The Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA), originally founded in 1971 as the Ceylon Hotel School Graduates Association, celebrated its 53rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) recently, at the Shangri-La Hambantota.

Representing a community of over 1,500 hospitality professionals, the SLHGA is the largest professional association for hospitality graduates in Sri Lanka, known for its dedication to fostering leadership, innovation, and community service within the industry.

With more than 400 members in attendance, including delegates from overseas, the AGM showcased SLHGA’s continued commitment to professional development, corporate social responsibility, and contributions to the hospitality industry. The event also provided a platform for recognizing past accomplishments and introducing new initiatives aimed at supporting Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector and beyond.

A key highlight was the re-election of Mr. Patrick Pereira as President of SLHGA. With an extensive career at Aitken Spence Hotel Management and currently serving as Vice President of Learning and Development and Head of Rooms Division for Aitken Spence properties in Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Oman, Mr. Pereira is widely respected for his mentorship and leadership in the industry.

The AGM also featured notable dignitaries, including HE Mr. Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Suresh Rajendra, President of the Leisure Sector at John Keells Group, as the Guest of Honor, both underscoring the significance of SLHGA’s influence in the hospitality industry.

In addition to leadership appointments, SLHGA unveiled new initiatives, including the establishment of a welfare fund aimed at supporting retired veterans of the industry with financial and medical assistance. Previously offered on a request basis, this formalized fund, managed by a dedicated subcommittee, marks an enhanced focus on supporting the hospitality community through organized welfare initiatives.

SLHGA also announced the launch of its revamped website, which now offers online membership applications and payment processing, reflecting the association’s efforts to improve accessibility and engagement with members across Sri Lanka and globally.

The association’s contributions to Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM) and other leading hospitality institutes have been transformative. SLHGA has initiated and supported a range of national competitions, including the National Bartenders Competition, Bar Champ, Tea Masters Cup, Best Barista, and Room Stylist Challenge, all aimed at fostering skill development. Additionally, SLHGA is the driving force behind the Colombo Hotel Show, the largest hospitality exhibition in Sri Lanka, which brings together industry leaders and innovators to share insights and showcase advancements.

With a revitalized leadership team and an ambitious agenda, SLHGA is poised to continue advancing industry standards, championing innovation, and nurturing talent in Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. The association remains dedicated to building a united community of hospitality professionals and promoting excellence for generations to come.