Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk (ESH)
November Host of the Month: MICHAEL CABULERA
Michael Cabulera
As a 14-year veteran of OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels and ESH, “Mike” Cabulera has been a model host and a true example of what it means to live The OUTRIGGER Way. As a leader of our breakfast operation, Mike sets the bar high for providing a delicious breakfast and excellent guest service. He works alongside his team, teaching them new ways to improve their skills and brings a sense of leadership to our kitchen. As a seasoned veteran at ESH, Mike has developed from being one of our star breakfast cooks to now our “Pakini Bites” champion. This was reflected in the development and execution of our Pakini Bites Lunch program, where Mike has produced a significant amount of revenue for the hotel. Although this is only one example of what Michael brings to us at the Embassy Suites in Waikiki, he truly illustrates to us each day what it means to work and live The Outrigger Way.
– Nominated by Justyn Wee, Food & Beverage Manager
December Host of the Month: DENNIS BONILLA
Dennis Bonilla
In the last two years I have been with Embassy Suites, I cannot count the times I have had to ask for help from engineering. Whether it’s a light out, dead batteries or mounting something to the wall, Dennis has been the one to help me so many times. He is reliable and always does his best to get the job done right for our hosts, but also our guests. At the same time, he does his job with a smile and never complains when things get difficult or really busy. Earlier in the year when we launched HotSOS, he was the first maintenance host to use the mobile device and has been a leader in making the transition successful. He not only is a master at using HotSOS himself, but does his best to help others learn as well. Thank you, Dennis, for all you do for our hotel.
– Nominated by Roland Kam, Hotel Manager
Q4 Host Luncheon
As the year comes to an end, the theme of our 4th Quarter Luncheon was a Holly Jolly Christmas. After a year of diligent and passionate work, the Embassy Suites hosts were definitely on the Super Stars list as they got a visit from Santa Claus himself. After taking pictures with Santa, we enjoyed good food while the management team went over hotel updates, safety topics and host recognition. Last but not least, thank you to our managers Justyn Yee, Carol Lopes, and Sandra Kama for hosting fun and interactive games for all hosts to participate. The management team’s goal was to make our hosts feel recognized and valued for their work and dedication, and I believe they truly felt appreciated by all the effort that was put into this luncheon.
Happy Holidays from the Embassy Suites Waikiki ‘Ohana!
OHANA Waikiki East by OUTRIGGER (OEH)
Manager of the Quarter: KEALA RAZA
Kiana Beimes, Keala Raza and Katherine Allen
Since joining our ‘OHANA Beast’ team in June of 2023, Keala’s energy has consistently invigorated and revitalized the OEH housekeeping team, and the entire property as a whole. She makes every day so much fun and has truly united our team in countless ways.
It’s no secret that Keala enjoys laughing and making everyone around her feel happy. She starts each morning’s briefing with a highly enthusiastic “group stretch” with her team so they can feel motivated and excited. Keala is often seen (and heard) cheering her team on in all areas of the property, in addition to all departments. She is the epitome of a “team player” and was the very host who coined the term ‘OHANA BEAST.’
Because of Keala’s innovative leadership, her efforts have largely influenced our guest ratings to regularly reach record-breaking heights! She inspires her team daily to connect with guests and strive to “make” their day as frequently as possible. As a result of this, the housekeeping hosts are constantly being recognized by name on all review platforms and team morale is truly at its peak. The team is so activated, that they have been the largest participating OEH department for all OUTRIGGERCares events this year. In addition to external platforms and events, Keala’s department has ranked the highest in UniFocus scores across the board the whole year – all mid-90s, despite the majority of 2023 having no new product. It is collaborative strides such as these that have allowed us to jump to #37 on TripAdvisor, and we’re not stopping there.
In addition to her shining example as a ‘BEAST Boss,’ Keala is 200% “hands-on” with every, and any, task at hand. OEH began its room renovation project in November 2023, so we were tasked with removing over 20+ years of decorations, office supplies, banquet dishes and countless abandoned items in our public and storage spaces. Keala took the initiative to schedule, coordinate and execute removal of all items – immediately creating drastic space, as well as a turning point for the property. Next was de-fitting our rooms in preparation for demo and transformation. Once again, Keala spearheaded the checklist for pre/post renovation; assigning roles to all departments, which allowed for total efficiency and optimal execution. Then, when our beloved sister property, OBC, notified us of their emergency flood on December 5, 2023, Keala sprang into action and hurried over with OEH Houseman Vincent with water vacuums and extractors to help remediate the damage. Keala and Vince worked for 3+ hours to help stop the flooding from reaching more rooms. Thanks to their heroic action, and along with the brave team of OBC, they were able to detain the flood in rapid time.
Keala is shining star, in all that she does. Her team celebrates her for her contagious positivity and her entertaining productivity. She “walks the talk” and she holds her team’s hands along the entire way. We are continuously proud of Keala and beyond eager to see all that she will accomplish in her bright future ahead with OUTRIGGER. For these reasons, we are thrilled to announce our OEH Manager of the 4th Quarter 2023, Keala Raza!
– Nominated by Kiana Beimes, General Manager
Secret Santa
Team members of OEH drew names to become someone’s Secret Santa. Each was given a wish list of gift ideas that consisted of their favorite color, drink, snack and gift card. As we all exchanged gifts, members were thrilled and jolly to unwrap their gifts.
OHANA Waikiki East by OUTRIGGER (OEH) + OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel (OBC)
Happy National Ugly Sweater Day (December 15)
BY KATHERINE ALLEN — It was a surprise to find out we had planned our Ugly Sweater-themed Ruth’s Chris dinner to be on National Ugly Sweater Day; however, it was even more of a surprise to see all the uniquely ugly sweaters the team wore.
As we devoured our steaks, everyone enjoyed one another’s company and the laughter that ensued with each ugly sweater. A voting submission was held for 1st place being the Ugliest, 2nd place being the Uglier and 3rd being Ugly. It was a close call with all the creativity and ugliness — Jessie Gruspe won 1st, Kiana Beimes won 2nd and I won 3rd.
When dessert came, so did our white elephant gifts that consisted of Snoop Dog cookbooks, skin care products, Stanley cups and other fun knick-knacks. It was a great night to have our close properties bond with one another and everyone got to take home Jennifer Yamada’s famous chocolate cake and my chocolate-covered strawberries!
OUTRIGGER Kaua‘i Beach Resort (KBR)
The KBR ‘ohana celebrated the holidays in 70s style.
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort (MAM)
BY AYAASHA ISHAAQ — We held our All-Host Meeting on December 12, where we recognized Host of the Month Service Provider and October Host of the Month for Heart of the House and Front of the House. The meeting was followed by a special tea party celebrating November birthdays.
November Host of the Month | Front of the House: SHAIHAAN MOHAMED SHAAHEEN
Shaihaan is punctual and has shown excellent work behavior in every aspect of his job. He shows a strong work ethic by consistently staying until all daily tasks are completed. He is a great team player. He supports others in fulfilling their tasks and is always ready to help. He shows pride in his work, going above and beyond to ensure excellence. He provides an efficient and enjoyable dining experience for customers. He respects his colleagues and customers. He always provides courteous and professional services.
– Comments by Azleef Abdulla, Assistant Food & Beverage Manager
November Host of the Month | Heart of the House: THOHA HUSSAIN
Thoha demonstrates technical excellence in providing invaluable support in resolving complex IT issues. His proficiency in troubleshooting and problem-solving has significantly contributed to the smooth functioning of our department. Also, one of the standout qualities of Thoha is his ability to convey technical concepts in a user-friendly manner. In addition to individual excellence, Thoha has been a collaborative team player and actively engages with team members, sharing knowledge and contributing to a positive team dynamic. His willingness to assist colleagues has fostered a supportive work environment.
– Comments by Maheswaran Biratheeban, IT Manager
November Host of the Month | Service Provider: GURPREET SINGH
Gurpreet is a hardworking host who joined us as a maintenance helper. He has a keen interest in learning mechanical and engineering-related work. Although he was new to inboard and outboard engines, with guidance from our technical team, he was trained to perform minor maintenance on all boat engines and generators. Now, he is trained and capable of troubleshooting minor issues on all our boats.
– Comments by Azim Shareef, Chief Engineer
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort (OWK)
November Host of the Month: JUDY LIN
Judy Lin has been a part of the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort family since October 2010. In that time, she has proven to be a hard worker and a dedicated host by demonstrating a strong work ethic.
Judy goes above and beyond in whatever is asked of her to provide the best service to our guests and the department. Our guests love and trust her. She delivers what is important in her daily tasks to make every day a better day for our guests. Judy involves our guests in her housekeeping and anticipates what their needs will be in service, exceeding expectations. She far exceeds guest expectations by making them feel warm and welcome.
We all know that Judy is thorough and provides great guest service consistently.
Below are guest comments we received on TripAdvisor. Her efforts benefit the entire department by setting an example and inspiring her co-workers.
TripAdvisor 5 Stars!
Good Experience (10/30/23): The room was nice and the location was good. We stayed there for 7 nights. Our house cleaner Judy was very friendly and she took care of our room very well, changing the sheets/towels every day and keeping the room very tidy.
Above & Beyond Expectations (11/4/23): Enjoyed every moment. Right on the beach. Easy access to excursions. Elevator system easy and secure. Surprised by Steve, General Manager, with an anniversary gift. Judy, our host, went above and beyond our expectations. Thank you for making our visit special. Mahalo!
Engagement Celebration Perfection (11/3/23): I am not someone who typically takes the time to write a review. However, in this instance, I had such a great time that I had to. The view and sounds of the ocean every morning were spectacular. Staying on the beach and having immediate access was so convenient and nice. The hotel is close to everything in Waikiki. We were able to walk around and shop/eat/play anywhere and everywhere. Dukes and Hula Grill were nothing short of outstanding food and service, every single time. We had a small issue with our original room and it was handled immediately by the “A-team” at the front desks. Finally, Judy, our host, was amazing. Remembering my name when she deals with probably hundreds of rooms was such a nice touch. The room was always immaculate even after tracking in the sand like I was making a castle in my room. Thank you for putting up with us, Judy! We were celebrating an engagement and had such a great time we want to come back for the honeymoon. Thank you.
Will Be Back (11/26/23): First time in Hawaii and staying at the Outrigger Beach Resort. Wow! What a fantastic holiday we’ve had. Great hotel and wonderful customer service. Also, amazing customer service from everyone but especially Mikayla at the front desk and Judy the house cleaner. Definitely will be back.
– Nominated by Mechael Tapanan, Housekeeping Manager
Mahalo and congratulations to Host of the Month nominees: Kong Ng and Pearl Jaoquin.
Congratulations to our ICare card recipients: Rick Damo, Sai Zhuan Liang and Xi Ping Wu and to TripAdvisor Most Name Mentions Judy Lin.
Malama Our Hosts
The OWK ‘ohana enjoyed manapua, thanks to General Manager Steve Miller who spread a little joy this holiday season.
We are thankful to our hosts who continue to share genuine aloha to each other, our guests and our place.
