1.Tell us a bit about your journey in the hospitality industry and what you love most about what you do?

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My journey in hospitality has taken me across many countries, including Turkey, the UK, the Middle East, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and now back to the Maldives again. Along the way, I have had the privilege of experiencing diverse cultures and traditions, each of which has shaped the way I view hospitality and people.

What I truly love most about my role is the opportunity to help people grow. Identifying talent, nurturing it, and sharing my knowledge and life experiences with others is incredibly fulfilling. To watch colleagues, develop, thrive, and achieve their goals is one of the greatest rewards of this industry—and it’s what continues to inspire me every day.

2. A relaxing spa experience completes the perfect island holiday. How does Niva Velassaru Maldives keep its wellness offerings unique and worth coming back for?

At  Niva Velassaru, we see wellness as a way to restore balance between body, mind, and spirit. That’s why we keep evolving our offerings to give guests experiences that feel both refreshing and lasting.

One of the newest additions is our Barre and Pilates Studio. Guests can join Reformer Pilates classes that build flexibility, core strength, and posture, with mindful breathing built into each session. We also offer barre workouts, which bring together ballet-inspired movement and Pilates to tone and strengthen the body.

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At the overwater spa, we’ve introduced ELEMIS Biotec 2.0 facials, which use six advanced technologies for visible results. Our signature Expert Tech Sculpt + Firm Facial is especially popular, leaving the skin fresh, lifted, and radiant.

For me, what makes it special is the mix of high-performance fitness, advanced skincare, and the natural calm of the island. Guests leave feeling renewed, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

3.  Food is the highlight of every holiday. What are some of the guest-favourite dishes at Niva Velassaru Maldives, and how does your culinary team continue to elevate the dining experience?

When it comes to dining experiences, we try to capture the soul of the island. Food is a significant part of the experience. So, our chefs take pride in creating dishes that reflect both authenticity and innovation, transforming every meal into a memorable moment.

We have five restaurants and two bars, each with its own personality. Etesian is a favourite for Mediterranean dining, perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration. Sora offers Japanese and Nikkei cuisines, from sashimi and tempura to octopus nigiri and scallops in soy butter. Sand is all about barefoot dining by the water’s edge, while Turquoise focuses on seasonal plates and local seafood. Vela is more relaxed, with global flavours for breakfast or dinner. Fen Bar and Chill Bar are where guests love to unwind with cocktails and music.

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And for something more personal, we also offer Private Dining and the Niva Velassaru Indulgence experience, which is fully tailored to each guest.

4. As a top honeymoon destination, Maldives is filled with romance. Can you share some of the special moments that your team has curated?

Niva Velassaru is a very romantic place by nature, with its beaches, lagoons, and sunsets. But what makes it special is how we help couples create their own memories here.

We’ve seen some beautiful proposals, from candlelit dinners by the sea to picnics on a private sandbank or even a sunset cruise on a traditional Dhoni. For weddings, our team takes care of everything, from the flowers to the dining, so couples can simply enjoy the moment. And when guests come back to renew their vows, we design the ceremony to reflect their personal story.

It’s these intimate details that make each celebration unique. Every couple experience Niva Velassaru in their own way, and that’s something we’re very proud of.

5. Can you share some of Niva Velassaru Maldives’ sustainability and marine conservation efforts, and the immersive experiences guests can enjoy during their stay?

Our marine environment is the soul of the island, so protecting it has always been important to us. Our Coral Conservation Project, led by our resident marine biologist Tisha Smiljanic, is focused on preserving and rebuilding the reef.

One of the highlights is the Coral Dome, a six-metre-wide artificial reef located ten metres below the surface. It has become home to corals, tropical fish, turtles, and even reef sharks. Guests who want to get involved can join restoration sessions with Tisha, where they help transplant coral fragments and adopt their own coral frame. We send photo updates every two years, so they can watch their coral grow even after they’ve left.

At our Coral Aquarium in the Immersive Dive Centre, guests can also see resilient species up close and learn about the research being done here. It’s an experience that inspires people and helps them understand why protecting these ecosystems matters.

6. What is your favourite way to enjoy the island on your day off?

On my days off, I love spending time in our gardens. I like to say I have “green hands,” as everything I touch seems to grow! Together with our Chief Gardener, I’ve taken on the challenge of planting pineapple, avocado, pomegranate, and even dates here on the island. Watching them take root and flourish is incredibly rewarding. For me, it’s not just about the harvest—it’s about creating a living connection with the island’s natural beauty. Every new leaf and fruit reminds me how special this environment is, and I hope our guests feel that same sense of wonder when they walk through Niva Velassaru’s lush greenery.