4th Transnational Partners' Meeting of the HOST Project Concludes Successfully in the Netherlands
The 4th
Transnational Partners' Meeting (TPM) of the HOST Project was recently
held in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, marking an important milestone in the
project’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity in the hospitality industry.
This meeting brought together partner organizations to evaluate progress, test
the HOST board game mechanics, and plan the next steps in the development of
the final version of this innovative training tool.
Unlocking Neurodivergent Potential in Hospitality
A key focus of the HOST Project is unlocking the potential of neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism, within the hospitality sector. Individuals on the autism spectrum often have unique strengths such as exceptional attention to detail, pattern recognition, and the ability to deeply focus on tasks. These traits make them highly valuable in roles requiring precision, consistency, and creative problem-solving—qualities that are often overlooked in the fast-paced world of hospitality.
However, for these strengths to be effectively harnessed, managers must be equipped with the right training and tools to understand and support the needs of neurodivergent employees. This is where the HOST Project comes in. Through the development of a board game and accompanying training materials, the project aims to provide hospitality managers with the resources necessary to create more inclusive work environments.
Building an Inclusive Workplace: The HOST Board Game
The HOST Board Game was a highlight of the meeting in Leeuwarden, where partners tested its mechanics to ensure that it delivers a meaningful and engaging learning experience. This board game is designed to help managers better understand neurodivergence and how to create environments where both neurodivergent and neurotypical employees can thrive together.
The training tools provided by the project offer practical advice on how to accommodate different working styles, from clear communication to creating predictable routines and sensory-friendly environments. These simple adjustments can drastically reduce stress for autistic individuals and improve their performance, making them feel more comfortable and empowered at work.
The Benefits of Inclusion for All
The HOST Project highlights that inclusion is not just about providing equal opportunities—it also represents a competitive advantage for businesses. In the hospitality industry, where attention to detail, creativity, and customer service are crucial, neurodivergent employees can bring a fresh perspective and innovative solutions to the table. By fostering a culture of inclusion, hospitality businesses can tap into an underutilized talent pool, improve team cohesion, and enhance workplace productivity.
Furthermore, the project emphasizes the importance of building empathy and understanding between neurodivergent and neurotypical staff. This collaboration can reduce stigma, promote mutual respect, and ultimately lead to more harmonious working relationships.
Looking Ahead
As the HOST Project moves forward, the development of the board game and training materials will continue to evolve, with the ultimate goal of delivering practical, impactful tools to the hospitality industry. By empowering managers to support neurodivergent individuals, the project aims to create more inclusive and innovative workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
The success of the 4th Transnational Partners' Meeting in the Netherlands marks another step toward achieving this vision, paving the way for a more inclusive, productive, and empathetic future in hospitality.