HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering excellence in the hospitality industry, proudly announces the commencement of the 7th edition of the AHP Hospitality Challenge and Awards – 2024, centered around the theme of Sustainability. This eagerly awaited event aims to highlight the exceptional skills and creativity of young hospitality professionals while promoting sustainable practices within the industry. Running until July 25th, the event will see over 350 participants competing in 20 diverse categories, including a notable inclusion of 18 specially-abled professionals, reflecting the event’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Furthermore, the inclusion of the specially–abled category will open up a myriad of opportunities for those we often undermine.
The AHP Hospitality Challenge 2024 kicked off with an array of competitions designed to assess the proficiency of participants across various operational sectors of the hotel industry. The opening day featured the Front Office Master Competition, where more than 25 professionals displayed their expertise at Radisson Blu Hotel, Paschim Vihar. Mr. G.P. Gautam, the Chief of the Jury for the Front Office Master Competition, commended the participants for their outstanding performances. Challenges included extempore on topics in closely associated with front office, allowing participants to showcase their spontaneity and communication skills.
Following the initial competitions, attention shifted to the three-day culinary segment, where over 125 chefs showcased their culinary talents across 11 categories. These included International Cuisine, Halwai (Indian sweets), Dressing a Cake, Regional Indian Cuisine, Kebabs, Sweet Sensation (Display), 45 Minutes Live Cooking, Biryani, International Confectionery, Ornamental Bread, and another 45 Minutes Live Cooking event. The competitions were divided into two categories: the student category, and the professional’s category, allowing everyone to compete and put forth their talent. During the three days, all attending were treated to a festival of flavours and aromas. The culinary contests were held at Banarsidas Chandiwala IHM in Delhi, judged by a prestigious panel of WACS-certified jury members, led by renowned Chef Sireesh Saxena.
Ms. Devipshita Gautam, General Secretary of the Association of Hospitality Professionals, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the platform it provides for showcasing remarkable talent and promoting sustainable practices within the hospitality sector. “The AHP Hospitality Challenge is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and sustainability. We are thrilled to see such a diverse and talented group of professionals coming together to inspire and learn from one another.”
The remaining competitions, including The War of Spirits and Art of Table Setting, will take place at Surya Hotel, New Delhi, while the Art of Bed Making and Art of Towel Folding will be held at The Park Hotel, New Delhi. The event will culminate on July 25thwith the esteemed AHP Hospitality Excellence Awards 2024 at the Airforce Auditorium in New Delhi. This grand event will honor the winners for their outstanding achievements and will be attended by leading hoteliers, restaurateurs, renowned chefs, hospitality experts, and corporate executives, celebrating the pinnacle of industry excellence.
Mr. Vinod Gulati, President of the Association of Hospitality Professionals, emphasized the importance of sustainability in this year’s theme, noting that it reflects the industry’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility. “Our focus on sustainability this year is a testament to the industry’s dedication to environmental stewardship. By integrating sustainable practices into our competitions, we are not only showcasing talent but also promoting a crucial aspect of modern hospitality.”
