Sysco LABS hosts 2nd Annual AHRP Immersion Program for aspiring HR professionals

Participants of the immersion program with the Sysco LABS People Operations team after their final session

Participants of the immersion program with representatives from AHRP and Sysco LABS 

Sysco LABS, the Global In-House Centre for Sysco, partnered with the Association of HR Professionals (AHRP) Sri Lanka to host the second Annual ‘Immersion Program’, an immersive experience for selected students conducted by leading companies in Sri Lanka. 

It provided industry exposure, networking, valuable HR insights for future careers, a practical understanding of theoretical concepts, and a firsthand experience of various corporate cultures through extensive industry visits. 

Students from the Universities of Sri Jayewardenepura, Colombo, Kelaniya, and Peradeniya spent two days at Sysco LABS, immersing themselves in the world of technology and exploring people practices specific to the IT industry. The program covered various HR and corporate culture topics, including HR expectations, company culture, career paths, etiquette, and more. With engaging activities like an escape room and exposure into areas like resource management, data analytics, and VR testing, the program also offered insights into talent acquisition and technical interviews in the IT industry, as well as sessions on social media, professional branding, and HR business expectations.

Sysco LABS Director of People Operations Rehan Anthonis said: “The IT industry is one of the leading sectors globally and is emerging as an important economic contributor in Sri Lanka. Sysco LABS is passionate about capacity building, and inspiring young leaders. The Immersion Program is an opportunity for students to gain exposure to the inner workings and people management processes of the IT sector. We were pleased with the highly favourable responses from student participants, with more than 80% expressing that they found the program both insightful and educational. We are also looking forward to extending this partnership with AHRP into the future, participating in all immersion programs organised by the body this year as well.”

Brandix and John Keells Holdings were the other organisations in partnership with AHRP for the ‘Immersion Program’, providing participants with important exposure to the workings of different industries. In addition to the in-depth sessions that students were taken through, Sysco LABS also organised special activities to teach them important lessons on collaboration and synergy. It’s a reflection of Sysco LABS’ commitment to holistic and mindful development of talent.