An Insider
DJ Angus Wong: Maldives is Like a Paradise
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Maldives Promotion House – As part of the W Hotels and burn studios DJ Lab global tour, W Maldives recently brought in DJ Angus Wong who performed during the last week of January. W Hotels Worldwide and burn studios launched the DJ Lab music platform, which was developed by burn, a globally leading energy drink from The Coca-Cola Company, in August 2011, in Ibiza, Spain.
During his residency in Maldives, DJ Angus Wong also shared his thoughts on Maldives in an exclusive interview with Maldives Promotion House. While this is his very first time in Maldives, Angus spent Most of his time in W Retreat & Spa Maldives. After his long flight Angus spent the night at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, Starwood Hotel’s second property in Maldives.
“This is the first time I’ve been in Maldives and I’m very excited to be here. I only arrived last night and I spent the night at Sheraton. So it was a very short stay. And I was quite tired form the flight. So couldn’t even get to see a lot of Sheraton, may be on the way back I’ll be able to see a little bit more,” Angus said.
When asked about whether Maldives has lived up to his expectations Angus said that “Maldives is like a paradise that people keep talking about,” and that being able to come to Maldives is beyond his imagination.
“I think it’s slightly better that what I expected. I mean I look at these pictures and I think, ‘oh wow, this place looks beautiful’. But it’s really something when you actually get to see it. I was going earlier on the boat, and I don’t think I have seen this shade of blue in the ocean. It’s very different. You can’t think how beautiful it really is until you actually see it,” Angus added.
When asked if he had been to any other island destinations, Angus said that he had been to Bali. “I just spent this New Year’s Eve in W Bali. That was very entertaining. W Bali is also a very very beautiful resort and I have great friends there.”
“W Bali is in the city, about 20 minutes from the airport if you are lucky with the traffic. If not it could be 3 hours. Bali is a beach island and I’ve been to the beach. It was great. But it was the rainy season and also the monsoon season. So it was too windy for swimming but it was perfect for surfing,” he added.
While you won’t find another musician whose sound is as intoxicatingly stylish, sultry and sophisticated as DJ Angus Wong, he is famous for lifting his listeners to exhilarating highs of audio dynamite, Angus’ mix is reckless and wreaks hidden pleasures, much like his very cheeky personality. Angus also explained to us how he got into music.
“It was probably about 5 years ago, I just finished school and I was working in a bar in Hong Kong. And one day I decide, ‘I like to sing here, I like music. Why don’t I try something new?’ So I talked to the DJ guy, I told him ‘I really wanna get into this, what do I do?’ Before I know it I have my CDs ready. And I talked to some people, and it’s not very good in the beginning. But you know, I have gotten better over the last few years. Three and a half years ago I was approached by W Hong Kong to represent the music to them. So that’s how I got involved with them,” he explained how he got into the music industry.
Since W Hotel Hong Kong opened in August 8th of 2008, DJ Angus Wong has been their proud resident DJ. However thanks to W Angus has also been able to travel the world, hopping from destination to destination, showing off his skills.
“I’m very lucky, thanks to W of course and also thanks to Michaelangelo, our global music director. He helped create this. The music you are listening to is his direction right now. He helped us growing into DJing and also provided with all these opportunities to see the world. You get to check out everywhere. Everywhere you go you stay in the most stylish hotel in that part of the city. And you also you get to share your passion with music with everybody, in a new location. It’s always very exciting,” he said.
Angus is part of the DJ Lab for which, W Hotels Global Music Director Michaelangelo L’Acqua collaborated with burn studios to identify six rising DJs, in line with the W Hotels mission to showcase ‘what’s new and next.’ Hailing from key international cities across the globe, the talents selected include, DJ Angus Wong from Hong Kong, Lincoln Madley of New York (aka DJ Bouji), Miaou Mix (comprised of Noemi Sunshine Ferst and Judith Dju of Tête d’Affiche, Paris), Stopmakingme of London (aka Daniel Avery) and Eiko of Tokyo.
“There are six DJs in this program and I am one of them. During August 2011 we went to Barcelona and Ibiza for a weeklong boot camp. We caught back, the six of us; me from Hong Kong, two girls, the Miaou mix from Paris, Daniel Avery from London, Lincoln Madley from New York and Eiko from Tokyo, Japan,” he said.
“So the six of us spend every waking minute together, talking about music. You know, we are the representation of today’s music. It was a very luxurious experience. You can imagine being a DJ is pretty much a lone job. So you work yourself, and obviously in a different crowd every day. It’s very difficult to make a connection with people who don’t work in the same platform for a few days. But then, ten or twelve days we spent together in the boot camp, we just wake up and we practice and we talk about music all day. And usually finish by going to a night club to dance,” he added.
While his passion for music began at a young age, equipped with only 6 CDs, the young DJ bravely taught himself how to spin at 21, playing his first-ever gig to a full-house crowd in wild Hong Kong. He is also responsible for creating the highly successful monthly club series called Gay Tea Dance at Tivo. DJ Angus Wong also thinks very highly of music and expressed that no one should exclude it from their life.
“Well, I think everybody should be a music guy. Really, I think music is a big part of a person. I mean you walk into a place and the first thing you see is the design or like you feel and then you smell, but music is always in the background,” he said.
“Like I consider going outside and you hear different things like sounds of the nature, birds, you know, these are all music to our ears and the thing is that it’s a huge part. Being a DJ is a very unique experience which is, you know, music could be very intimate. There is music that I listen to when I’m happy, when I’m sad. And I feel like when I DJ, I share these moments with the people.”
While DJ Angus had an extremely busy schedule at W Retreat & Spa Maldives, playing to the guests at the luxurious resort, he also said that he would love to come back to the Maldives. We at Maldives Promotion House thank the W Brand for bringing in talents such as DJ Angus Wong, and we are also grateful to Angus Wong for sharing his time with us.
An Insider
Oriana Migliaccio: The Marine Guardian Transforming Conservation in the Maldives
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At the heart of Anantara’s commitment to tailored luxury and authentic experiences lies the passionate work of Oriana Migliaccio, a marine biologist whose devotion to oceanic preservation resonates deeply in the sky-blue waters of the Maldives. Oriana, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer with a PhD in Life and Biomolecular Sciences, embodies the spirit of discovery and conservation at Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, and Naladhu Private Island Maldives.
Raised on the sun-kissed shores of Naples, Italy, Oriana’s early years were steeped in the wonders of the Mediterranean Sea, a rich biodiversity hotspot. She frequently spent winter breaks at the aquarium. “It is this deep love for the marine world that got me interested from an early age in pursuing a career in marine biology,” she reflects. Following her passion, Oriana earned her B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Marine Biology in Italy. Her journey then took her to the Maldives for an additional master’s in Tropical Marine Biology, where the allure of tropical environments steered her focus towards specialising in coral reef biology and conservation. This newfound dedication culminated in earning her PhD in the United Kingdom, solidifying her commitment to preserving marine ecosystems.
Oriana’s expertise, honed in the jungles of Borneo as a Conservation Manager and Dive Leader, now flourishes in the Maldives. Her initiatives span coral reef restoration, sea turtle protection, and sustainable practices, all pivotal to the region’s marine ecosystem. A crowning achievement is her creation of the “Reef Hero” PADI specialty, a course designed to educate divers on coral conservation, nurturing a new wave of ocean stewards.
“I created the ‘Reef Hero’ course during my time as a marine biologist and dive instructor in Malaysian Borneo. This course, focusing on coral reef restoration and rehabilitation, was inspired by my diving students’ desire to positively impact the oceans they love exploring. Witnessing the adverse effects of marine issues like debris, over-fishing, pollution, and global warming, this inspired me to create guidelines that can be used by recreational divers to save coral reefs around the world.” – Oriana Migliaccio
In April 2023, Oriana joined Anantara, where her role transcends traditional boundaries, as she immerses guests in a world of marine wonders through various interactive initiatives:
- Marine Talk on Coral Reef & Marine Life: Weekly educational sessions that spotlight the vital role of coral reefs and the importance of responsible diving.
- Discovering Marine Biology for Kids: Fun, interactive lessons that spark young minds’ curiosity about the underwater world.
- Workshop on Repurposing Ghost Nets: Transforming abandoned fishing nets into bracelets, raising awareness about their impact on marine life.
- Marine Biologist Corner: An open forum for guests to engage with Oriana, deepening their understanding of marine conservation.
- Visit the Coral Nursery: Snorkeling adventures to coral nurseries, where guests explore coral species and participate in the resort’s coral restoration efforts.
- Coral Adoption: Encouraging guests to play an active role in coral restoration, either by planting corals or sponsoring a coral rope, and tracking their growth.
“In the Maldives, a country faced with pressing environmental challenges, sustainability and environmental conservation are not just trends. They are a necessity,” Oriana emphasises, outlining the long-term goals for sustainability and marine conservation at Anantara’s Maldives resorts. “The survival of this tropical paradise is intertwined with adopting sustainable practices and reducing the anthropogenic impact on the environment.”
Following the devastating coral bleaching event of 2016, Oriana has been instrumental in Anantara’s HARP initiative (Holistic Approach to Reef Protection), aimed at rehabilitating damaged coral reefs. With over 10,000 corals grown and planted since 2017, the project is on course to double this number, enhancing marine biodiversity. Guests are invited to become coral gardeners, contributing to the project’s success while receiving progress updates on their adopted “baby corals”.
Collaborating with esteemed organisations like the Olive Ridley Project, Manta Trust, and the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, Oriana’s work includes a photo-ID programme for studying sea turtles, manta rays, and whale sharks. She invites guests to join as citizen scientists, aiding in data collection during their underwater explorations.
Oriana Migliaccio’s contributions reflect the essence of Anantara’s luxury experience — unique, immersive, and deeply connected to the local environment. Her passion and dedication are not just preserving the ocean’s beauty but also inspiring guests to become active participants in its conservation, ensuring its wonder endures for generations to come.
For more information on Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, please visit www.anantara.com.
An Insider
Abdulla Wisam: A journey of excellence and growth in the Maldivian hospitality industry
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In the heart of the stunning Maldives, where luxury resorts and crystal-clear waters come together to create a paradise on Earth, there are individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every guest’s experience is nothing short of exceptional. One such individual is Abdulla Wisam, whose remarkable journey in the hospitality industry is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to providing the best possible service to guests.
Abdulla Wisam’s journey in the hospitality industry began right after completing his schooling. In 2003, he embarked on his professional career by joining Dhoveli Beach Resort & Spa, where he gained his first taste of the world of hospitality. It was here that he discovered his passion for creating memorable guest experiences and building relationships with visitors from around the world.
After his initial foray into the industry, Wisam’s career path continued to evolve. His dedication and hard work caught the attention of industry leaders, leading him to take on roles of increasing responsibility. His time at Meeru Island Resort saw him as an Outlet Cashier and Night Auditor, roles that allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the operational aspects of a resort.
Wisam’s determination and eagerness to learn led him to the iconic Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, where he started as a Recreation Attendant. Over time, he showcased his exceptional skills in guest relations and management, and he was promoted to the position of Front Office Supervisor. His journey with Four Seasons served as a stepping stone for what was to come next.
In 2014, Wisam joined the W Maldives, a resort known for its luxurious offerings and unparalleled guest experiences. Starting as a Welcome Team Leader, he quickly rose through the ranks due to his impeccable guest service skills and innate leadership abilities. His promotion to Guest Experience Manager was a testament to his ability to not only meet but exceed guest expectations. He was then transferred to The St. Regis Maldives as the Assistant Front Office Manager with the pre-opening team.
As his career trajectory continued its upward trajectory, Wisam took on the role of Front Office Manager at prestigious resorts such as Milaidhoo Island, Raffles Maldives, and The Standard Maldives. These roles allowed him to refine his management style, hone his problem-solving skills, and contribute to the overall success of each resort.
Wisam’s journey eventually led him to COMO Cocoa Island, a resort renowned for its unparalleled luxury and exquisite attention to detail. Joining as the Front Office Manager, he embraced the challenges and responsibilities that came with the position. His dedication, combined with his innate ability to create genuine connections with guests, led to his promotion as the Director of Rooms.
Wisam’s journey in the Maldivian hospitality industry is a remarkable tale of perseverance, growth, and a genuine passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. His diverse roles, spanning from recreation to guest experience management, have equipped him with a holistic understanding of the industry. His commitment to continuous improvement and dedication to delivering top-tier service have not only benefited the resorts he’s been a part of but have also contributed to elevating the reputation of Maldives as a premier luxury travel destination.
As Wisam continues to shape the guest experience landscape at COMO Cocoa Island, one can only imagine the heights he will reach and the impact he will make on the ever-evolving hospitality industry of the Maldives. His journey stands as an inspiration to aspiring hoteliers and a testament to the boundless opportunities that await those who are truly passionate about their craft.
An Insider
Hamzath Ameen: Elevating human resources
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In the fast-paced and thriving hospitality industry of the Maldives, where exceptional service and guest satisfaction are paramount, there are individuals who stand out for their dedication, expertise, and leadership qualities. Hamzath Ameen is making his mark as a proficient human resources professional in island resorts of the Maldives. With an impressive career trajectory and a passion for excellence, Hamzath has become a respected figure in the industry.
Hamzath Ameen was born and raised in Addu Atoll, a region known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Following his schooling, he pursued his higher education at Cyryx College in Male’, where he successfully completed an Advanced Diploma in Business Management. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future career in the dynamic world of hospitality.
Hamzath embarked on his professional journey at Dhonveli Beach Resort, where he assumed the role of Accounts Officer. This initial foray into the hospitality industry allowed him to gain valuable insights into the financial aspects of resort operations and the importance of maintaining accurate records and efficient systems.
Eager to expand his horizons and broaden his skill set, Hamzath sought opportunities at various reputable companies and resorts throughout the Maldives. His determination and exceptional work ethic caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to his appointment as the Human Resources Officer at Furaveri Island Resort. Recognizing his potential, Ameen quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to the position of Assistant Manager, and subsequently, Human Resources Manager.
During his tenure at Furaveri Island Resort, Hamzath made significant contributions to the establishment’s human resources department. He spearheaded various initiatives to enhance employee engagement, streamline recruitment processes, and foster a positive work culture. Under his leadership, the resort witnessed an increase in employee satisfaction and a notable reduction in turnover rates, solidifying Hamzath’s reputation as a skilled people manager.
In 2022, Hamzath accepted an exciting new opportunity and joined Rihiveli Maldives Resort as the Human Resources Manager. With his wealth of experience and proven track record, he assumed a pivotal role in overseeing the resort’s human resources functions, including recruitment, training and development, performance management, and employee relations. Hamzath’s strategic approach and ability to build strong relationships with staff and management alike have made him an invaluable asset to the resort.
Hamzath Ameen’s journey from an Accounts Officer to a respected Human Resources Manager exemplifies his commitment to personal growth and professional excellence. Through his hard work, dedication, and leadership abilities, he has successfully carved a niche for himself in the competitive Maldivian hospitality industry. Hamzath’s passion for nurturing talent, fostering positive work environments, and delivering exceptional guest experiences continues to make a lasting impact on the resorts he has served.
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