SOMEONE once said “a smile is the universal welcome” — that is exactly what embraces you when you meet Rusiate Ratu for the first time.
The Rakiraki villager is one of the first faces you’ll get to meet at Volivoli Beach Resort, one of the last to bid you goodbye and one that you probably will never forget.
He joined the family-owned and operated resort some five years ago as a carpenter in the maintenance section but his friendliness and cordial personality moved him to front office where he now shuffles duties as security and porter.
“I started here as a carpenter but my boss got me out of maintenance because he believed my personality and smiles were better suited for a meet and greet job hence my move to front office.”
“I love my job because of the opportunity to meet people from different parts of the world, learn their way of life and share with them the warmth of Fijian hospitality and culture,” Rusiate said.
The father of four has worked in the hospitality industry since 2005.
His “meet and greet” duties is a natural extension of his charming personality and he believes this is important for orienting guests upon their arrival.
“Volivoli Beach Resort is a great place to holiday, enjoy Fiji’s natural environment and experience Fijian culture.”
“So every time I greet a guest for the first time, I treat it as a chance to showcase how friendly and welcoming Fijians are. This goes a long way in ensuring they not only enjoy their stay but also decide to visit again someday.”
Rusiate attended Nakauvadra High School and chose a career in the hospitality industry as a way of giving back to the province of Ra and supporting his family.
He has worked in a number of backpackers along Rakiraki’s Suncoast, famous for its bright skies, white sandy beaches and abundant sunshine.
