Christina joined Dr Graham’s Homes at upper kindergarten age. After being supported through school by sponsors – her family were unable to cover her fees at the time – she applied for a DGHUK Extended Sponsorship to help her study at college. Now graduated with a degree, Christina recently secured her first job in hotel management. This is her story.

Christina, why did you want to embark on a career in hospitality?

My uncle had worked in the industry, and through him I got to know about hotels and the opportunities available. That’s when I decided to take this career path. So, I graduated from Dr Graham’s Homes in 2021 and then decided to take a degree in hotel management.

What happened next?

One of my campus placements was with a major hospitality company. They ended up offering me a job, including a year’s training at one of their key hotels. They had initially offered me a position in the front office. Later, I started training in butler services. Now I’m working as a trainee in food and beverage. The training programme lasts for a year. After that, I’ll be offered the position of an executive. I plan to continue working at the hotel and apply for the management trainee programme internally.

What do you enjoy most about the job – and what’s the biggest challenge?

I love the work environment and the clientele. Interacting with guests is something I truly enjoy – to hear them talking about their travel stories, families, cultures, and so on, and build connections with them. The most challenging thing is working in an unpredictable and evolving environment. The industry demands a lot of physical work as well, with irregular shift timings.

What were the biggest challenges and highlights of your time at DGH?

The only challenge was staying away from my family for so many years of my life. I worked really hard to keep up my marks and position during school and I really enjoyed being a part of the school choir. The time I spent at the Homes was one of the best phases of my life, with beautiful memories and lifelong friends.

How did your Extended Sponsorship come about?

I had received a mail from the DGHUK Committee saying they were willing to support me. I was really grateful for that, because I was sponsored by the Canadian Committee in school and wasn’t sure about getting support for college. The UK Committee (DGHUK) helped me with everything from paying fees to rent, travel expenses, and pocket money. It was really important for me as the course was expensive. I wouldn't have been able to do it without the sponsorship.

For people who might be interested in supporting a DGH student at college, how would you encourage them? Why do you think the scheme is worthwhile?

I would like to tell them how it has been a life-changing opportunity for hundreds of students at the Homes – me being just one of them. This scheme has given me access to things so I can thrive. It has given me encouragement and hope. Sponsorship Secretaries Ian and Anji Russell were always there to help and interact with me too. A sponsorship enables children to go to school, so they can take control of their future, and that of their family, and give value to other people’s lives. Seeing how this support can change lives is a beautiful thing. It’s a good deed that a young person will be thankful for – for the rest of their lives.

Will you stay in touch with Dr Graham’s Homes?

Yes, I’m still in touch with the Homes and I hope there comes a day when I'll be able to provide the same love and support I’ve been given. I’m planning to visit next year with my family, as my younger sister is still there, and my mum always wanted to visit the place.