A new chapter begins as we warmly welcome the Class of 2024/2025 to JTTI – the Jambiani Tourism Training Institute.
Since 2007, one woman’s unwavering dedication has shaped the future of hundreds of young Zanzibaris. Mrs. Pat Elias—affectionately known as Mama Pat—has devoted nearly two decades of her life to building bridges of opportunity for those too often left behind. In a rapidly expanding tourism market, she saw a gap: local youth eager to work, but without access to the training they needed. She didn’t wait for change—she created it.
Together with her committed team—Ibrahim, Desmon, and Abdulla—Mama Pat has offered not just education, but confidence, dignity, and hope. And now, with the arrival of this year’s class, a beautiful milestone is reached: 50% of the students are girls. These young women, full of energy and ambition, are ready to carve their own paths—at hotel front desks, in housekeeping departments, and in bustling restaurants across Zanzibar. They are the future of this island’s hospitality, and they’re ready to shine.
But this year also marks a turning point. In 2026, Mama Pat will retire, passing the torch with grace and pride. The JTTI legacy will live on through the new Hospitality Training Centre at Ma’a Salama, located right next door to the current school. It will continue the mission with the same passion and purpose—ensuring that young people in Zanzibar, regardless of background, can gain the skills they need for meaningful careers in tourism.
This is more than just a new school year. It’s the beginning of a legacy renewed, a future uplifted, and a promise kept.
