LEADERSHIP is an act of service. Tewaka Travel Services team leader Kolora Mason shared this after receiving the 2025 Dixon Seeto Tourism Leader Award at the 2025 ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards.
“One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt in this journey is taking the time to listen and hear my team members out,” said Mrs Mason.
“This small gesture makes them ‘feel’ seen and valued.
“We have to appreciate that as a leader you are only as strong as the team you lead.”
Mrs Mason also acknowledged the significance of the award and the person it was named after, the late Dixon Seeto.
“The late Dixon Seeto was a force to be reckoned with in our industry, but he was also one of the kindest and down-to-earth people you will ever meet.
“Dixon made the time for everyone and a strong advocate for tourism growth particularly during very trying times. That in itself are big shoes to fill particularly now in a time and season where the world feels so disconnected.
“To be recognised at a national level affirms the hard work, sacrifices, and passion that have gone into my journey in tourism.
“It also represents the support of my mentors, colleagues, family, and community who believed in me along the way.”
She said the award was not just a recognition of past achievements, but motivation to continue raising standards, mentoring others, and contributing to the sustainable growth of Fiji’s tourism industry.
“This industry is hard work and when a crisis happens, we are without a doubt one of the first to be hit the hardest however, it is also one of the most resilient and most rewarding industries.
“I am extremely blessed that our company owners invest heavily into ensuring that our team is looked after well.
“This contributes significantly to overall employment fulfillment and enjoyment. This has also what has kept me going.”
With her family as her biggest inspiration, Mrs Mason hopes to leave behind a legacy that would make them proud and to continue to lead her team to more success.
“My children, Elijah, Maika and Hannah and my dearest husband Anthony who is my enabler inspire me to provide better for them and my continued tenure with TEWAKA allows me to do this.
“Behind the scenes there is an amazing team of young, Fijian talent and I acknowledge my little, but powerful team of women that I have the privilege of leading — Moana Niafe, Mere Naqei and Marama Pio.
“I am guided and mentored by two of the most passionate Fijians I know in Lala and James Sowane.
“They have been such a huge part of my professional journey and both professional and personal accomplishments.”
The Voice Australia semi-finalist Joseph Vuicakau (middle) performed at the ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort and Spa in Wailoaloa, Nadi. Picture: REINAL CHAND
MESOVU (Fiji PTE) LTD representatives Sangeeta Devi (left), Beatrice Nast (Director) and Elisabeth Koini won the Specialised Tourism Services Award during the ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards 2025 held at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa in Wailoaloa, Nadi. Picture: REINAL CHAND
Visionary Award recipients Janice Hinton and Mark Hinton during the ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards 2025 held at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa in Wailoaloa Nadi. Picture: REINAL CHAND
