JW Marriott Pune Marks Second Phase of Project Pranita – A road to Empowerment.

Pune, India – August, 2025 – JW Marriott Pune is proud to announce Project Pranita, marking its second phase in supporting underprivileged young women. It is aligned with the governments foresight as well as UN initiative Serve 360 standing on four pillars of education, empowerment, equip with experience and employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. Building on the success of the initial phase, this initiative, inspired by efforts to promote gender equality and education for women, continues to offer a structured program that combines academic sponsorship with hands-on training, fostering career growth for participants.

Project Pranita emphasizes on the growth of young women aged between 18 to 24 years who have completed their 10th to 12th grade education. Candidates are sourced through partnerships with local schools, government institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and skill development centers focused on girl child development. The selection process involves collaboration with these partners as well as a conversation with the Leadership of JW Marriott Pune

Selected participants undergo a comprehensive orientation in the organization as well as an enrollment in a fully sponsored Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Studies from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). This step includes company policies, and program details. The three-year program integrates practical work experience with academic progress: the first year includes rotational training across core operational areas, the second year offers skill specialization, and the third year extends all concepts of experience in chosen areas.

Weekly IGNOU coaching sessions are held, performance is tracked through monthly Review and Action Plan (RAP) sessions with the Learning & Development team and department heads, alongside quarterly reviews with HR and operations leaders. Each scholar is paired with a mentor for guidance on work and studies. Remedial support addresses challenges, and other progressive processes.

The program aligns with National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) standards. Additional benefits include subsidized accommodation, medical insurance and life insurance. The program emphasizes skill development in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership, offering three years of practical experience to enhance employability.

Upon completion, scholars are evaluated receiving recognition detailing their work experience. Graduates are considered for available roles based on performance and business needs, including a development plan.

In its second phase, JW Marriott Pune continues to support four scholars: Ashlesha Thakkar, Wilfortis Nongrum, Wandashisha Kharkongor, and Ibanphyrnai Suting; who were welcomed with starter kits including prerequisites for this journey. This follows the hotel’s partnership with Yuva Parivartan and aligns with Marriott’s UN related responsibilities: commitment to empower through opportunity, deepening programs that develop hospitality skills among women and youth.

“We are truly inspired by the remarkable progress of Project Pranita and remain deeply committed to empowering these young women as they embark on their professional journeys,” said Amit Kumar, General Manager, JW Marriott Pune. “This second phase underscores our steadfast dedication to fostering meaningful opportunities that nurture both their personal and career growth.”

Across India, over 160 scholars are enrolled in Project Pranita, with JW Marriott Pune adhering to the guideline of one scholar per 50-100 rooms. The program also draws inspiration from initiatives like SAATHIYA, a Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiative launched in February 2019, which focuses on skilling underprivileged youth for hospitality careers.

JW Marriott Pune remains committed to fostering an inclusive environment through initiatives like Project Pranita, reflecting its dedication to empowerment. As part of Marriott International’s global network, the hotel continues to uphold its values of community impact and guest care, ensuring that programs like Project Pranita contribute to a brighter future for its scholars and the broader society.