Aanisah Hassim

First hospitality job:

My first hospitality job was making and selling smoothies and drinks at a community carnival!

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Age you started working in hospitality:

15

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Your inspiration to begin working in hospitality:

I was first introduced to the world of hospitality in my first year of high school during baking class - memories I will never forget! Ultimately, what inspired me to begin working in this industry is making people smile through good food and small gestures of kindness - A little goes a long way!

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My hospitality mentor:

When I was a kid, my hospitality mentors would definitely have to be my mom and dad! Watching my mom create and try out new recipes in the kitchen and my dad’s love for the world as a travel agent, definitely sparked my interest and curiosity of all the possibilities that exist in Hospitality. Some of the other amazing mentors I want to mention include my high school baking teacher, my professors during my time in post-secondary, and the amazing team that I work with that I constantly learn from to this day!

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What are your favourite aspects of your job?

Hands down... the diversity and the people. Working in this industry makes you feel welcome no matter what you do, where you're from or what language you speak. It's kind of like being a part of a family with connections all over the world that is ready to support your growth, open doors of opportunity for you, and celebrate your achievements!

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What has inspired you to continue your career path in hospitality?

After recently being re-immersed into the industry as an adult, I’ve gained an all-new appreciation and respect for all the hard work, effort, and passion put into reinvigorating this industry to make it even better than it was - just being a part of that process and learning all about it is empowering.

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Advice for students interested in a career in hospitality:

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. This industry is filled with people, places, and opportunities you would never expect to come across.