Fiji is known as the “isle of smiles” and Elena Qereqeretabua is always ready with a smile as the Assistant Front Office Manager at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. 

Elena joined the Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa in 2015 as a temporary guest service agent. She was hired on a provisional basis and needed to demonstrate her commitment to excellence to be hired for the permanent position. She was determined to meet that challenge and was soon selected from among several other temporary associates for the permanent role. Since then, she has moved from role to role across hotels in Fiji to understand all aspects of hotel operations (e.g., Finance, Reservations, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping) and how she can best care for associates and guests.

Hotel associates and leaders know they can always count on Elena to be the calm and positive force whenever challenges arise. Earlier this year, the island experienced historic flooding affecting many associates’ ability to get to and from work. Elena lives just ten minutes from the hotel and willingly opened her home to associates needing a safe place to stay.

The hotel is often at full capacity so managing the many needs of guests keeps Elena busy throughout her day. Last November, an issue arose with a family staying at the hotel for a wedding. The groom-to-be was seriously injured after an altercation with a family member. Elena sprang into action to ensure he received immediate medical attention and then quickly turned her attention to supporting the family, including arranging for the bride-to-be to visit her fiancé in the hospital over the next four days. When the groom was discharged from the hospital, Elena coordinated with the security team to aid him in standing at the altar. Thanks to Elena’s fearlessness in the face of significant challenges, the couple was able to get married as planned.

Elena and her husband operate a farm, which provides for their extended family, community and the local market. Her workday does not end when she leaves the hotel, instead she arrives home to help with farm duties and care for her three young children—all with a smile on her face.