful connections. It’s a moment to celebrate your hard work and set the stage for exciting career growth.
For everyone joining HOTEC 2024, the training and competitions are a great way to level up your skills. You’ll learn advanced techniques and gain knowledge that’s right on point for your field. Plus, the certification you earn will add a significant edge to your resume, making you stand out to future employers. The experience of competing at such a high level also gives you a broader perspective, preparing you for new and exciting challenges ahead.
For businesses, investing in staff development through HOTEC 2024 is a win-win.
Sharper team skills mean better service quality, which can boost customer satisfaction and overall business performance. It’s also a great chance to spotlight and reward your rising stars, keeping them motivated and loyal. And don’t forget the fantastic networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers, keeping you in the loop with the latest trends.
We’ve made sure our fee schedule is clear and fair for everyone. FHTA members enjoy a rate of $300 VIP per participant, while non-members will pay $450 VIP. This all inclusive package covers two certified courses from APTC, access to specialized training sessions and masterclasses, and entry into the HOTEC preliminary competitions. It also includes valuable networking opportunities and detailed training materials to ensure you get the most out of the event.
A huge shoutout to our incredible partners who make HOTEC 2024 possible. APTC is crucial for the certified courses, while Fiji Gas, SPCC, Finest Liquor, and Triple 3 each bring their own expertise to the competitions, raising the bar for quality and credibility.
Our other special event partner is the amazing team from Total Event Company who will add their extra sparkle and flair to our event, making it truly special.
We’re deeply grateful for their support and contributions. HOTEC 2024 is an amazing opportunity to boost your skills and gain recognition in the hospitality and tourism industry. Register early to seize this chance and make your mark on a prestigious stage.
For more details or to chat about partnership opportunities, drop us a line at info@fhta.com.fj or give us a call at 777 0137 or 992 8811. Register now and take the first step towards a bright future in hospitality and tourism!
