Hays Travel has welcomed three interns from Morocco to its head office as part of its three-year partnership agreement with charity Education for All.

Soukaina Ait Ahmed (22), Yousra Ait Tizgui (23) and Loubna Imouahden (20) are midway through their six-week stay in Sunderland. 

The internships were set up after the agency chain’s owner, Dame Irene Hays, met with Education for All in Morocco in September 2022. 

The trio have already spent time working in the Recruitment, People Services, and Learning and Development departments. 

They are currently out in Hays Travel’s Sunderland branches and will also get to spend time with the company’s social media team.

Soukaina, who is a Business Management graduate, said: “This has been a once in a lifetime experience for us. It has just been incredible.

“I have really enjoyed spending time in People Services.” 

But it hasn’t all been about work. The interns have experienced some of the best attractions the north east has to offer.

Loubna, who studies English Literature, said: “There are many differences between the UK and Morocco, mainly the weather and the architecture. 

“We have enjoyed visiting Beamish [history] Museum and we saw Hamilton at the Sunderland Empire theatre. 

“I am really looking forward to visiting London and York for the Harry Potter attractions. We are also going on a cruise ship next week.” 

The interns, who are from the Marrakech area, all hope to forge careers in the travel industry.

Yousra, who has studied law, said: “I have worked with Intrepid Travel and worked in a travel agency part time. It is perfect for me.

“This has been a big step for me, but I am so happy I have taken the chance.”

Soukaina added: “I am really thankful for this experience. I have studied Business Management so It has been great to see how a big company works. 

“I hope to have a career in tourism and promote my village. My brother also recently started in tourism so hopefully I can help him.”

Loubna said: “I have enjoyed learning about British culture. This will really help me if I want to study a master’s degree. 

“I would really like to work as a guide. A job where I can communicate with people.”

Leanne Cox, Hays Travel’s head of Learning and Development, said: “We are delighted to welcome Loubna, Soukaina and Yousra to our head office in Sunderland. 

“They have done a fantastic job so far. One of our key ambitions as an organisation is to support young people. This programme, now in its third year, is a great example of that commitment. 

“Our previous interns gained great experience during their placements at Hays Travel and we look forward to following the careers of Loubna, Soukaina and Yousra as they progress.