How ‘Beyond the Tray’ conference redefined hospitality skills, reinforce dignity
The saying that a successful event does not end at the planning stage and that the true mark of professionalism lies in the execution and actualisation of that vision holds.
The saying that a successful event does not end at the planning stage and that the true mark of professionalism lies in the execution and actualisation of that vision holds.
It goes without doubt that waiters remain one of the most essential touch points within the event and hospitality industry. It is therefore in recognition of this fact that the Association of Professional Party Organisers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN) put together a conference that brought together over 1,000 waiters in Lagos, Nigeria, not only to celebrate their invaluable contributions but also to refine their hospitality skills and reinforce the dignity, professionalism, and excellence required within the profession.
The training with the theme ‘Beyond the Tray: The Power Behind Service was put together by the association to commemorate International Waiters’ Day.
Speaking at its training and empowerment session, Babatunde Olawuyi, vice president of APPOEMN, said that there is a need to recognise waiters and service personnel as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s hospitality industry, adding that their roles go beyond merely serving guests on occasions.
Olawuyi said that the association is committed to changing the mindset of workers in the sector and helping them understand their importance in the event business value chain.
According to him, many people in the profession have failed to see waiting and hospitality services as a career path capable of growth and leadership opportunities.
He stated the association has taken it upon itself to reorganise and reorient practitioners in the sector in order to eliminate mediocrity and promote professionalism.
The vice president noted the initiative was aimed at helping participants build confidence, discover purpose, and understand that their current position does not define their future.
“The impact is to change their mindset, help them build confidence, and make them realise they are an important part of any business they find themselves in,” Olawuyi stated.
Adeola Sessi-Traore, the education director of the association, said the body is intensifying professional training and industry collaborations to ensure event practitioners in Nigeria meet global standards.
She said the Association remains committed to equipping its members with the knowledge and professional competence required to compete internationally.
According to her, the association places strong emphasis on education, standardisation, and continuous learning to strengthen professionalism within the industry.
She explained that it is focused on ensuring that practitioners are properly trained and guided by internationally recognised best practices in delivering services.
“For us, we are very big on standards and ensuring that we have international laws and everything to guide us,” she said.
Sessi-Traore, while explaining the inspiration behind the programme theme, said the association decided to focus on waiters and hospitality service providers because of their critical role in customer experience and event success.
She noted that while the event industry is built around service delivery, the association wants professionals within the sector to go beyond ordinary service and embrace excellence, impact, and professional growth.
On her part, the special guest of honour, Bolatito Elizabeth Okolie, chief executive officer of Bonnix Drinks, called on waiters and other hospitality professionals to embrace continuous learning, professionalism, and innovation to remain competitive and relevant in the evolving hospitality industry.
She described hospitality as more than service delivery, noting that it involves creating memorable experiences, building human connections, and maintaining high standards of professionalism.
“Hospitality professionals remain at the forefront of customer satisfaction and brand reputation, making their roles critical to the success of businesses and events.
“Continuous learning is not optional; it is essential,” she said, adding that rising customer expectations, evolving service standards, and increasing global competition require professionals to constantly sharpen their skills and embrace innovation.
Addressing waiters, supervisors, managers, and other industry professionals present at the event, she stressed that excellence is not determined by titles but by attitude, consistency, and dedication to service.
