Programme Overview

In 2005, six Marriott hotels located in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Costa do Sauipe championed the set up of YCI in Brazil, training 38 young people in a pilot programme. Over the following years, 14 properties of seven competing hotel companies have become involved in the 24-week programme, which typically starts in March and ends in September each year.

Currently, training is undertaken at properties operated by leading hotel companies in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, including Hyatt, InterContinental, Marriott, Orient-Express and Starwood. The Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS) assists the initiative by organising the recruitment of suitable candidates amongst other tasks.

New Partners in Brazil

In 2012, YCI secured the local support of two new organisations: Aldeias Infantis SOS Brasil (SOS Children’s Villages Brazil) in São Paulo and the Centre for Digital Inclusion in Rio de Janeiro.

Two key criteria for the selection of these new partners were their ability to access YCI’s student target group and their expertise in and commitment towards youth development programmes. The transition process was assisted by IDIS.

Spotlight on Brazil

According to the International Labour Organization, youth aged 15-24 represent 26% of the workforce in Brazil. However, USAID reported that in 2009 the average youth unemployment rate was 21.1%, with the number reaching as high as 52% in Brazil’s poor northeast region.

The World Travel & Tourism Council estimates that the travel and tourism industry represents approximately 1 in every 18 jobs in Brazil, making the skills that YCI provides to participants very appropriate for the nation's economy.