GQ chef of the year Mark Hix and GB 2008 medallist Tasha Danvers were among guests who spoke to East Londoners about Olympic career opportunities and athletes' nutrition.
The day included a demonstration of some of Mark Hix's signature dishes, masterclasses in preparing canapés and non-alcoholic cocktails, interactive presentations and career advice.

Podium Skills London hosted the Hospitality Future Skills 2009 event at Hackney Community College’s London City Hospitality Centre (LCHC), to highlight the career and training opportunities available within the hospitality and catering industry.

The event had a particular focus on the opportunities that are likely to arise leading up to and during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Athlete Tasha Danvers and Mark Hix, top restaurateur and newspaper columnist, spoke to the participants about the importance of the hospitality & catering industry not only to the 2012 Games but to the London and UK economy as a whole.
People taking part were also given a first hand insight into the opportunities offered by the sector by employers including Sodexo, The Savoy Hotel and D&D Restaurants.

Tasha Danvers said: “This fantastic event provided people with the information they need to get the right preparation and opportunities to create success in their chosen fields. Nutrition is a major component in the success of a world class athlete and with 2012 just around the corner, now is the time to get prepared not just to aid in the success of our country's top athletes but to seize the numerous opportunities of the Games.”

Ian Ashman, Principal of Hackney Community College commented: "We were delighted to host this event. As a College, we are dedicated to helping Londoners to make the most of the opportunities that the Games will bring. I'm pleased that the Future Skills participants could benefit from our industry-standard training facilities while learning from such high profile experts."

To find out about training and courses in the London City Hospitality Centre, or Hackney Community College go to www.hackney.ac.uk

Podium Skills London's role is to co-ordinate with Further Education and Higher Education institutions across London to make sure the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games leave Londoners better and more appropriately skilled to stay in long-term employment. To find out more wisit the Podium Skills London website