Visa Wellington On a Plate is proud to announce Carolina Front, the bar manager at Sherwood Queenstown, as the winner of the 2024 Visa New Zealand Hospitality Scholarship. Carolina has been recognised for her commitment to making hospitality more environmentally sustainable.
Carolina’s philosophy is “Every drink tells the story of our land and our commitment to ecological responsibility”.
At Sherwood, Carolina focuses on using only local products in the cocktail menu, and the wine list has an emphasis on natural and organic wines. Carolina inspires the bar team to continue innovating in waste reduction and engage suppliers who can support Sherwood’s commitment to sustainability practices.
The Visa New Zealand Hospitality Scholarship, valued at NZD $30,000, was launched in 2023 to inspire more young people to pursue a long-term career in the hospitality industry. The scholarship prize includes a five-day placement at a top international hospitality venue, professional development, a one-year mentorship, business training and future participation in Visa Wellington On a Plate.
Carolina says she is thrilled to win the scholarship and is particularly excited about the opportunity to learn from mentors and industry leaders working in sustainable hospitality.
“I am incredibly honoured to receive the Visa NZ Hospitality Scholarship. This opportunity not only allows me to continue my passion for supporting local and small independent producers but also empowers me to drive sustainable practices within an industry I love so much.
Country Manager, Visa New Zealand and South Pacific, Anthony Watson says, “Initiatives like the Visa New Zealand Hospitality Scholarship are critical in supporting and nurturing local industry talent. Emerging leaders like Carolina are pivotal in driving a sustainable and innovative future for the hospitality industry in New Zealand and we are excited to support this journey.
The scholarship was open to NZ residents aged 22 to 35 years with a minimum of two years’ experience working in the hospitality industry.