Shahil Ram, honored with the 2024 FETA Rising Star Award, recently completed a transformative cross-exposure placement at Sheraton Sydney, marking a significant milestone in his career. This experience not only showcased his professional capabilities but also provided him with valuable insights into the future of sustainable hospitality on a global scale.
As the Farm Executive at Sheraton Fiji Farm, which is part of the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort and Sheraton Denarau Villas, Mr. Ram has been instrumental in promoting sustainability in the region. His efforts at the resort have a tangible impact, as the farm supplies produce to seven on-site restaurants and bars, effectively reducing food miles by approximately two tonnes each year and significantly minimizing packaging waste.
Winning the FETA Rising Star Award was a humbling experience for Mr. Ram, affirming the importance of his work at Sheraton Fiji Farm. The award, conferred in February 2025, included a round-trip ticket from Fiji Airways, allowing him to immerse himself in the innovative urban landscape of Sydney. During his placement, he encountered advanced solutions to address urban agricultural challenges, such as hydroponic initiatives that save up to 40 percent more water compared to traditional farming methods.
However, the most striking aspect for Mr. Ram was the city’s integration of nature, particularly through rooftop beehives—a concept he found inspiring and has already begun to implement back in Fiji. Following this experience, Sheraton Fiji Farm introduced three beehives, leading to a successful first honey harvest of 40 kilograms. This locally-sourced honey is now featured in various culinary offerings at the resort, from breakfast dishes to specialty cocktails.
Mr. Ram acknowledges the crucial role that FETA and Fiji Airways have played in accelerating his career, emphasizing the importance of such platforms in elevating lesser-known yet vital roles in the tourism sector, like sustainability and farming. He believes these opportunities foster exposure, mentorship, and credibility, encouraging young professionals to realize the significance of their contributions.
As the 2025 FETA awards draw near, Mr. Ram encourages aspiring professionals to embrace challenges and step outside their comfort zones, as true growth often follows such experiences. This commitment to sustainability and innovation exemplifies a hopeful vision for the future of hospitality.
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