Dear prospective student,
It was my employer who first came up with the idea of sending me to butler school to learn the finer points of service, house management, and etiquette and protocol. Originally from the Philippines, I am the head butler for the Royal family in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. My wife and children live with me here in the Palace. However, you would think that after three years in this fabulous job, I would have the necessary skills and knowledge to do this job properly. Well, this is only partly true. Something was missing.
After much research, my employer and I decided on The International Butler Academy (TIBA) in The Netherlands. Without knowing too much about this school, it became clear that TIBA was by far the most professional school we could find. The various letters of reference were compelling and real, unlike much information on other school websites I researched.
The training program I joined ran from September to November 2009. The memories and experiences are still fresh to me. Choosing TIBA was the correct and only possible choice. As a graduate, I can now guarantee that The International Butler Academy is a wonderful school worth every penny of your or your employer's money. The eight weeks of training were rigid and intense, completely pushing me out of my boundaries without limitations. TIBA's standards are truly amazing and almost unbelievable. TIBA guides its students to the highest value of the butler profession, no matter if you are experienced or completely new to the profession. All will become professional butlers.
I would like to extend my greatest gratitude to TIBA's Chairman for his marvelous dedication and effort for all of us and for sharing with us his professionalism. To the Executive Director for her wonderful thoughts, graciousness, savoir-faire, poise, and elegance that I truly adored. To the instructors for stretching me beyond my capabilities and for the very detailed and highly organized approach. Last but not least, a big thank you to TIBA's head butler for giving me hope, inspiration, and energy. His insights and talents I admired. He is an ultra-professional and an example for all of us.
TIBA made me part of a real working household and allowed me to experience a spectacular, memorable, and wonderful world of butlers that I could not have imagined, not even in my dreams. TIBA made it happen. It feels like my destiny to have become a proud graduate of The International Butler Academy. So, with my experience of working as a butler in a Royal household, what was I missing? Answer: "The real meaning of the True Art of Service." Oh yes, plus a million other things!
Sincerely, Jupiter Suarez - Philippines
Graduate of the International Butler Academy - November 2009