Having a women-majority workforce is uncommon in the Maldives. Typically, resorts have a significant gender gap, with ladies making up only around 25% of the staff. In contrast, at OBLU SELECT Lobigili almost 80% of the 100-strong workforce is made up of women. Even the Housekeeping teams have ladies – something rarely seen in Maldivian resorts.
Hiring, developing, and promoting top female talent in the hospitality industry is a deliberate strategy by Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. With OBLU SELECT Lobigili being a adults exclusive resort, having a women-majority team adds a softer, feminine touch to the service experience. It also breaks stereotypes, proving that women can succeed in any role and position.
Take for instance the remarkable team of Island Hostesses – the resort’s interpretation of butler service. Guests are assigned two Island Hostesses. These ladies pay attention to the ‘little things’ and anticipate guests’ needs. Creating a luxurious and personalised holiday experience.
Pairing hostesses from two departments is a unique approach. The Front Office Hostess handles special requests, spa bookings, and activities for guests. While the Food & Beverage Hostess keeps track of dietary preferences for a top-notch dining experience.
At OBLU SELECT Lobigili, there’s an inclusive culture where women are encouraged to learn, advance, and thrive in diverse positions and career levels.
Some of the women colleagues at resort are Aminath Meefau Hussain and Khadheeja Mausooma the Airport Representatives, Rikza Abdul Ghany the Laundry Attendant, Priya Dubey the Front Office Supervisor, Hawwa Fahumiyya the Demi Chef De Partie and Aishath Ulfa the Commis Chef, Pranjana Pal the Learning and Development Manager, Kadek Wina the Spa Manager, Aishath Nuha Saeed the Assistant Human Resource Manager, Divyashree Letchumanan the Assistant Front office Manager, and Liahona Christy Ligeralde the Restaurant Manager.
Along with providing opportunities for Maldivians, the resort employs female colleagues from Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. A fast-track promotion program helps ladies grow up the ranks, giving them a strong sense of brand ownership.
Tell us a little about yourself. How was it growing up in the Maldives?
I belong to a small island called K. Huraa near the capital, Malé. It was amazing to grow up on an island amidst nature. The sea, a life-giving force, was a big part of my childhood.
What has been your career journey so far, and when did you join the AH&R family?
I gained inspiration from my dad who has worked in the hospitality industry, running his own guesthouse and restaurant since 2005. Watching him sparked a desire in me to work in a similar field. I moved to Sri Lanka to pursue my studies in 2007 and eventually, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management from the Management & Science University in Colombo in 2020.
Equipped with a degree and 6 months of experience working with dad, I landed a job as a receptionist followed by a job as a Guest Relations Officer, both at leading Maldivian resorts. I learned a lot and gained experience.
With the aim of career growth, I looked for further professional challenges, and that led me to OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili, which I joined in January 2022. Pre-opening was something I really wanted to be a part of as I believed that it would give me more exposure and chances to grow and learn.
What does it mean to you to be an Island Hostess?
It gives me great pride to be an Island Hostess on an island where 80% of the employees are women. It makes me feel that women are capable of achieving anything that they put their minds to. It’s all about interest and passion! I work with a diverse team with unity and great leadership.
Is the concept of ‘Island Hostess’ or ‘Island Chief’ connected to Maldivian culture, if yes, how?
Yes, it reflects true Maldivian culture, as every island has a Chief who leads the islanders who, in turn, look after the island and care for its resources. Similarly, we have the same concept at our resorts.
What’s your typical workday like?
I thoroughly enjoy working. As a people person, I believe in this motto: “The job is not your work, what you do with your heart and soul is the work.”
Tell us about an unusual request that you’ve received?
To be a model for a photoshoot!
What’s something new and exciting about OSL?
The concept of two Island Hostesses taking care of the guests throughout their stay which I find totally unique.
What’s the best feature of the Maldives?
The beautiful marine life and people.
One aspect of Maldivian culture that you’d most like to share with guests…
The culture, food, Maldivian hospitality, diverse marine life, and the uniqueness of each Maldivian Island.
