From Dreams to Leadership: How International Talent is Thriving at ahs hospitality

Camilla Yang • July 24, 2025

At ahs hospitality, we believe that great leadership has no borders. Through our New Zealand International Student Program, we proudly welcome skilled and driven individuals from around the world, providing them with meaningful opportunities to grow into confident and capable leaders within the hospitality industry.

Meet Nirmal and Krishna, two dedicated professionals from Nepal who joined ahs hospitality through this program. Arriving in New Zealand with ambition and determination, they now hold 2IC (Second-in-Charge) leadership roles in some of the country’s busiest hotels.

Their journeys reflect more than just career success. They are stories of resilience, growth, and discovering a strong sense of purpose in a new environment.

A New Beginning

Nirmal began his hospitality career in 2009 and later set his sights on New Zealand for new opportunities. With the support of a trusted job search agency, he applied for a role at ahs hospitality. His experience and leadership potential were quickly recognised.

"I started as a Housekeeping Supervisor," Nirmal shares. "I was always eager to contribute more, including supporting staff groupings, resolving guest concerns, and learning everything I could. Within a few months, I was promoted to 2IC."

Krishna’s journey began with a degree in Hotel Management and hands-on experience at one of the world’s leading hotel chains. Like Nirmal, he connected with ahs hospitality through the job search agency and secured a supervisor position.

"I was responsible for training, maintaining service standards, and overseeing room quality from day one," Krishna explains. "Today, I am the Executive Housekeeping Manager and lead a team managing more than 500 rooms."

Growing Through Challenge

For both Nirmal and Krishna, the transition to a new country and workplace came with its share of challenges, but each obstacle became an opportunity for growth.

“When my manager was away, I was responsible for running the entire department,” Nirmal recalls. “From handling guest feedback and staff rosters to managing the budget, the pressure pushed me to grow stronger and more confident.”

Krishna shares a similar experience. “Working in a new environment with people from diverse backgrounds taught me a lot,” he says. “I developed skills in teamwork, communication, and leadership. Every day was a chance to learn and improve.”

Today, both leaders thrive in high-pressure hotel settings, guiding their teams with confidence. Whether managing VIP check-ins or mentoring new staff, Nirmal and Krishna continue to rise to every occasion with professionalism and pride.

Support That Makes a Difference

At the heart of Nirmal and Krishna’s success is a strong network of support that has empowered them to grow and lead with confidence.

Nirmal is quick to credit his Operations Manager and HR team, “They’ve supported me from the start, always encouraging and motivating. That helped me become the leader I am today.”

Krishna echoes that sentiment, highlighting the trust placed in him from day one. “The support from my managers and the hotel team gave me confidence. They trusted me with big responsibilities, and that trust made all the difference.”

Advice for Future International Stars

For international students considering a similar path, Nirmal and Krishna offer valuable advice drawn from their own experiences.

“Find the right opportunity that aligns with your skills and goals,” Nirmal advises. “Know what you’re applying for, stay focused, and be prepared, so opportunities will follow.”

Krishna encourages a proactive mindset. “Work hard, stay positive, and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he says. “Use tools like LinkedIn and Indeed to explore options, and don’t hold back.”

A Journey Just Beginning

For Nirmal and Krishna, this is only the beginning. Their stories are a powerful reminder that with ambition, dedication, and the right support, anything is possible.

At ahs hospitality, we are proud to be part of their journey and remain committed to creating an environment where international students can grow, lead, and succeed. Their achievements reflect the spirit of our New Zealand International Student Program, empowering people to turn potential into progress.

Interested in joining the journey?
Explore our Career Page and start your own success story with ahs hospitality.

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