THE Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) has, for six decades, navigated through the unpredictable currents of nation-building and industry development.
Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) chief executive officer Fantasha Lockington stressed this in her address at the FHTA 60th anniversary last Friday – held following the FHTA’s annual general meeting.
She said the association was formed in 1965 by a small and passionate group of hoteliers who never gave up on the vision of forming a strong, united and thriving tourism industry.
“When you look back to where we started, a very small group of passionate hoteliers simply wanting to grow the industry, it’s very humbling to see how far we’ve come,” Ms Lockington said.
She said the FHTA had since grown into a respected national and regional body.
“I can very proudly say that it doesn’t matter what’s happening in government, we are recognised so much so that I will get an email, a phone call or a text message to ask if we want to have a say about something.”
Ms Lockington said the organisation should be very proud that it had been able to solidify its position as an important part of Fiji’s economic journey.
“The growth of Fiji’s tourism industry has outpaced expectations year after year.
“This momentum reminds us of the importance of strong leadership, relevant advocacy, and a shared commitment to sustainable growth. Our 60th anniversary is not just a milestone, but a moment to refocus our energy on the future.
“We’ve been saying for ages that the government hasn’t recognised how much the industry has contributed, and it took COVID for them to finally recognise that.
“So, this evening (Friday), this is what it’s all about, honouring people like you and everyone who came before us that paved the way.”
Ms Lockington said the milestone achievement was an opportunity for the ministry to look back and recommit to the work ahead.
“One of the things that we keep advocating for, fairness and inclusivity, is to be bold enough to challenge our data systems and to always strive for an industry that is resilient, sustainable, and world-class, because we compete with the rest of the world.
Tanoa Hotel Group Area General Manager Narend Kumar said Fiji’s tourism industry might seem relatively young and it had faced its share of storms.
“But despite that, we are stronger here, hopefully smarter, and even more connected than ever and that’s not just because of our experiences. It’s because of the people in the industry and, most of all, our members who believe in the power of working together. I look around this room and see the faces that have built this industry,” Mr Kumar said.
The occasion brought together members, industry stakeholders, and partners to reflect on six decades of collective progress, collaboration, and unwavering support for the tourism sector.
The AGM also formally confirmed the five newly-elected members of the FHTA board of directors: Azam Khan – Hexagon Group of Hotels; Carey Osborne – Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa; James McCann – Yasawa Island Resort & Spa; Jim Moore – Novotel Nadi & Suva; and Neeraj Chadha – Marriott International Inc.
Inset: Michael Dennis Snr (left) with Lorraine Evans, Robert Wade and Patrick Wong cut the cake for the 60th year anniversary. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
