Inclusion and Equality Celebrations Abound on International Women’s Day
On March 8, 2024 at OUTRIGGER properties across the globe, hosts commemorated International Women’s Day in their own special way. The global celebration is a time to honor women’s achievements, raise awareness about women’s rights and gender equality, and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable world.
To honor these core values, which OUTRIGGER supports through its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, hosts wore purple and gathered together in unity. At OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort in Thailand (TKL), they even turned the special day into a weeklong initiative called ‘Let’s Inspire Inclusions.’
“The event kicked off March 1, and all our hosts played a crucial role by contributing sanitary and female necessities to benefit female prisoners at Takuapa District Prisons as part of our commitment to empowering and uplifting women within our community,” explained TKL Rresort Manager, Sujittra Rongmuang. “Our hosts wrote heartfelt messages on the cards in hopes the gesture and thoughts would significantly impact their lives, showing them that they are not forgotten.”
To culminate the week of compassion and inclusion, TKL hosts then shared a carton of milk, a symbolic gesture of goodwill.
At OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort (FOR), the celebration was highlighted by a delightful cake cutting ceremony accompanied by a heartwarming tea session featuring a selection of delicious pastries. The cake, adorned with elegant decorations, stood as a sweet representation of the diversity and strength that each woman brings to FOR’s professional family. The celebration provided an opportunity for open conversations about the significance of International Women’s Day and the importance of fostering a workplace culture that promotes equality, inclusivity and based on the theme “Inspire Inclusion.”
Nearby at Castaway Island, Fiji (FCI) hosts joined together to recognize the invaluable role that women play in our society, both locally and globally.
“We understand the importance of creating an inclusive environment where women are supported, valued, and given equal opportunities to thrive,” said Priya Sharma, sales and marketing manager. “Through our International Women’s Day celebration, we aim to honor the remarkable achievements of women while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender parity.”
To commemorate the occasion, Castaway Island, Fiji’s HR Manager, Waseroma Baleinamaka, orchestrated a series of events and initiatives aimed at honoring and empowering women. These activities commenced with early morning Zumba and power walks, followed by a special breakfast exclusively for female hosts. As the day unfolded, guests joined the festivities at Mokimokiti, where activities & environment manager, Kolinio Vulaono, delivered an appreciation speech. The celebration continued with cake cutting and tea, providing an opportunity for guests to interact with the hosts, followed by a beachside tug of war and a tranquil sunset cruise tailored for our female hosts.
Castaway Island, Fiji resort General Manager, Mr. Steven Andrews commented that, “As a resort, we are proud to celebrate International Women’s Day, honoring the strength, diversity, and invaluable contributions of our female staff and guests. It’s a day that reflects our commitment to fostering an environment of equality, respect, and empowerment for women, not just within the heart of our island, but throughout the world. Together, we’re not just marking a date on the calendar; we’re weaving the principles of inclusivity and recognition into the fabric of our daily lives.”
They were “Celebrating Sisterhood” on International Women’s Day at the OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort (MAM).
“When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world,” said HR Officer, Ayaasha Ishaaq. “When women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance. Empowering and including women in every sphere—be it in leadership roles, tech fields, or creative endeavors—enriches societies with diverse perspectives, fostering innovation and empathy. Every woman’s success should be seen as a collective victory for humanity, inspiring generations to come.”
Ishaaq added that embracing inclusion means actively removing barriers, encouraging participation, and valuing the unique contributions of women everywhere.
“Here at MAM, we work together to build a place where every woman’s potential is recognized, celebrated, and utilized, creating a more equitable, vibrant, and inclusive future for all,” said Ishaaq.
The Hawaiian Islands were also full of color on International Women’s Day, most particularly purple, as hosts from every property joined in the spirit of the day and struck the #InspireInclusion pose to show solidarity.
“When we truly value difference, inclusion comes from the heart,” said Pila Hansen, Director, Organizational Development.
Please take the time to browse through the gallery below, featuring hundreds of hosts from around the world committed to gender equity and inclusion for all.
Embassy Suites by Hilton – Waikiki Beach Walk (WBW)
BY KA‘IMI KALEI — Congratulations to our Housekeeping Coordinator, Samantha Jumawan, and our two Food & Beverage Supervisors, David Nohara Jr., and Ethan Kimura who recently graduated from the OUTRIGGER Supervisory Skills program. We are excited to see these already amazing leaders put their new skills and knowledge to work!
Pictured: Shantel Burns, Ethan Kimura, Samantha Jumawan, Simeon Miranda, Roland Kam, David Nohara Jr. & Carol Lopes
I Love OUTRIGGER #SUITEstakes
As the month of February is filled with love, the I Love OUTRIGGER #SUITEstakes was a delightful way to share and express our gratitude for the company. Congratulations to the Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk winner, Llezle Peralta from the Housekeeping department who won a $100 Foodland Gift Card.
Malama our Hosts
Mahalo to our Guest Services Manager, Maya Jenkins for providing savory chocolate sweets to our hosts.
Hawaii Food Bank
Thank you to our hosts who helped volunteer their time with the Hawaii Foodbank on Saturday, March 16. Our volunteers joined New Hope Leeward, the Marines, and many other organizations to help pack almost 2,000 food packages for kupuna in need. These packages will be distributed to both Oahu and Kauai in the month of April.
OHANA Waikiki East by OUTRIGGER (OEH)
February Host of the Month: MARILOU
Marilou has been very instrumental in making our temporary front desk, into the front desk it is now by setting up all of the supplies and items needed to make our old laundromat into a functioning front desk. Marilou has stepped up to the plate when needed as MOD, taken charge of Hawaiian Airlines Pilot meal voucher program making sure all meal coupons have been created and payments have been posted.
Marilou has also been instrumental in making meal coupons for arriving groups. She is willing to change her schedule to accommodate our staffing needs whether it be taking on an extra shift or staying longer than her scheduled time. Marilou has received many I-care nominations from her peers, which shows she is a team player. She has been instrumental in adding in the reservation blocks for our Fiji crews monthly. Marilou is also recognized quite frequently as our “Upgrade Champion” selling upgrades in NOR1.
– Nominated by Denise Pina Torres
Congratulations to ICare Card recipients John Balok, Cassandra Mercer, Vincent Meza, and Florante Ravago.
OUTRIGGER Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel (OKB)
February Host of the Month: May Bautista
BY WENDY MUNETAKE – Put your hands together for December’s shining star, May Bautista, our remarkable Housekeeper. May’s infectious positivity and team spirit have earned her this well-deserved recognition. In the spirit of the holiday season, May didn’t hesitate to give back, volunteering her precious day off to raise funds for the Housekeeping holiday party to ensure a joyful celebration for all.
Her commitment to teamwork shines brightly, jumping in to help whenever needed. When faced with staffing challenges, May takes on the leadership role of rallying her fellow hosts to team up with her to clean additional rooms. May’s unwavering commitment to our values of Celebration, Accountability, Relationships, and Excellence truly embodies the Outrigger Way. Congratulation May, on your fantastic achievement.
Let’s also give it up for Arlene Antonio, our January 2024 standout! Arlene, our dedicated Rooms Clerk, embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and constantly seeks new ways to improve. Having recently taken the initiative to learn Birchstreet is just one example of her proactive approach to ensuring our housekeeping operations run smoothly. Arlene doesn’t just meet expectations; she exceeds them and infuses work with passion and genuine care for our guests, turning guest experiences into heartwarming memories.
Having a knack for creative balloon decorations, Arlene transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories wowing guest upon arrival. Guests are touched by her sweet and thoughtful gesture and will seek her out to express their gratitude. Mahalo Arlene for being a shining example of excellence and leadership!
A big round of applause goes out to our December and January nominees Roy Tapec (Engineering), Melchor Agcaoili (Food & Beverage), Mahealani Lagrimas-Melendez (Kawenaokeao) and Romeo Castro (Engineering) who’s hard work and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed!
OKB Ka’a Kō’ono Refreshment Cart “Pops” Up Again
BY MELODY THOMAS – The Ka’a Kō’ono refreshment cart was on the move once more; this time delivering a tasty popcorn snack and refreshing bottle of water to our hardworking hosts! On March 13th the cart, enveloped in bubbles, lively music, and dancing made its way around property continuing to infuse fun into the workplace and showing appreciation for our awesome team!
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort (MAM)
BY AYAASHA ISHAAQ – At our all-host meeting on March 7, we revealed HOM honorees for Heart of the House, Front of the House and Service Provider. The meeting was started with a special message from our Resort Manager, Guillaume Charles Anne De Lasteyrie Du Saillant. Certificates for the winners were handed over by our Director of Revenue Management, Limna Augustine, and the gathering was followed with a special tea party celebrating birthdays of February.
February Host of the Month (HOM), Front of House: PRADIP KUMAR PAUDEL
Pradip shows a strong work ethic by consistently staying until all daily tasks are completed. He has an excellent attendance record. Pradip have shown high level of flexibility in his role, often stepping outside his comfort zone to meet team needs. . He supports others in fulfilling their tasks and always ready to help others.
He shows pride in work, going above and beyond to ensure excellence. He demonstrates a high level of proficiency and knowledge in his work resulting in superior quality outcomes. Pradip always provides courteous and professional services. Often his name comes in social platforms regarding his quality of work and his professionalism.
– Nominated by Abdulla Azleef, Assistant F&B Manager
February HOM, Heart of House: DIPAK GURUNG
Dipak was nominated for his exceptional performance during the month of February. He has demonstrated remarkable skill by guiding and supporting the engineering team to complete day-to-day tasks. Always maintain good relationships with all departments, prioritize work, and complete tasks within the given period.
Nominated by Ismail Aseel | Maintenance Manager
February HOM, Service Provider: MATISH GHOSH
The reason why we have selected Mr. Matish Ghosh Minibar Clerk as Service Provider of the Month of February is because of the authentic comments from our host in different departments and his commitment to his duties. The way he communicates with his fellow hosts is very professional. He also keeps a close relation with the front office to ensure smooth operation. He is punctual on his duties and manages guest requests on time. I am so happy to have him in the department, and whenever I ask him to do additional tasks he never disappoints, rather he shows willingness and positiveness always.
Nominated by Adam| Housekeeper
MAM also awarded a special Moment of Truth Award to Mohamed Riyaz Yoosuf for his dedication to OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort. Congratulations and mahalo to all honorees and HOM nominees Maka Iosua, Hanna Liang, Stuart Nakai, Mikko Requina and Ron Terrado.
Maahefun 1445
MAM also recently celebrated Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Muslims around the world. To start this holy month, Muslims gather around and enjoy a huge feast also known as Maahefun In Dhivehi. Different varieties of short eats and Maldivians delicacies were served during Maahefun, including Bajiya, Tuna Rolls, Masroshi, Biskimiya, Kavaabu, Gulha, Cutlas, Rihafoli, Tuna Buns, Pirini, and Bodibah.
Reeling in Unity: The Power of a Staff Fishing Trip
BY AYAASHA ISHAAQ – In the modern workplace, where deadlines loom and stress levels soar, finding moments of respite and camaraderie becomes increasingly vital. Amidst the daily grind, a host fishing trip emerges as a beacon of relaxation, team bonding, and shared adventure. Far removed from boardrooms and desks, this outdoor escapade offered a refreshing opportunity for hosts to cast their lines, reel in memories, and foster unity in the embrace of nature’s tranquility.
As hosts share stories, laughter, and triumphs, they deepen their connections and build trust, laying the foundation for effective collaboration and teamwork. In the relaxed ambiance of the fishing trip, hierarchies blur, and barriers dissolve, fostering an environment of openness, respect, and mutual support. Hosts return to the workplace not only as teammates but as allies united by a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie.
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort (OWK)
John Gan
February Host of the Month: JOHN GAN
John will be celebrating his 7-year anniversary on March 13, and although he is mainly responsible for swing shift duties, Jon has assisted in a number of projects in addition to his daily duties for the past year. Examples include replacing all circulating hot water pumps for low zone and high zone, replacing the entire Makai stairwell LED light fixtures and replacing necessary fire exit lights. He is a great team player and guides each of our new team members to do their job the right way particularly for this hotel in each trade of our job. If there’s a night when we have call out, John is willing to pull a double shift. That’s how he cares for others. John always calls someone the next morning even though he has already written them down for the team to make sure someone is able to follow up with guests concerns such as a/c or a tub drain issue, especially when our guests had problems connecting to the Wi-Fi. For these reasons and more, John Gan deserved to be honored as OWK’s Host of the month.
– Nominated by Dustin Chen
Congratulations and mahalo to our Host of the Month Nominees: Malamalama Suyat (Front Desk) and Mark Moscoso (Housekeeping)
Congratulations to ICare Card recipients Joann Liu (Housekeeping), Derick Bagaoisan (Housekeeping), and Nicole Vaquilar (Front Desk)
Congratulations to Ricky Kuga (OPM) for most name mentions on TripAdvisor.
OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel (OBC)
BY JENNIFER YAMADA — The OBC ‘ohana held a VIP Party (Q1 All Host Meeting) earlier this month and to get ready for The OUTRIGGER Way Awards, we honored all of our 2023 Hosts of the Month and Managers of the Quarter. No celebration is complete without food, so we enjoyed items from Chun Wah Kam and a delicious chocolate dream cake from The Patisserie. GM Cecilia Hamao thanked our honorees and also shared property updates and safety/security information. Afterward, we segued into The OUTRIGGER Way Awards Viewing party. Congratulations to the winning hosts and properties!
Malama Our Hosts
It was Ice Cream for everyone on Employee Appreciation Day (March 1) at OBC.
