The hospitality industry is defined by the diversity of its roles, according to Michael Zhou, vice-president of operations at Hilton South China. The sector offers a wide range of development opportunities, many of which do not require advanced degrees or extensive work experience, he said.

Hu Yanong, a villager from Tianzai village in Yingzhou township, said she gained a great deal from the event and is interested in hotel front desk roles. She hopes authorities will continue offering such programs.

The event marked the opening of Hilton's "Travel with Purpose" Week in Greater China, which features charitable events in Shanghai and other cities focused on vulnerable groups and community support. It was co-hosted by Hilton, the China Environmental Protection Foundation and the Lingshui Li Autonomous County Women's Federation.