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Celebrating women in hospitality: Inspiring stories from female associates at Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio resorts in Maldives

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Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives is proud to celebrate International Women’s Day by honouring the women associates who play an essential role in shaping the future of the hospitality industry. Marriott International recognises the contributions that women make and is committed to supporting their growth and development. Women hold key leadership positions in Marriott International Maldives, and this year, we are delighted to share inspiring stories of some of the talented and dedicated women who work across the company’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives.

Rivero Delgado, Area Vice President – Singapore, Malaysia & Maldives, Marriott International, said, “At Marriott International, we value diversity and equality, and we have a strong commitment to promoting women in leadership positions. From leading teams to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, women are making a significant impact on our business and the hospitality industry as a whole. We are committed to ensuring that women have the confidence to apply for any role they want, and we encourage everyone to feel able to apply for roles that they are suitable for, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or ethnicity.”

Itha, waitress at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

Itha loves to deliver excellent customer service and boasts her strength is her interpersonal skills which the company allows her to showcase. Her favourite part of the job is assisting customers with their food selections. Itha believes in the company’s commitment to providing great customer service, and she sees this as an opportunity to learn and grow. Itha’s best experience with a valued guest was when she met a lovely couple celebrating their honeymoon. She surprised them by creating special table decorations with the letters of their names for their dinner. They were touched and told Itha, “We will never forget this in our lives.” Itha advises future female waitresses never to underestimate the power of a smile.

Gordana, Kids Club Manager at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa 

Gordana with over 20 years of experience working with children and youth. She oversees the care, hospitality, and service provided to the young guests at the FAMiLY by JW Little Griffins’ Kids Club during their stay and manages youth activities, babysitting, and special events. Gordana finds joy in seeing a smile on both the kids’ and parents’ faces and believes there is no picture as beautiful as smiling, bright-eyed, happy children. One of her favourite experiences involved a family who visited the resort and became good friends to the extent that they are still in touch. Their 3 year old son came every day and every time he came he gave her a big hug and told her he loved her. For women interested in working in hospitality, Gordana believes it’s a unique job that allows personal and professional growth and the chance to meet people from all over the world.

Wong Min Sin (Jess), the Pastry Chef at W Maldives

Jess is a woman of exceptional talent with an unwavering commitment to excellence. With her infectious smile and can-do attitude, she embodies the spirit of the W brand. She started her career at a young age, and her experiences in different hotels have honed her skills and expertise in the culinary field. Her inspirations are her mom and aunt who love to make sweets. Jess believes in treating everyone equally, and states that W Maldives provides her with the freedom to be herself. Her advice to other female talents is to be independent and strong. Jess’ career aspirations include becoming an Executive Pastry Chef or opening her own pastry shop or restaurant. Her passion and positivity are a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication, and that your dreams are always within reach.

Fritzel Gantuangko, Human Resources Manager at W Maldives

Fritzel started her career as a Chef, breaking through barriers as the only woman in the kitchen, and quickly becoming a valuable member of the team as the Chef’s secretary. Her commitment to excellence and hard work earned her an opportunity to work in the Maldives, and later transition to HR. Over the years, Fritzel has continued to grow her career, moving up the ranks to her current role as HR Manager at W Maldives. Despite the challenges that come with being a woman in the hospitality industry, Fritzel has persevered, and her passion for the industry has only grown stronger. She is a firm believer in building strong relationships and maintaining a positive attitude, and is always willing to help others. For young girls joining the industry, Fritzel has some inspiring words of advice: Believe in yourself, embrace challenges, build relationships, and pursue your passion with unwavering determination.

Ashinie Weerasinghe, Quality, Learning & Development Manager at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Her journey began when she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance at Flinders University in Australia. As a part-time job, she started waitressing and ventured into hospitality, realizing that it was her true passion. She completed an advanced diploma in hospitality with William Angliss, Australia, and landed an internship at the Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa in Sri Lanka, where her love for the industry deepened. During her internship, Ashinie was offered a position as a front office associate, and one week later, she was offered the position of training coordinator, where she was told that there won’t be a manager, but she will be heading the training department. It was a significant challenge that she had never imagined, but she decided to take the opportunity and give it her best shot. With determination and hard work, Ashinie excelled and found her stepping stone to Human Resources and training. As a Quality, Learning & Development Manager at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Ashinie encourages women to embrace diverse perspectives and to push boundaries to achieve their goals. She believes that women should not let their gender define them or hinder their input, reminding them that they have earned their place at the table and deserve it. For those aspiring to join the hospitality industry, Ashinie reminds us that it is changing, and the opportunities are endless. She encourages everyone to challenge themselves, keep pushing towards their ultimate goal, and never let obstacles or setbacks define them. Her message is clear: with perseverance, self-belief, and a willingness to learn and grow, anything is possible. 

Ashiyath Shurufa, Guest Service Agent at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Shurufa always been passionate about the hospitality industry. Despite facing societal judgement and gender stereotypes, she never let them get in the way of her dreams. Her career journey began with internships at Capital Travel and Sun Siyam Olhuveli, where she honed her skills in customer service and guest satisfaction. As a Guest Service Agent, Ashiyath provides assistance to all guests, administering check-ins and checkouts, processing payments and billing, and promptly attending to guest phone calls and messages to accommodate their exact needs and requirements. For Ashiyath, the hospitality industry is not just a job, it’s a thrilling experience where she faces different challenges and learns something new every day. She is proud to work alongside female leaders in the industry who motivate her to reach for the stars. Ashiyath’s message to young girls is to never let societal judgement or gender stereotypes get in the way of their dreams. With self-belief and determination, they can achieve anything they set their minds to in the hospitality industry.

Tanaya Dasgupta, Reservations Manager at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort 

Tanaya began her journey 14 years ago in Kolkata (India). Over the years, she has worked in Guest Relations, and her passion for hospitality took her to different brands and hotels within the Marriott International portfolio, including The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Hotels. Tanaya’s journey has been a testament to the opportunities offered to female associates at Marriott International. Tanaya believes in equality and empowerment in the workplace. She is committed to developing her team members, focusing solely on their professional performance and skills, irrespective of their gender.

Ika Khasanah, Spa Manager at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort

Ika began her hospitality career at the age of 19 in Bali (Indonesia). Ika has dedicated over 10 years of her life to the wellness field, and she believes hospitality is not just a career, but a way of life that has allowed her to grow personally and professionally while traveling the world. She cherishes the freedom and mobility that comes with her job, which has allowed her to meet new people and create unforgettable memories for guests and herself. Ika is inspired by Marriott International’s commitment to women’s empowerment and admires the number of female senior leaders who serve as role models for her and others in the company.

Marriott International congratulates women across the globe and reaffirms its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. We hope that the inspiring stories of these women will inspire and empower the next generation of women leaders in hospitality.

Entertainment

Game on! Kandima unveils Maldives’ most exciting all-ages entertainment hub

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Kandima Maldives, the bold lifestyle resort known for redefining island getaways, has once again raised the bar with the launch of PlaySpace – an all-ages entertainment destination transforming the leisure landscape of the Maldives.

Centrally located within the island resort, PlaySpace blends nostalgic retro flair with cutting-edge fun, offering a dynamic mix of activities for families, thrill-seekers, and social guests alike. From action-packed bowling and immersive virtual reality to escape room challenges and private karaoke sessions, the venue strengthens Kandima’s position as the Maldives’ leading active lifestyle destination.

According to Dermot Birchall, General Manager at Kandima Maldives, “At Kandima, we’re constantly evolving the island experience. PlaySpace adds a new dimension – it’s immersive, social, and above all, wildly entertaining.”

Key Highlights of PlaySpace Include:

  • Bowling Lanes with a Twist: Themed experiences such as Team Challenge, Date Night Deluxe, and Family Blitz, complemented by snacks, drinks, and curated playlists.
  • Karaoke & Cocktails: Private singing rooms paired with wine, beer, or bubbly under the Karaoke & Cocktails Package.
  • VR & Arcade Zone: Thrilling VR adventures, air hockey, billiards, and timeless arcade classics.
  • Escape Rooms: Brain-teasing challenges for up to three guests – ideal for team bonding or friendly competition.
  • Eats & Treats: A variety of gourmet snacks including paninis and mini pizzas, plus refreshing beverages like Tropical Dreamscape and Lychee Breeze – all alcohol-free.

With its vibrant 80s-inspired design and bold approach to leisure, PlaySpace perfectly reflects Kandima’s playful luxury ethos. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, it promises guests a unique and energetic addition to their island stay.

Adding to the excitement, Kandima has also introduced Fast Track, the Maldives’ first and only oceanfront e-go-kart circuit. Spanning 500 metres with 10 turns and speeds reaching up to 80 km/h, this professional-grade asphalt track brings a high-octane edge to island adventure.

As Kandima continues to innovate and launch new experiences, guests can expect even more surprises in the near future – with fun, flair, and freedom at the heart of it all.

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Awards

Equator Village wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel 2025 at World Travel Awards

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Equator Village has once again been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2025, held on 28 June in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This marks the third consecutive year the resort has received this prestigious accolade, following earlier wins in 2023 and 2024, underscoring its commitment to service excellence and consistent guest satisfaction.

Mohamed Waheed, Resort Manager at Equator Village, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that the recognition reflects the dedication, creativity, and hard work of the entire team. He highlighted their commitment to delivering warm, personalised service and creating welcoming spaces that resonate with the charm and hospitality of the south. Waheed also extended gratitude to the resort’s guests and partners for their continued support and trust.

Celebrating over three decades of recognising hospitality excellence, the World Travel Awards is regarded as one of the most esteemed honours in global tourism. Winners are selected through a rigorous international voting process involving both travel professionals and the public.

Located just a five-minute drive from Gan International Airport, Equator Village offers exceptional convenience along with the relaxed charm of the southern Maldives. The resort features 78 spacious bungalows surrounded by lush flower gardens, alongside facilities including a beachfront restaurant, bar, pool, gym, and meeting spaces – all infused with tropical flair and heartfelt southern hospitality.

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Awards

Dhawa Ihuru recognised among Maldives’ Best House Reefs by Travel + Leisure Asia

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Dhawa Ihuru has been named one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia in its esteemed Luxury Awards 2025. Renowned as a stylish retreat for diving enthusiasts, the resort’s house reef—home to reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant coral ecosystems—continues to attract and inspire travellers from across the globe.

This accolade goes beyond recognition, reflecting over two decades of steadfast dedication to marine conservation, scientific research, and coral restoration. These efforts have transformed the house reef into a living testament to sustainable tourism.

Since the establishment of the Banyan Group’s Marine Lab in 2004—the first resort-based conservation and research facility in the Maldives—Dhawa Ihuru has been at the forefront of environmental responsibility. Through long-term coral preservation projects and guest-focused educational initiatives, the resort has consistently promoted biodiversity and sustainability.

Guests at Dhawa Ihuru are invited to participate in a range of conservation efforts, including:

  • Coral planting and reef regeneration
  • Reef monitoring alongside marine biologists
  • Turtle identification and tracking
  • Sustainability workshops and marine talks
  • Community engagement programmes

These hands-on experiences not only aid in ecosystem restoration but also nurture awareness and a sense of shared responsibility among travellers.

“This recognition is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to marine protection,” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “What began as a vision nearly three decades ago has evolved into a living legacy of conservation. We are proud to continue nurturing one of the Maldives’ most biodiverse reefs—not only for our guests, but for future generations.”

Nick, Marine Lab Manager at the resort, added, “Over the past 20 years, our immersive marine biodiversity programmes, including hands-on conservation activities, have provided both educational and inspiring experiences. By involving our guests, we are enriching their stay and fostering a global community of marine stewards.”

To commemorate this achievement and celebrate the resort’s flourishing marine environment, Dhawa Ihuru will host the Rannamaari Dive Fest on 24 July 2025—a full-day celebration running from 10 AM to 10 PM. Inspired by the legendary Rannamaari shipwreck, the event will showcase the vibrancy of island life both above and below the waterline.

Event highlights include:

  • Underwater treasure hunts for divers and non-divers
  • Marine conservation talks and activities with the resort’s Marine Lab team
  • Cultural and creative island experiences, such as Maldivian arts & crafts with local artists, a Maldivian cooking class, a DIY wellbeing workshop, and family-friendly activities
  • A sunset cocktail celebration at Velavani Bar, followed by a beachfront DJ night

Travellers are invited to take part in this unique celebration that blends adventure, culture, and conservation—honouring one of the Maldives’ most iconic house reefs and contributing to its protection for generations to come.

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