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Leaving their mark, carving their own path: Women associates at Marriott International Maldives

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March 8 is International Women’s Day – celebrated globally to mark the social, cultural, political, and economic achievements of women, but also designed to shine a spotlight on gender parity.

Across Marriott International, on this day, the women at Marriott International who help to shape the future, are celebrated with great pride. Having women in leadership positions is a vital part of Marriott International’s strategy for growth and success. The company is focused on advancing women in their management and executive ranks, gaining their loyalty as customers, creating economic opportunity as hotel owners, and including women-owned businesses in the supply chain.

On this occasion, Rivero Delgado, Area Vice President – Singapore, Malaysia & Maldives, Marriott International said, “We understand that companies with gender and culturally diverse employees are more likely to thrive in the global marketplace. The more diverse perspectives, skills, and backgrounds we have at the table, the better we will be as a company at innovating and driving business results. At Marriott International, we have been consciously taking steps to ensure that women have confidence in applying for any role that they want – and we encourage bringing on board associates regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnicity; we want everyone to feel able to apply for roles that they are suitable for.”

A few women associates from Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives shared what it’s like for a woman in the hospitality industry.

JW MARRIOTT MALDIVES RESORT & SPA

Women in Erstwhile Male Dominated Roles

Aminath, Chef de Partie – Shio

Chef Aminath is from the largest atoll in the world, Huvadhoo. She started her career as a customer service agent (front office) at the tender age of 17 and due to her young age, her company gave her the opportunity to get a scholarship to study hospitality at the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism (FHTS). Aminath is currently a Chef de Partie at Shio, the signature overwater grill restaurant at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa.

“Success is the small steps you take every day towards your main goal, it’s about discipline and consistency”, she says. “I am proud of my work at Shio, after a long time of learning the different sections of the kitchen, I can finally say that I am passionate about meat and grilling. It’s thrilling to see a beautiful steak get a golden crust and the sizzling sound. For me, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa has given me the opportunity to learn what I love most and improve my skills as a chef and create a memorable experience for the guests. If you see most picket houses around the world or in the Maldives, only men are featured because they associate grilling and barbecue with masculinity. Marriott International is redefining the norm by creating women-only picket houses and giving us the opportunity to showcase our skills to the world. As a final word, I would like to thank Marriott International, and the team at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa for giving me the opportunity to work at Shio and giving me the freedom to do what I love.”

When asked if she has a message for all the other women reading her story, she adds, “To all the women who want to consider cooking as their career, yes it’s not easy and yes we have a lot of things to fight against, but companies are changing, the world is changing, it’s easier than before and in the future, it will be even easier for women. All I can say is that it’s worth the fight.”

Nishidha, Engineering Coordinator

Nishidha Mesta was born and raised in India and holds a degree in IT. She has worked as an Engineering Coordinator for 7 years. She currently works as an Engineering Coordinator at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa.

“As a child, my growing up years were guided by my parents and as an adult, I trust my ability to navigate through space. I have learned to appreciate life in the moment. I feel good about the work I do, contributing to the team to make our brand the customer’s favorite. I always enjoy helping my team members at work, no matter what type of work it is. I am passionate about learning new things in the technical field.

Marriott International gives you the chance to grow and offers multiple opportunities. Working as the only woman in a male-oriented technical department and being appreciated for my efforts makes me proud every day. I am challenged to be better tomorrow than I am today. Empowering women is empowering humanity. The modern woman is no longer dependent. She is strong and confident. We must respect everyone, not because of their gender, but because of their own identity.”

W MALDIVES

Empowered Maldivians on empowering others

Fathimath Bishaara Mohamed, Whatever/Whenever Agent

After a couple of roles in the Food & Beverage department at various resorts, Bisha joined W Maldives as a Whatever/Whenever Agent, her first in Front Office (Welcome). “It’s a whole new experience and so far I’m enjoying it!” she says. “Working in a resort or the hospitality industry was never on my mind when I finished my studies. I started having interest when I was an apprentice. That’s when I decided this is the life I want to have and this what I chose as my career.

When asked about her thoughts on women empowerment she says, “I hear people always saying for girls working in resort is not a good idea. It’s always girls should stay at home. I don’t believe this. To be frank, a resort is a totally safe place to work and it’s flexible. It doesn’t matter if it’s a resort or not. Everyone should get a chance to fulfill their dream. Being an independent individual within your limit is one of the best feeling anybody will ever experience.”

Mariyam Risma, Demi Chef De Partie

Mariyam started working in the hospitality industry as an apprentice in 2013. Her first role was as a Steward and she worked in the same position for 9 months before moving to the kitchen. She is currently working at W Maldives as a DCDP and speaking of why she loves her role she says, “I am here to offer our guests an authentic Maldivian experience. I love experimenting with the local flavors to create a fusion version of the dishes. In 5 years I see myself running my own restaurant in my homeland so I can give opportunities to the younger generation to learn more about creating good food.”

When asked about how she empowers women, she says, “By being a cheerleader for them. By advocating female colleagues whenever there is a chance. Specially, supporting women-run businesses. Over these last 9 years in this industry, I have trained female colleagues in the kitchen. I always tell everyone it is very important to be independent and I always support woman to be independent and free.”

THE WESTIN MALDIVES MIRIANDHOO RESORT

Expatriate Women providing a Traditional Thakuru (Butler) Service

Laurie Cayla, Thakuru (Butler)

Laurie, from France, is a Butler at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. She graduated with an International Management Master Degree in tourism & hospitality and took advantage of her studies to expand the international dimension of her profile by working in several countries since the last 7 years. She has mainly been working in the luxury hospitality and airline industries.

“I applied to work as a Thakuru in Maldives for several reasons. First of all, I had been missing Maldives since I left the country 4 years ago. This country is unique and very different from what I have known so far, especially with it’s stunning landscape. I am always looking for unconventional experiences that can greatly enrich my overall knowledge and skill set. Being a Thakuru means embracing a customer facing role, the closest way to apprehend the guest relations. There is no routine, each and every day is different. It is a position that takes me outside my comfort zone and therefore makes me be proactive in learning.”

When speaking of the challenge of being a woman in a foreign country she says, “I do consider the island lifestyle in a Resort as a challenge, but in a positive manner. It is more than just a new job, it is a whole new life that has to be built around this work environment. A different way to live compared to the cities, a different culture, a new language and no points of reference. It can make one feel lonely sometimes, even though one is surrounded by an amazing crowd of caring people willing to make me feel home and safe. An expatriation requires a lot of understanding, patience and flexibility. Being both a woman and a foreigner is a double challenge, the aim is not only improving one’s professional skills but managing to be seen as valuable as anyone else.”

Daira Sedova, Thakuru (Butler)

Daria Sedova, from Moscow, Russia is a Butler at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort. She holds two diplomas in foreign languages and Marketing. As a student she got the experience of working at different international events and conferences and in 2018 she joined the Royal Caribbean cruise ship – that was how her international career began.

“I have always been so passionate to work with people, to make them happy, to solve their problems. I was looking forward to join an international team again, and as the Russian market in the Maldives has been growing, my language skills appeared to be a nice advantage. So I did my research and found a very exciting opportunity to become a part of the Marriott International family. For me to be a Thakuru means a lot, this is how I can grow and become more professional and open minded day by day. A butler has to communicate with all the departments to make sure everything is properly prepared and completed to ensure guest experiences are optimal. And it is a unique role, where you can put all your strength and talents to create unforgettable experiences and memories for people who chose our resort for their holidays, waiting to come to paradise.”

When speaking of the challenge of being a woman in a foreign country she says, “As I have already worked in the international community, for me to join the team is a new journey, but not a challenge. I am so proud and happy to arrive at the island and to get the best and warmest possible welcome. The main challenge for me is to cooperate with local men as we have differences in the culture, as a European lady, I have been raised in feminist time, so I am used to equality of gender. But now it is not a big difficulty, it only means that I have to work on myself and look deeper to understand new people and their mind sets”

SHERATON MALDIVES FULL MOON RESORT & SPA

Maldivian Women in Leadership Roles

Shalinee Ahmed, Market Director, Sales

Born in Maldives, Shalinee started off her 20 year long career at a communication company. As she believed that the best opportunities for employment and more importantly, personal growth lay in the midst of the hospitality industry she did not stop looking for them. She wanted to excel in everything she did and therefore, she wanted to join a company that could pave her way for that possibility. She kept actively looking for a position in a company that was known to be focused on their employees’ development. Sure enough, she was able to grasp an entry position in Universal Resorts as a Contracting Executive.

She eagerly started her journey at Universal Resorts and made her way up and build her 20-year long career with the company.

Her journey eventually led her to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa as a Market Director of Sales and she considers every step of the way that has led her to where she is today, to be a career highlight for her. All the small steps that were taken along the way – from her very first job in the hospitality industry, to all the experiences that she is able to carry till today, to all the wonderful people she has met from across the globe – are all career highlights for her.

As much as she loves her home in the beautiful islands, she has set different goals for her next step in her career. For her to broaden her experience in the hospitality field, she strives to seek her calling in a different destination.

She considers working at Sheraton Maldives Resort & Spa as already realising two of her goals. The style and way of operating is a learning curve as it would be for any new organisation that you would work for where under such circumstances personal growth would be inevitable. She is very pleased to be a part of such a wonderful organisation and considers the resort community to be very professional and accommodating.

When asked what it is like for a woman to be working in the hospitality industry she said, “It is challenging for women to be working in any industry and it is also encouraging for us women to see an increase in equal opportunities within the hospitality industry based on the skillset. This is an industry that can offer numerous opportunities in different areas to grow, both professionally and personally, from learning new skills to meeting people from different countries and cultures, which is a learning experience within itself. There are countless opportunities available where you can excel and grow.”

Shalinee’s formula for success in this industry is hard work, continual learning, adaptation to changes and perseverance.

Amara Shafeeq, Marketing & Communications Manager

A native to the beautiful islands of Maldives, Amara started her journey after moving to Malaysia at an early age. After spending a few years in boarding school at Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar, she moved to Kuala Lumpur for her further studies. Initially starting off with an undergraduate degree in International Business, a module in basic Marketing and the coursework that followed piqued her interest in Marketing Communications and she changed her major during her second year. This is where she discovered her creativity and natural flair for storytelling. Combining her passion for Marketing and love for the environment and conservation, she did her Bachelors dissertation on Waste Management and Recycling in Maldives; researching the lack of appropriate disposal methods in the country. Concluding her undergraduate studies, she made her way back to the motherland and got the chance to work as a Social Media Coordinator for the national Bank of Maldives, post which she moved to England for her further studies and found herself back in the islands again, in 2019.

Amara realized how truly vast the Marketing field was when she was back in the Maldives and searching for a suitable job. She wanted a job that allowed her to do what she loved whilst also being able to contribute to the environment and marine conservation. It did not take long for Amara to settle into her new environment at Sheraton Maldives and she quickly began to love everything about her job as the resort is highly focused on sustainability initiatives with their coral propagation program, plastic free initiatives, and water bottling. She was able to incorporate sustainability into her work, promoting the coral adoption program at the resort with media, making connections with likeminded people and building a rapport on a more international scale.

When asked about her career goals and what it is like for a woman working in the hospitality industry in the Maldives she said, “How important tourism is to the Maldives goes without saying. Being able to make use of my education and combine my passion for sustainability and conservation at my workplace and being able to make my contribution to the country I was born in is really rewarding. I am proud of myself and my journey. Since I am where I want to be at my career at this age I will continue to try to reach for the stars. I am truly blessed to have amazing, encouraging parents and to come from an incredibly supportive family with very strong female role models and knowing strong female colleagues as well. I have felt skeptical eyes on me when I first started working in the hospitality industry although not as bad as what I have heard other women face in this industry. My mum, my sister who always keeps me grounded, and my aunts are my biggest female inspiration. My family’s love, my mum’s unwavering support and encouragement, and my dad’s strong work ethics and discipline have shaped me into the person I am today. It brings me joy to see that more women, especially local women are finding their rightful place in this industry. I am a huge advocate for female empowerment, and I genuinely believe than women can move mountains. Having a strong and confident character goes a long way; people respect you if you really try to just be yourself and apply your skills and talent to the best of your abilities. Mindset is key; never letting someone else bring down your spirits and having confidence in yourself will take you farther than you ever think you could go.”

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Sea, sand, and Centara: Maldivian escape at Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa

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Located in South Ari Atoll, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, part of The Centara Collection, offers a retreat for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. With panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, a diverse choice of dining, an award-winning house reef, and a UNESCO-protected marine reserve nearby, guests are presented with opportunities to explore, discover new flavours, and enjoy moments of calm. The resort now extends exclusive savings and benefits through its Sea, Sand, & Centara offer, welcoming families and couples to plan their next Maldivian escape.

The property features 112 elegant beachfront and overwater villas that blend island character with contemporary design. Options range from the intimate Beach Villa, designed for couples, to the spacious Club Two Bedroom Beach Pool Villa, well suited for families or friends travelling together.

Guests can spend their days exploring the surrounding coral reefs and marine life. A short distance from the harbour channel lies the island’s notable attraction, the Shipwreck, where nurse sharks, stonefish, and schools of glassfish can be found. For alternative experiences, visitors may take a semi-submarine excursion, embark on a big game fishing trip, or explore the waters by kayak or paddleboard.

Wellness is also central to the resort experience, with SPA Cenvaree offering treatments that combine ancient Thai healing with modern techniques. Therapies range from massages to facials and holistic practices. A 200-year-old Banyan Tree nearby serves as a cultural and spiritual landmark, where guests are invited to join a mindful blessing ritual that connects them with nature.

Dining at the resort spans six restaurants and bars. Reef serves international breakfast buffets, Mare Azzuro offers Italian-inspired dishes, and Suan Bua presents Thai cuisine. Aqua provides a lagoon-side setting for evening drinks, while Coral Bar & Lounge offers a more casual atmosphere.

The Sea, Sand, & Centara offer provides guests with savings and additional benefits. CentaraThe1 members receive 45 per cent off flexible meal plan rates, while non-members receive 30 per cent. All guests enjoy a 30 per cent discount on seaplane transfers with a minimum stay of two to six nights. Overwater and Club Pool Villa guests are welcomed with handmade chocolates and fresh tropical fruit. Families benefit from a complimentary picnic lunch, while couples can enjoy a private three-course dinner on the beach. Guests may also enhance their stay with floating breakfasts, decorated beds on the first night, discounted water sports, spa treatments, and food and beverage offers. Children aged six and under stay and dine free of charge under their parents’ meal plan, with complimentary use of snorkelling gear, kayaks, and pedalos also included.

The booking and stay period for this promotion runs until 10 January 2026.

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Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives welcomes GCC families with Stay 3, Pay 2 offer

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Situated in the North Malé Atoll, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives offers a setting that combines family entertainment, adventure, and relaxation. The resort has been designed to provide memorable experiences for guests of all ages, with activities to enjoy, opportunities to relax, and plenty of ways for families to spend time together. A Stay 3, Pay 2 offer is currently available, providing every third night complimentary for guests planning their summer holidays.

Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is particularly popular among Emirati and GCC families, as every aspect of the resort has been developed with their needs in mind. Its accessibility from Dubai and other GCC cities, combined with a short speedboat transfer on arrival, ensures a seamless journey to the island. Accommodation options include beachfront rooms and overwater villas tailored to different family sizes. The Mirage Panoramic Room caters for families of four with bunk beds, a king-sized bed, a terrace, and an outdoor bathtub. Those seeking more space can choose the Mirage Overwater Sunset Villa, which includes a jacuzzi, or the Four-Bedroom Mirage Beach House, ideal for larger groups and offering direct views of the Indian Ocean.

The resort is part of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, an island destination featuring two distinct properties. Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is designed with a family focus, incorporating a playful, underwater-inspired theme, while its sister property, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, offers a more private retreat with fine dining and wellness facilities at SPA Cenvaree Retreat. Guests benefit from the combined offerings of both resorts, with opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and dining that reflect the warmth of Thai hospitality alongside Maldivian island living.

A key attraction is the award-winning SPA Cenvaree, which caters to both adults and children. Adults can choose from treatments such as traditional Thai massages and Ayurvedic therapies, while younger guests can enjoy the Candy Spa, which provides child-friendly options including facials, manicures, pedicures, and edible treatments.

Families can also take advantage of a large outdoor water complex, which includes swimming pools, a kids’ pool, a lazy river, and an aquatic playground. Supervised activities are available at the kids’ club, while teenagers have their own dedicated E-Zone. For those seeking adventure, the resort provides water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing, as well as snorkelling, diving excursions, and PADI-certified diving courses to explore nearby reefs.

Dining options are diverse, with a variety of restaurants offering international and regional cuisines. Guests can begin their day with breakfast at The Sailhouse, enjoy ice cream from Scoops, sample Italian dishes at Acqua, and end with a Thai dinner at Suan Bua. In addition, guests may choose dining packages such as Atollia Destination Half Board Plus, Full Board Plus, or All-Inclusive, which provide access to ten restaurants across the two properties.

This summer, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives is extending its Stay 3, Pay 2 offer, valid for bookings made until 30 September for stays up to 30 November. Guests are able to extend their holiday by paying for six nights and staying nine, or for four and staying six, providing additional time to enjoy the island’s beaches, water facilities, and spa. Accommodation includes 145 villas, whether located on the beach or over water, each equipped with a private outdoor bathtub, jacuzzi, or pool.

The offer comes with conditions: the stay must be under the same guest’s name and cannot be transferred, CentaraThe1 membership benefits and other promotions do not apply, and the offer cannot be combined with vouchers or exchanged for cash. For families from the GCC region and beyond, this promotion represents an opportunity to extend their holiday while making the most of the resort’s activities and services.

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THE OZEN COLLECTION marks four years of partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo

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THE OZEN COLLECTION has marked four years of partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo, the Tenerife-based winery recognised for reviving nearly-lost grape varieties from the Canary Islands. For more than three decades, the winery’s vineyards, cultivated in volcanic soils, have preserved traditional winemaking heritage, a philosophy that aligns with THE OZEN COLLECTION’s focus on authentic, terroir-inspired experiences. The collaboration extends beyond seasonal events, with Bodegas Viñátigo’s wines available year-round through THE OZEN COLLECTION’s holiday programmes: the RESERVE™ Plan at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and the INDULGENCE™ Plan at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO.

Winemaker Juan Jesús Méndez reflected on the collaboration, stating: “THE OZEN COLLECTION has become an integral chapter in our story. Over these years, we have developed a deep understanding of their vision and clientele. To see our wines travel from Tenerife’s volcanic soils to the Maldives’ shores has been extraordinary. The enthusiasm of guests and connoisseurs continues to inspire us to create new expressions and strengthen this valued partnership.”

Celebrations will begin at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 24 to 26 November, featuring an evening at the underwater restaurant M6m, a dinner at TRADITION PEKING, and a sundowner at HUDHU BAY Beach Club, where guests can enjoy Bodegas Viñátigo wines against the backdrop of the Maldivian sunset.

From 28 to 30 November, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will host events at ORIGINƎ, a Canary-Asian fusion dining experience at SOYI, and sunset wine gatherings on the beach, designed to highlight rare Canary Islands vintages and encourage interaction between guests and winemakers.

These curated events provide opportunities for guests to meet the winemakers, learn about their craft, and experience food pairings that enhance each wine’s character. Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, commented: “Canary Wine transcends simple consumption; it forges connections between people and cultures. Our partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo, who produce some of the most distinctive wines that even captivated Shakespeare, has significantly enriched our offerings. It has also elevated guest experiences and contributed to our wine programme receiving notable recognition and awards.”

THE OZEN COLLECTION continues to offer curated wine experiences throughout the year, including pairing dinners and sommelier-led tastings. Travellers can explore these vintages while benefitting from 25% savings on direct bookings, combining luxury with value.

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