If you happen to walk into élevé café, located at Suva’s Toorak Central, it would be almost impossible to miss Melanie Rabaka’s warm smile.
The 39-year-old’s passion for service delivery has come to define 11 more than a decade of dedication to the food and beverage industry.
Originally from Nakelo in Tailevu, with maternal links to Kadavu, her drive and commitment in the industry is driven by an upbringing centered on service and duty.
“For me, I love to serve people,” she said.
“Especially growing up, serving at home, that’s where it started.”
That early grounding has evolved into a career that has seen her work across a number of cafés in Suva, building a reputation as one of the country’s most experienced baristas.
But for Melanie, the job goes far beyond making coffee.
“Every day is a learning day,” she said.
“I get to meet new people, experience different personalities, and learn new things all the time.”
Even on difficult days, she maintains that professionalism and positivity are essential.
“I have to keep a smile on my face every day, even though I might be having a hard time,” she said.
“When you walk in the door, you hang your problems there and just try to smile.”
It is this commitment to customer service that she believes sets the tone not only for her work, but for the entire industry.
“Sometimes people come in having a bad day.”
“With your service, you can change that for them. That’s why customer service is very important, it draws people in,” she explained.
Her perspective reflects years of experience in an industry where, she says, the human connection often matters just as much as the product itself.
Melanie hopes to take her passion a step further by trying her hand at entrepreneurship when the time is right.
“Maybe I would like to run my own business someday, opening up a café,” she said.
She hopes to create a space where customers not only receive quality service but where young budding enthusiasts can work in to gain experience and be inspired.
To young people considering a similar path, her advice is simple but firm: “Always believe in yourself and keep chasing your dreams.
“If you have a passion for it, everything will just come into shape.”
To like-minded individuals who are passionate about customer service and hospitality, Melanie says to stay focused while on the job, not to be shy and embrace innovation.
“Keep chasing your dreams.”
