1. You have been with Kaimoo since 2013 and played a significant role in the pre-opening of Summer Island Maldives. Can you share some of the key moments from your journey?

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Being involved in the transformation of Summer Island Maldives has been a truly rewarding experience. One of the most memorable moments was taking an older property and reimagining it as a contemporary, stylish resort while preserving the natural beauty and charm that guests loved. It was a challenge to balance innovation with authenticity, but it provided the opportunity to shape a new guest experience.

Another defining moment was building a team that shared our vision for exceptional hospitality at Summer Island Maldives. From day one, we emphasised a guest-first approach, sustainability, and innovation. Seeing our team develop and take pride in their roles has been incredibly fulfilling.

2. Summer Island Maldives is celebrating 10 years of operations. Looking back, what achievement are you most proud of?

It’s hard to pick just one, but I am immensely proud of how Summer Island Maldives has positioned itself as an eco-conscious, guest-centric resort while maintaining an authentic Maldivian experience. Our commitment to sustainability has been acknowledged globally, and we’ve pioneered initiatives like the world’s first and largest 3D-printed coral reef, recognised by Guinness World Records, which has made a meaningful impact on marine conservation.

Beyond that, the culture we’ve built — where guests feel at home and our team members feel valued — is something I take great pride in. The fact that we see returning guests year after year and watch our team grow within the company is something I deeply value.

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3. Sustainability is a core value at Summer Island Maldives. What are some impactful initiatives the resort has implemented, and what difference have they made?

Sustainability is woven into everything we do. One of our most groundbreaking projects has been the 3D-printed coral reef, which has helped support marine biodiversity in our waters. By experimenting with new ways to restore coral ecosystems, we aim to contribute to long-term conservation efforts.

We have also significantly reduced single-use plastics by introducing refillable glass water bottles, eco-friendly toiletries, and sustainable alternatives to plastic straws and packaging. Our solar energy initiatives and focus on locally sourced produce further reduce our carbon footprint.

But sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s also about people. We invest in training and development programmes to ensure our team grows alongside the resort, fostering a culture of responsibility and care for both nature and community.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve overcome in your career, and some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned throughout the years?

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One of the biggest challenges was navigating the ever-changing hospitality landscape, particularly through global challenges like the pandemic. Leading Summer Island Maldives through uncertain times required adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to both our guests and our team.

Another challenge has been breaking barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. I’ve learned that perseverance, passion, and a dedicated team are key to overcoming any obstacle. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that leadership is about listening, learning, and empowering others.

5. As a female leader in the Maldivian hospitality industry, how have you worked to empower women within Summer Island Maldives?

Empowering women starts with creating opportunities, and at Kaimoo, we’re committed to supporting the recruitment, training, and career growth of women across all roles. From operational staff to leadership positions, we provide a platform where women feel valued and encouraged to take on leadership roles.

We’ve worked to shift perceptions about women in hospitality by showing that success is defined by dedication, passion, and skill, not gender. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see more women step into management roles and thrive at Kaimoo.

6. How will Summer Island Maldives grow and evolve in the coming decade?

The next decade will be about deepening our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and guest experience. We plan to expand our eco-friendly initiatives, introducing more renewable energy solutions, expanding conservation projects, and integrating even more locally sourced, sustainable products into our operations.

Technology will also play a key role in enhancing guest experiences while maintaining our warm, human touch. Personalised digital services, AI-driven sustainability solutions, and seamless eco-conscious travel will shape the future of Summer Island Maldives.

Ultimately, the goal for Summer Island Maldives is to remain a pioneer in responsible tourism — creating unforgettable experiences for our guests while protecting the pristine beauty of the Maldives for future generations.