Skål Sydney Networking Lunch with Guest speaker Kris Phadungkiatipong, Country Director – Oceania from Meet Hawai'i

Join us at The Apprentice Restaurant for a wonderful two-course meal prepared by TAFE NSW students. 

We are also privileged to have Kris Phadungkiatipong, Country Director – Oceania from Meet Hawai'i, as our guest speaker. 

Kris began his journey in travel and tourism at the Grand Hyatt Erawan in Bangkok. Since relocating to Sydney in 2006, Kris has developed a deep passion for the industry through roles with global hospitality leaders including Marriott, Accor, and Hyatt.

Today, Kris is proud to represent Meet Hawai‘i—a collaboration between the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) and the Hawai‘i Convention Center (HCC), under the direction of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA). Together, they work to position the Hawaiian Islands as a premier, world-class destination for business meetings, conventions, and incentive programs. In his role, Kris shares the aloha spirit across Australia and New Zealand, connecting with clients and industry partners to drive business events to Hawai‘i. Kris is passionate about building strong relationships and creating meaningful experiences that bring value to both our partners and the destination.

Skal International Sydney is once again proud to support The Apprentice Restaurant.

The Apprentice Restaurant at TAFE NSW Ultimo offers a distinctive dining experience where hospitality students apply their classroom learning in a real-world setting. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students manage all aspects of the restaurant—from culinary preparation to front-of-house service—providing them with comprehensive, hands-on training. This immersive environment allows students to develop practical skills, adapt to the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry, and receive immediate feedback from both mentors and patrons. Guests not only enjoy thoughtfully prepared meals but also contribute to the professional growth of future chefs and hospitality professionals.