Insiders
Shifaz Hassan on Creating Magic at JOALI Maldives
Nestled in the heart of the Maldives, JOALI Maldives is a luxury resort that has captured the hearts of travellers from around the world. At the helm of this enchanting paradise is Shifaz Hassan, the Resort Manager, whose passion for hospitality and dedication to nurturing local talent has made him a force to be reckoned with in the industry. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Shifaz’s career, his motivations, and his vision for the future of Maldivian tourism.
Shifaz’s journey in the hospitality industry began in 2007, when he joined the Four Seasons Resorts at Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru as an Airport Representative. Over the years, he has held various positions at prestigious resorts such as One&Only Reethi Rah and Gili Lankanfushi Maldives and eventually, JOALI Maldives. His impressive career trajectory is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the tourism industry.
When asked about what motivates him, Shifaz shared, “I have always been passionate about creating unforgettable experiences for our guests. The Maldives is not just our home, but a unique destination, and I believe that our hospitality should reflect the beauty and warmth of our islands. My motivation comes from seeing the smiles on our guests’ faces and knowing that we have made their stay truly special.”
As the Resort Manager at JOALI Maldives, Shifaz’s focus is on leading his team to deliver exceptional service and create lasting memories for their guests. “At JOALI, we believe in the power of collaboration and communication. I am fortunate to work with a team of talented individuals who share my passion for hospitality. We call our butlers Jaadhoogar or magician, which literally means a magician. And so, we create magic for our guests. Together, we strive to exceed our guests’ expectations and make their stay at JOALI an unforgettable experience,” he said.
One of Shifaz’s key priorities is the development of local talent for jobs in the industry. He is a firm believer in the potential of young Maldivians and is committed to providing them with opportunities to grow and excel in the tourism and hospitality sector. “The Maldives has a wealth of talent, and it is our responsibility as local industry leaders to nurture and develop this talent. At JOALI, we invest in the growth of our team members through training and mentorship, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge to succeed in their careers,” Shifaz explained. “I believe that education and mentorship are crucial in shaping the future leaders of our industry. By sharing my experiences and insights, I hope to inspire young Maldivians to pursue their dreams and contribute to the growth and development of our tourism sector.”
His message to young Maldivians who wish to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality is one of encouragement and inspiration. “The tourism industry offers a world of opportunities for growth and personal development. If you are passionate about hospitality and willing to work hard, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Believe in yourself, and never stop learning,” Shifaz advised.
In a rapidly evolving industry, Shifaz’s adaptability and forward-thinking approach have been instrumental in his success. “The tourism landscape is constantly changing, and it is important for us to stay ahead of the curve. We must be willing to embrace new trends and adapt our strategies to meet the needs of our guests and the market,” he said.
Innovation and creativity are at the heart of Shifaz’s approach to hospitality management. He believes that by fostering a culture of experimentation and open-mindedness, JOALI Maldives can continue to push the boundaries of luxury and offer guests an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. “In the competitive world of luxury hospitality, it is essential to stay ahead of the curve and constantly explore new ideas. At JOALI, we encourage our team members to think outside the box and challenge the status quo, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of the industry,” Shifaz said.
One example of this innovative spirit is the resort’s unique art-immersive concept, which showcases the work of local and international artists throughout the property. This creative approach not only adds a distinctive touch to the guest experience but also supports the global art community. “Art is an integral part of the JOALI experience. By collaborating with talented artists from the Maldives and around the world, we are able to create a dynamic and inspiring environment that resonates with our guests and sets us apart from other luxury resorts,” Shifaz shared.
As Shifaz looks to the future, his vision for JOALI Maldives is one of continued growth and evolution, with a focus on maintaining the highest standards of excellence and sustainability. “Our goal is to build a legacy that reflects our commitment to luxury, innovation, and responsible tourism. We will continue to invest in our team, our facilities, and our community, ensuring that JOALI Maldives remains a beacon of excellence in the Maldivian tourism industry,” he said.
To achieve this vision, Shifaz emphasises the importance of collaboration and teamwork. “Success in the hospitality industry is a collective effort. By working together and supporting one another, we can overcome challenges and achieve our goals. I am incredibly proud of the team at JOALI Maldives and am confident that, together, we will continue to set new benchmarks for luxury hospitality in the Maldives and beyond,” he shared.
News
The Nautilus Maldives welcomes Christopher Terry as Executive Chef
The Nautilus Maldives has announced the appointment of Christopher Terry as their new Executive Chef. Chef Terry brings a wealth of experience and a global flair to the resort’s diverse dining experiences.
A native of Antigua and Barbuda, Chef Terry’s culinary skills encompass a wide range of cuisines, including Mediterranean, French, Caribbean, European, and Asian. This makes him a perfect fit for The Nautilus, which is known for its eclectic and unique dining options.
Throughout his 15-year career, Chef Terry has honed his craft at some of the world’s most prestigious luxury resorts, including Aman, Rosewood Resorts, and Sandals Resorts. His exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Artisan Award at the Antigua & Barbuda National Youth Awards and Young Chef of the Year by the Antigua Hotel’s and Tourist Association.
Chef Terry believes in using the finest ingredients, with a focus on fresh, local produce. His culinary philosophy aligns perfectly with The Nautilus’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences and unforgettable taste journeys for its guests.
Under Chef Terry’s leadership, guests at The Nautilus can expect to explore the following:
- Zeytoun: Offering a focus on the aromatic herbs and spices of the Mediterranean.
- Ocaso: Blending Japanese cuisine with a modern Latin American twist.
- Thyme: Featuring comforting international cuisine, with flavors ranging from Asian to Mediterranean.
Chef Terry’s creations promise to be a reflection of pure, high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully paired for a delicious dining experience.
Equipped with a degree in Culinary Arts and a Wines and Spirits certification, Chef Terry brings a spirit of curiosity and a passion for culinary innovation to The Nautilus. Inspired by the Maldives’s rich natural bounty and pristine ingredients, he aims to elevate The Nautilus’s menus with his signature Caribbean-infused creations.
To discover the epicurean journeys available at The Nautilus Maldives, visit www.thenautilusmaldives.com.
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.
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