The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group is launching the Singapore Airlines Foundation, which will serve as a platform to support individuals and communities in need within Singapore, as well as contribute to the growth of the country’s aviation industry.
The foundation, funded from income earned on an endowment of S$30 million (US$22.18 million) contributed by SIA, is expected to launch two programmes that aim to provide financial aid to students in need and inspire them through immersive experiences in the aviation industry and mentorship schemes.
The Youth Uplift Programme is designed to empower students from families in need, where eligible students at Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education (ITE) colleges, polytechnics, or universities will receive financial assistance by the foundation. Participants will also get industry experience through a three- to six-month traineeship with the SIA Group, courses from the Singapore Airlines Academy to enhance their personal and professional skills, and mentorship from SIA employees. Applications are expected to open in July 2024.
The Youth Outreach Programme is designed to ignite a passion in the aviation industry among upper secondary school and junior college students – the five-day hands-on, behind-the-scenes experience with the SIA Group during their school holidays will provide the students with an exclusive look at the group’s operations, and insights from the teams behind its success.
Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong said: “Establishing the Singapore Airlines Foundation represents a significant milestone in the SIA Group’s long tradition of service and contribution to communities worldwide. Its programmes will support those in need, inspire and empower the next generation of aviation professionals, and help catalyse the long-term growth of Singapore’s air hub.”
The SIA Group and its employees continue to support various community activities, both in Singapore and across the global markets served by SIA and Scoot. These currently include initiatives that nurture sporting talent, promote the arts, encourage environmental stewardship, and assist those in need including children, youth, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, she has also been supporting the development of Malaysia’s National Planetary Health Action Plan.
Kempinski Hotels has appointed Barbara Muckermann as its group CEO.
Millennium Hotels and Resorts Middle East & Africa has joined the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (WSHA) as a member, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to fostering sustainability across the region’s vibrant hospitality industry.
As a new affiliate member, Millennium Hotels & Resorts Middle East & Africa aligns with nearly 50 global members, collectively addressing critical challenges affecting the planet, communities, and the hospitality industry. Committed to instigating sustainable change, WSHA offers invaluable resources and programmes, empowering the hospitality sector to create a future that prioritises prosperity and responsibility.
Millennium Hotels & Resorts MEA’s ESG goals are in alignment with the region’s evolving priorities, and through its sustainability programme, Millennium’s Green Path Brand Playbook, the brand has set ambitious targets, including a 27 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA and Lakhraim Group, said: “We are committed to environmental responsibility and believe that WSHA’s collaborative approach and resources will be instrumental in achieving our sustainability goals. Together with like-minded global leaders, we aim to spearhead positive change in the hospitality industry, driving towards a more sustainable future for our planet, people, and businesses.”
Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of WSHA commented: “As a truly global organisation, we are increasing our reach across the Middle East and Africa, and Millennium Hotels is integral to moving the region towards Net Positive Hospitality. Collectively, we will lead the global hospitality industry towards a sustainable, prosperous future that thrives by giving back more than it takes.”