A young chef from Enniskillen is thriving in the prestigious kitchens of the Lough Erne Resort after being supported by a local social enterprise in applying for the role.
Ryan Melly, 25, is now employed as a junior chef at the Co Fermanagh hotel, after joining the NOW Group in 2020, an organisation which helps people with learning difficulties, autism and neurodiverse conditions.
After initially joining to gain confidence and develop new skills, Ryan subsequently took part in the Loaf Catering Academy programme before applying to the role at the Lough Erne.
Ryan, who works alongside Executive Chef Noel McMeel, said: “I did the catering course and I learned so much from it.
“I met so many people thanks to it and it was great to socialise again after Covid.
“With the help of the NOW Group, I have employment in the Lough Erne Resort and I am really enjoying it.”
Chef McMeel said Ryan was very worthy of his place in a team which is known for their high standards.
He added: “Ryan has shown himself to be very committed to his personal development and has been a really good asset within our kitchen team which operates in a fast-paced working environment where standards need to be consistently high.
“Right across our teams at Lough Erne Resort we take a lot of pride in our ongoing diversity and inclusion policies.
“Ryan has proved himself worthy of employment as a Junior Chef and our team and I will be working closely with Ryan to help him be the very best he can be.”
Ryan received support from the NOW Group throughout the application process and interview for his role, with Programme Manager Sean Hanna saying the resort had gone "above and beyond" to support Ryan in his development.
Sean said: “From the initial conversation we had with a member of the HR team in the Lough Erne Resort, we instantly had a great feeling about the hotel and their staff – it was clear that workplace inclusion is a priority for them.
“They have gone above and beyond to support Ryan on his employment journey.”
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