Mr Ahdar (18) has been awarded the 2011 Queenstown Resort College Diploma of Hospitality Management Scholarship, to study a qualification he hopes will take him around the world.
"The hotel and hospitality industry is so vibrant, it is one of the biggest export earners for many countries, and I think it would be an amazing industry to be part of," he said yesterday.
"It's got everything - excitement, travel, the chance to meet people, a new challenge very day - so it's great to get the chance to get a start in it."
Tourism and hospitality head Harvey Bourne said Mr Ahdar impressed the judging panel with his professional attitude and his knowledge and understanding of the industry.
They were also impressed with his full understanding of customer service - something Mr Ahdar hoped to turn into a stellar career.
The recent recipient of a 2010 TrustPower Community Spirit Award was looking forward to studying without a big student loan and was determined to make his "great chance" count.
"I want to be the general manager of a top, five-star hotel, maybe somewhere like the Gold Coast or preferably in Hawaii.
"That would be the best of all worlds."
