Employees of IHG hotels and resorts, owned by the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), achieved notable success at the recent HOTEC 2024 competition held in Nadi. Their outstanding performances in various categories highlighted their skills in hospitality.
Hansini Gounder from InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa emerged as the top barista, showcasing her mastery in coffee preparation. This victory is particularly impressive as she also secured the first place in the same category in both 2017 and 2018.
The bartender competition was won by Theodore Reyes, also representing InterContinental, who impressed the judges with his innovative cocktails featuring local ingredients.
Anesh Anushal Goundar, also from InterContinental, claimed the runner-up position in the chef competition, demonstrating culinary creativity with dishes that celebrated Fijian flavors. Their teammates—Brandon Solvalu from Grand Pacific Hotel, and Mereoni Ligadua and Malakai Kauyaca from Holiday Inn—also participated actively in the event.
Lachlan Walker, Portfolio General Manager for IHG Hotels & Resorts in FNPF Owned Hotels, praised the accomplishments of the team, emphasizing IHG’s dedication to nurturing local talent and fortifying the development of the Fijian hospitality sector. He expressed his pride in their achievements, which reflect the company’s mission to deliver exceptional experiences for guests.
Walker further highlighted IHG’s ongoing support for local businesses and sustainable practices, which are integral to their operations. The HOTEC event served as an important venue for hospitality professionals to showcase their talents, share ideas, and promote quality and innovation within the industry.
This success not only underscores the individual talents of the team members but also illustrates a promising future for the local hospitality industry in Fiji, driven by professionalism and creativity.
In summary, the triumphs at HOTEC 2024 signal a vibrant spirit of innovation and excellence in Fijian hospitality, providing encouragement to both industry professionals and aspiring talent alike.
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