Inspiro learner Caterina Gaskell has been nominated as a finalist for the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award at the Institute of Hospitality NI Awards for Professionalism.
The Awards Dinner and Ceremony will occur at Culloden Estate & Spa on Friday, September 20th, where the winners will be announced. This marks the 27th year that IoH Northern Ireland has recognised the achievements of individuals working in all sectors of the industry.
The awards provide a platform to celebrate those managers who have made a significant contribution to their workplace and the industry as a whole. Caterina works at McDonald’s in the Meadows shopping centre in Portadown, Craigavon, and is currently completing a NVQ Level 3 Hospitality, Supervision and Leadership apprenticeship, with maths, English and ICT essential skills.
Caterina began working at McDonald’s in 2022 as a crew member. She has utilised her apprenticeship learning to progress within her workplace, and she currently holds the position of area leader. Her future goal is to leverage her knowledge to acquire qualifications to become a health and safety officer.
Caterina expressed her thoughts on her learning process, saying, “Janet, my Inspiro trainer, is great! She has helped me a lot, and the course content has contributed to my progress in the workplace. The apprenticeship has given me a deeper understanding of the hospitality industry.”
Megan Whitla, People Manager at McDonald’s, remarked, “Cat has been a standout team member from day one. No one at store 795 is surprised that she has come this far. She took on this challenge wholeheartedly and excelled. We are all extremely proud of her. Janet and the Inspiro team have made this journey seamless and have boosted my confidence as a mentor.”
We wish Caterina the best of luck at the awards on the 20th.
Contact us to find out how we can support your hospitality business with apprenticeships.
(Header image – Learner Caterina with 2nd Assistant Manager Sebastian Egertowski, McDonalds Portadown)
