Business
Maldives Travel Awards honour 10 outstanding tourism personalities
Maldives Travel Awards – People’s Edition, the first event held this year under the Maldives Travel Awards platform, has recognised 10 individuals for their immense contributions to the development of the Maldives tourism industry.
Nominations for the People’s Edition were open till June 30 from any individual with at least five years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. Third parties were also allowed to submit nominations on behalf of eligible individuals.
Ten winners, individually referred to as Tourism Personality of the Year, were selected by a panel of veteran judges from sectors across the industry, and announced at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Gala Night at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi Thursday evening.
Here are the winners:
Aminath Mamshooga
In a career spanning over 24 years, Mamshooga has become one of the most courteous sales representatives in the aviation industry, having worked at the then Maldives’ flagship carrier Air Maldives and leading international airline Emirates. Now a marketing representative for Turkish Airlines, Mamshooga has studied from various institutions, including the prestigious Emirates Aviation College, and is involved in training sales representatives to ensure top notch customer service.
Yousuf Riffath
A visionary that saw the potential of Maldives as a leading travel destination in its hay day, Riffath founded Capital Travel and Tours, one of the most successful tour operators in the country. In a career spanning over 35 years, Riffath has been involved in founding and leading MATATO and Liveaboard Association of Maldives (LAM), and has served as the President of the Maldives Chapter of American Society of Travel Agents and the Association of Travel Agents. He has also contributed to the growth of the industry as a Board Director of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC).
Hussain ‘Sendi’ Rasheed
A name synonymous with Maldives’ diving industry, Sendi has trained over 1,600 divers in his three decades of service. Being the first and only PADI Dive Course Director in the country, Sendi is a pioneering force in developing several industry standards, including the National Diving Regulations. He has also been involved in developing the Coastguard Diving Unit, the first locally-owned dive centre at a resort and the Marine Faculty of Villa College where he served as the dean for two years.
Rasa Sangheran
A Sri Lankan born Chartered Accountant, Rasa serves as the Director of Finance at One&Only Reethi Rah, one of the finest resorts in the Maldives. In his 15-year long service to the Maldives’ tourism industry, Rasa has made Reethi Rah the most tax compliant resort in the Maldives. He has also taken several notable steps to empower both local and expat employees, including changes to the minimum wage and average service charge, and equal pension benefits for all employees at Reethi Rah.
Qaisar Naseem
A beacon of hope for aspiring local hospitality executives, Qaisar has climbed up the ranks from a receptionist to become one of the few local General Managers in the industry. A school dropout, Qaisar, while leading Paradise Island Resort, has earned post-graduate education in hotel management and business. He has won several local and international recognitions for his leadership and dedication to teamwork, including the award for the Best General Manager in Indian Ocean by World Luxury Hotel Awards.
Renato W. Chizzola
A global hospitality leader, Renato serves as the General Manager of Cheval Blanc Randheli as well as the Vice President of Operations, Asia and the Middle East for Cheval Blanc, LVMH Hotel Management. He has helped Randheli achieve the highest RevPAR, LQA score and service charge in the region. Renato, whose previous experiences in the Maldives include serving as the General Manager of Constance Halaveli, has won several accolades, including the Friendliest General Manager award by Traveller Made, Science of Talent by Talent Plus and a Personal Recognition award by Entrée Travel Publiction.
Ibrahim ‘Don’ Ali
Since starting his career in 1979 at the age of 17 as an office cleaner in Baros Maldives, Ali has overseen the development and renovation of several tourist facilities in the Maldives, including the construction of resorts from scratch. A self-taught man except for a few short courses abroad, Ali was appointed General Manager of Mookai Hotel and Mookai Suites in capital Male in 2013, after overseeing their development.
Abdul Rasheed ‘Absy’ Ali
A voice loved by Maldivians and tourists alike, Absy has dedicated most part of his four-decade long entertainment career to promoting the Maldives’ culture amongst tourists. A founder of popular bands ‘Amazon Jade’, ‘20 th Century BC’ and ‘Out of Door Maldives’, Absy has released a solo studio album which has sold over 1,600 copies to tourists. He continues to perform two regular gigs a week with Out of Door Maldives, entertaining tourists and helping them connect with the local culture and lifestyle.
Ali Rasheed
A computer programmer by training, Ali bumped into the hospitality industry by accident while developing the reservations and sales software for Paradise Island Resort in 1995. In his capacity as the Director of Marketing and Sales at the Marketing and Operations Department of leading local resort operator Villa Hotels, he is now responsible for overseeing the daily operations and marketing requirements of five resorts in the Villa portfolio. Ali has also contributed to the growth of the industry as a former Executive Board Member of Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) and Maldives Tourism Advisory Council at the Ministry of Tourism.
Zeenaz Hussain
An educator and mentor, Zeenaz pursued a career in the kitchen at the Paradise Island Resort right after completing her studies at the Hotel School (now known as the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies). While working in the industry, Zeenas instructed at the Institute of Hotel and Catering Services as a trainee food production instructor before taking her first teaching job at the Hotel School in 1997. Since then she has been instrumental in producing the future generations of hospitality executives, which led to her appointment as the Dean of the Faculty in 2011.
Initiated in 2012 by MATATO, Maldives Travel Awards celebrate and honour the best tourism and hospitality products in the Maldives, while fostering relationships with suppliers and local travel agents. From 20 categories in 2012, the awards have now expanded into three editions totalling 55 categories.
In 2016, the awards saw unprecedented judging transparency with a service agreement signed with KPMG to tally the final results. A record number of nominations were also received with the grand gala in Olhuveli Beach and Spa resort attended by dignitaries from relevant government authorities and the tourism industry.
This year, MATATO has for the first time branched out the prestigious awards into three categories; the People’s Edition, which recognises successful pioneers and long serving individuals in the tourism industry, a Guesthouse Edition, which celebrates the outstanding performance of the up and coming guesthouse sector, and the Grand Gala, which is exclusive for winners in the categories for resorts, airlines and liveaboards.
The Guesthouse Edition will take place in capital Male in September with the Grand Gala following in November.
The non-profit will also combine the Grand Gala with the travel conference happening a day before at Bandos Island Resort, bringing an international audience of industry experts.
Business
Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024 to host panel on leveraging Maldives’ unique selling points
The Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024, scheduled to take place on September 19 at CROSSROADS Maldives, will include a panel discussion, titled ‘Leveraging the Maldives’ Unique Selling Points.’ This session at the GM Forum, the largest gathering of hospitality professionals in Maldives, will focus on how the Maldives can maintain its position in the competitive luxury travel market by capitalising on its unique attributes.
The panel will be moderated by Aishath Ihuma, Director of Business Development at Reollo Investments. The discussion will feature a diverse group of experienced professionals from the hospitality industry, including:
- Rajesh Mehta, Chief Business Officer of Ooredoo Maldives
- Ibrahim Inad, Director of Sales & Marketing, Oaga Resorts
- Alexander Treager, General Manager of SAii Lagoon
- Andrew Jansson, Cluster General Manager of Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives and Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives
The session aims to address several key questions surrounding the Maldives’ position as a luxury destination. Panelists will discuss what they believe are the top three unique selling points (USPs) of the Maldives, and how the country can differentiate itself from other luxury destinations within the Indian Ocean and beyond.
The discussion will cover marketing strategies for resorts to effectively showcase their unique offerings to attract high-end travellers, including the role of digital marketing. The panelists will share insights into the unique experiences and services that set their respective resorts apart and how they align with the luxury expectations of their clientele.
The session will also explore the challenges faced by resorts in maintaining and promoting their USPs and how the Maldives can overcome these challenges to continue attracting luxury travellers. Looking ahead, the panelists will discuss emerging trends in luxury travel and how the Maldives can adapt to stay ahead of the competition.
The discussion will conclude with closing remarks from the panelists, followed by an interactive Q&A session with the audience. This panel promises to provide valuable insights into how the Maldives can continue to thrive as a premier luxury destination.
This year’s GM Forum, now in its eighth edition, will focus on ‘The Evolving Luxury Landscape’ in the Maldives. Industry leaders will discuss the future of luxury travel, including the new luxury traveller’s psyche, digital marketing, and sustainable practices. Topics will cover private islands, underwater experiences, and the opportunities and challenges faced by hoteliers in the country. The forum will feature diverse panels and interactive sessions, emphasising personalised guest experiences and local cultural integration. It aims to foster active participation and share innovative case studies from the luxury travel industry.
Sponsors and partners of GM Forum 2024 include:
- Ooredoo Maldives: Digital Partner (Title Sponsor)
- Bestbuy Maldives (BBM): Silver Sponsor
- Dhivehi Insurance: Silver Sponsor
- Fuel Supplies Maldives: Silver Sponsor
- Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL): Silver Sponsor
- Manta Air: Aviation Partner
- Male’ Aerated Water Company: Beverage Partner
- Atmosphere Wellness: Wellness Partner
- Souvenir Marine: Transport Partner
- Printlab: Printing Partner
- CROSSROADS Maldives: Venue Partner
- Lights Out: Coverage Partner
- Associate Sponsors: Alia Investments, Villa Hakatha, GAGE, Wyntronix, Uniforms Unlimited and Spa Ceylon Maldives
John Bevan, CEO of dnata Travel Group, will be the keynote speaker at the event.
Etienne Ng, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Weixin Pay; Malik Mohamed, Director of Business Intelligence at Pulse Hotels & Resorts; Mohamed Jailam, CEO and Managing Director of technology company Javaabu and Co-Founder of DhivehiGPT; and, Mohamed Mihad, Chief Commercial Officer at Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) will also be featured speakers.
The Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024, scheduled to take place on September 19 at CROSSROADS Maldives, will include a panel discussion titled, ‘Redefining the Luxury Travel Experience.’ The session at the GM Forum, the largest gathering of hospitality professionals in Maldives, will explore the evolving landscape of luxury travel, examining how luxury experiences are being redefined to meet the changing expectations of travellers.
The panel will be moderated by Reena Abdul Wahid, Communications Strategist at the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI). The discussion will feature insights from key figures in the travel sector, including:
- Solah Mohamed, Chief Operating Officer of Crown & Champa Resorts
- Abdulla Ghiyas, Chairman of Visit Maldives and President of the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO)
- Ashwin Handa, Senior Vice President – Operations at Atmosphere Core
- Enver Arslan, Area General Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING
The panel will begin by addressing the definition of luxury in today’s travel industry, with a focus on the key elements that distinguish a luxury travel experience from a standard one. The discussion will also cover the latest trends in luxury travel, including how technological advancements are influencing the sector.
Personalisation will be a significant topic, with panellists sharing examples of how their resorts are personalising guest experiences. The discussion will also delve into the alignment of luxury travel with sustainable practices, including initiatives implemented by the resorts to promote sustainability without compromising on luxury.
The challenges in maintaining and enhancing luxury standards will be another critical focus area, particularly in the context of meeting diverse expectations from guests of different cultural backgrounds. The session will conclude with panellists sharing their vision for the future of luxury travel and discussing how the Maldives can continue to position itself as a top luxury travel destination.
In the closing segment, panellists will offer advice to emerging luxury travel destinations looking to establish themselves in the market. They will also explore how industry stakeholders can collaborate to elevate the overall luxury travel experience in the Maldives. The session will include a Q&A segment, allowing the audience to engage with the panellists.
This year’s GM Forum, now in its eighth edition, will focus on ‘The Evolving Luxury Landscape’ in the Maldives. Industry leaders will discuss the future of luxury travel, including the new luxury traveller’s psyche, digital marketing, and sustainable practices. Topics will cover private islands, underwater experiences, and the opportunities and challenges faced by hoteliers in the country. The forum will feature diverse panels and interactive sessions, emphasising personalised guest experiences and local cultural integration. It aims to foster active participation and share innovative case studies from the luxury travel industry.
Sponsors and partners of GM Forum 2024 include:
- Ooredoo Maldives: Digital Partner (Title Sponsor)
- Bestbuy Maldives (BBM): Silver Sponsor
- Dhivehi Insurance: Silver Sponsor
- Fuel Supplies Maldives: Silver Sponsor
- Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL): Silver Sponsor
- Manta Air: Aviation Partner
- Male’ Aerated Water Company: Beverage Partner
- Atmosphere Wellness: Wellness Partner
- Souvenir Marine: Transport Partner
- Printlab: Printing Partner
- CROSSROADS Maldives: Venue Partner
- Lights Out: Coverage Partner
- Associate Sponsors: Alia Investments, Villa Hakatha, GAGE, Wyntronix, Uniforms Unlimited and Spa Ceylon Maldives
John Bevan, CEO of dnata Travel Group, will be the keynote speaker at the event.
Etienne Ng, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Weixin Pay; Malik Mohamed, Director of Business Intelligence at Pulse Hotels & Resorts; Mohamed Jailam, CEO and Managing Director of technology company Javaabu and Co-Founder of DhivehiGPT; and, Mohamed Mihad, Chief Commercial Officer at Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) will also be featured speakers.
Business
Rajesh Mehta of Ooredoo to speak on hospitality efficiency at Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024
Rajesh Mehta, Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Maldives, is set to deliver a presentation at the Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2024, scheduled to take place on September 19 at CROSSROADS Maldives.
His presentation, titled ‘Managed Solutions: The Future of Hospitality Efficiency,’ will address the role of managed solutions in enhancing operational efficiency within the hospitality industry.
“As the digital partner of the GM Forum 2024, we are excited to share our insights on how managed services are transforming the hospitality industry. In today’s evolving luxury landscape, technology is at the heart of delivering personalised, seamless, and memorable guest experiences. I look forward to discussing how Ooredoo Maldives is empowering hotels and resorts with innovative ICT solutions that drive efficiency and enhance service delivery, setting new standards in luxury travel,” said Rajesh Mehta, Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Maldives.
Ali Naafiz, Editor of Hotelier Maldives, commented on Mehta’s participation: “Rajesh Mehta’s presentation this year as well will provide valuable insights into how managed solutions can contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of the hospitality sector. The GM Forum continues to be a platform for such important discussions that impact the future of the industry.”
This year’s GM Forum, now in its eighth edition, will focus on ‘The Evolving Luxury Landscape’ in the Maldives. Industry leaders will discuss the future of luxury travel, including the new luxury traveller’s psyche, digital marketing, and sustainable practices. Topics will cover private islands, underwater experiences, and the opportunities and challenges faced by hoteliers in the country. The forum will feature diverse panels and interactive sessions, emphasising personalised guest experiences and local cultural integration. It aims to foster active participation and share innovative case studies from the luxury travel industry.
Sponsors and partners of GM Forum 2024 include:
- Ooredoo Maldives: Digital Partner (Title Sponsor)
- Bestbuy Maldives (BBM): Silver Sponsor
- Dhivehi Insurance: Silver Sponsor
- Fuel Supplies Maldives: Silver Sponsor
- Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL): Silver Sponsor
- Manta Air: Aviation Partner
- Male’ Aerated Water Company: Beverage Partner
- Atmosphere Wellness: Wellness Partner
- Souvenir Marine: Transport Partner
- Printlab: Printing Partner
- CROSSROADS Maldives: Venue Partner
- Lights Out: Coverage Partner
- Associate Sponsors: Alia Investments, Villa Hakatha, GAGE, Wyntronix, Uniforms Unlimited and Spa Ceylon Maldives
John Bevan, CEO of dnata Travel Group, will be the keynote speaker at the event.
Etienne Ng, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Weixin Pay; Malik Mohamed, Director of Business Intelligence at Pulse Hotels & Resorts; Mohamed Jailam, CEO and Managing Director of technology company Javaabu and Co-Founder of DhivehiGPT; and, Mohamed Mihad, Chief Commercial Officer at Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) will also be featured speakers.
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