Insiders
Volunteer Maldives: Offering the Real Maldives Experience
Maldives Promotion House – Registered in Maldives, Volunteer Maldives is an organization which was founded by Yvonne Habeeb and Michelle Flake, two professionals with a lot of experience in the global travel business, and ten years of experience living in Maldives.
With a strong travel and tourism background, Yvonne has lived in the Maldives for almost 10 years, while Michelle has also lived in the Maldives for some 10 years and has over 20 years of experience in the Travel Industry. While their main goal is to promote the Maldives as a destination not just for tourism, they highlight many areas that will benefit from foreign volunteers who can help with many of the programs offered to benefit local communities.
Volunteer Maldives has worked with other non governmental organizations and island organizations, setting up programs in a variety of social areas such as education and sports. According to the organization, they are planning on extending their programs to other islands as well.
“Many schools and NGO’s contact us on a daily basis wanting volunteers for various programs. We have some very exciting projects and events coming up over the next 12 months, which will be kept under wraps until the final details are organised,” Yvonne said.
The organisation has participated and worked alongside major events such as the internationally renowned Hay Festival which was held on 2010. They have also made various donations to the local community as a social responsibility, and are also planning on further projects.
“Into this year we have some very exciting new projects in Arts and Culture, and are developing our nationwide Conservation Program and highlighting events while working with both NGO’s and government departments,” Yvonne added.
Being one of the first foreign volunteer organisations in the Maldives, Volunteer Maldives has had tremendous support from government, private, and individual organisations and has built up trust and credibility from all sectors of the community.
Explaining her desire to assist Maldives Michelle explains it by saying that “the Maldives is one of the most stunning destinations in the world and I want to give people the opportunity to experience the true Maldives. Live with the wonderful island communities and really make a difference, whilst giving them the opportunity for a once in a life time experience.”
This small island nation of the Maldives is renowned for its unique beaches, crystal clear lagoons and world class tourist resorts. However, the local life is very different and the famed luxury does not reflect the lives of normal hardworking Maldivians.
“The Maldives is one of the most stunning destinations in the world, but behind the façade of five star resorts and privilege the tourists see, there is a whole different world where the local communities of gentle people need help with a host of areas such as teaching, medical work, and youth work to inspire people in this remote island nation,” Yvonne states.
Volunteer Maldives is indeed a very special experience where you can participate in a variety of projects and development programs to benefit local island communities to make a marked and substantial difference to Maldivians.
In order to benefit the locals, Volunteer Maldives works in cooperation with island communities, NGO’s and government schools ensuring that the volunteer’s skills are shown where they are most required. The volunteer placements offered by Volunteer Maldives includes teaching, the medical field, sports coaches, and community development among others.
By offering a “Real Maldives” experience to the volunteers, Volunteer Maldives grants the opportunity to touch the local people’s lives, to live among the native community and to integrate into the unique Maldivian culture, while savouring the beauty of Maldives. According to Volunteer Maldives their “Give Back” programme ensures that a considerable proportion of a volunteer’s placement fee goes back into the community.
Volunteer Maldives prides itself with “a core set of values that guides everything we do. At the forefront of that vision is the desire and commitment to make sure all volunteer projects are of an immense benefit, and sustainable to the small island communities we work closely with. For the volunteers, we endeavour to ensure that the valuable time given by our volunteers provides a fulfilling and unforgettable experience that they’ll carry with them throughout their lives.”
We at Maldives Promotion House support their efforts to develop the local communities. We wish them success in their future project. Keep it up Volunteer Maldives.
News
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort appoints Thaaif Ahmed appointed as Director of Sales & Marketing
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, part of Minor Hotels, has announced the appointment of Thaaif Ahmed as the Director of Sales & Marketing, effective 1 May 2024.
Thaaif brings nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, with a significant portfolio of roles within Minor Hotels. His career includes serving as the Director of Sales at NH Collection Maldives, where he played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth and fostering strategic partnerships.
Throughout his tenure, Thaaif has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities and a profound understanding of the industry landscape. His strategic prowess and collaborative approach have consistently delivered outstanding results, making him a respected figure within the organisation.
In his previous capacity as Cluster Director of Sales, overseeing Anantara Dhigu Resort Maldives, Anantara Veli Resort Maldives, and Naladhu Private Island, Thaaif contributed to the success and growth of the brand.
As he assumes the role of Director of Sales & Marketing at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, Thaaif is poised to leverage his wealth of experience and expertise to drive brand positioning, enhance revenue streams, and elevate the overall guest experience. His appointment underscores the resort’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector.
Please join Stuart De San Nicolas, Cluster General Manager of Anantara Kihavah, Avani+ Fares and NH Collection Havodda plus Riaan Drever, General Manager of Fares in congratulating Thaaif on his well-deserved promotion. We also express our gratitude to Paul Counihan, for his support during our pre-opening and opening stages. Paul will transition to focus on Anantara Kihavah, our sister property in Baa Atoll, while Thaaif assumes leadership at Avani+ Fares Maldives.
Set on the natural tropical island of Fares and surrounded by the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve’s deep blue hues, the resort offers an abundance of aquatic adventures as well as pristine sandy beaches for pure relaxation. With 176 stylish villas, pavilions, and studios, Avani+ Fares welcomes couples and honeymooners, as well as families and groups, with a focus on multi-room accommodation.
News
Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives appoints Warren Moore as Executive Chef
Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives has announced the appointment of Warren Moore as the resort’s new Executive Chef.
Chef Warren Moore hailing from South Africa, brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise, having earned his Culinary Degree at City and Guilds Culinary Institute. With over 25 years of distinguished service in the Restaurant and Hospitality Industry, Chef Warren is poised to elevate the culinary offerings at Seaside Finolhu to new heights.
In his previous role, Chef Warren served as Executive Chef at Jawakara Maldives, where he showcased his culinary prowess and leadership skills. Prior to that, he spent seven years honing his craft within various properties of the esteemed Crown and Champa Resorts Group. His culinary journey has taken him across continents, including stints in South Africa, Mozambique, London, and the United States.
As the Executive Chef at Seaside Finolhu, Chef Warren will oversee all culinary operations, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene and food quality are maintained. His responsibilities include supervising daily kitchen operations, managing food production, and leading kitchen staff with a focus on excellence and innovation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Warren Moore to our team at Seaside Finolhu,” said Steven Phillips General Manager of Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives. “His extensive experience and passion for culinary excellence will undoubtedly enhance the dining experience for our guests and further solidify our reputation as a gastronomic heaven in the Maldives.”
With Chef Warren Moore at the helm, Seaside Finolhu looks forward to delivering unforgettable culinary experiences that celebrate the rich flavours of the Maldives and beyond.
News
W Maldives promotes Ahmed Zahir and Ismail Saeed to key management positions
W Maldives has announced the well-deserved promotions of two of its dedicated team members, Ahmed Zahir and Ismail Saeed, effective April 15th, 2024.
Ahmed Zahir, known as Coacha, has been promoted from Welcome Manager to Rooms Division Manager. Coacha’s journey at W Maldives began in December 2010 as a Welcome Agent. Over the past 13 years, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, holding various roles within the Welcome department.
Known for his dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences and his outstanding interpersonal skills, Coacha is a true asset to the W Maldives team. His experience extends beyond the resort, having served as a task force member at the St. Regis Red Sea and as a pre-opening trainer. He is also actively participating in the Marriott Kurimagu Program, a program designed to cultivate Maldivian leadership in the hospitality industry. With his extensive knowledge of Welcome operations, Coacha is perfectly suited for his new role as Rooms Division Manager.
Ismail Saeed, also known as Saito, has been promoted from Lounge Manager to Welcome Manager. Saito’s W Maldives story began in March 2010 as a Welcome Agent. He then transitioned to airport operations as a Lounge Ambassador in 2013. Throughout his tenure, Saito has displayed a strong commitment to personal growth, consistently developing his skillset. He has participated in a cross-exposure program at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, working in Housekeeping, and has also supported the resort’s Style operations in the past three months. This diverse experience across multiple departments makes Saito a perfect fit for his new role as Welcome Manager.
The appointments of Ahmed Zahir and Ismail Saeed underscore W Maldives’ commitment to nurturing talent and promoting from within. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and innovation to their respective roles, promising to further enhance the guest experience and uphold the resort’s reputation for excellence.
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