Fathimath Aseela: Passionate F&B management at Vakkaru Maldives

Fathimath Aseela has carved out a name for herself as a dedicated and accomplished Outlet Manager at Vakkaru Maldives. With over a decade of experience, she has risen through the ranks, showcasing a steadfast commitment to delivering memorable guest experiences. Aseela’s journey from a hostess to a leader in food and beverage (F&B) management is a story of passion, resilience, and an unrelenting drive for excellence.

Aseela’s career began in 2014 when she joined Kurumba Maldives as a hostess. Her passion for guest service and hospitality quickly became evident, propelling her through various roles, including restaurant captain at Kurumba Maldives and assistant restaurant manager at Cora Cora Maldives. “My passion for guest service and hospitality led me through various roles. Ultimately, I became a restaurant manager at Sirru Fen Fushi Maldives, consistently driven by a commitment to excellence and continuous learning,” she recalls.

Throughout her career, Aseela has remained focused on continuous growth. Her rise to the position of Outlet Manager at Vakkaru Maldives is a testament to her determination and willingness to learn. She emphasises the importance of embracing challenges and adapting to new environments, a mindset that has helped her thrive in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.

A pivotal moment in Aseela’s journey came in 2013 while working in a boutique shop. She often encountered guests who shared their heartfelt resort memories, highlighting how exceptional service had left a lasting impression. This inspired her to explore a career in the food and beverage sector. “I was captivated by the restaurant concepts and the high level of service, which inspired me to pursue a career in food and beverage,” Aseela shares. This curiosity turned into a deep passion as she began to understand the intricacies of F&B management.

For Aseela, the joy of working in the F&B sector lies in creating unique and unforgettable dining experiences for guests. “Creating memorable guest experiences fuelled my enthusiasm, whether it was adapting to evolving guest preferences, staying ahead of trends, or managing economic pressures,” she notes. Aseela thrives on the dynamic nature of the industry, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities to exceed guest expectations.

Aseela’s journey has not been without its challenges, but she has faced each with determination. Having worked at prestigious resorts like Sirru Fen Fushi Maldives and Cora Cora Maldives, she has gathered valuable lessons in leadership and management. “The most important lesson I’ve learned as a restaurant manager is that it’s fundamentally a discipline. It requires a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining high service standards while catering to a diverse and discerning clientele,” she explains.

Leading diverse, multicultural teams has taught Aseela the importance of communication and cultural sensitivity. She believes that effective leadership is about setting an example for others to follow and fostering a collaborative work environment. “A key to successful management is leading by example, becoming a role model to inspire and motivate others,” she says. Her approach to leadership focuses on nurturing her team, providing support, and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement.

Managing F&B operations in a resort setting comes with unique challenges, from motivating staff to ensuring seamless collaboration between the front-of-house and kitchen teams. Aseela emphasises the importance of recognising each team member’s individual strengths and fostering a positive work environment. “The main challenge is keeping staff motivated to overcome this, it requires creating a positive work environment through team-building activities and mentoring each individual,” she explains.

Aseela’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident in her focus on training and development. She takes the time to observe her team closely, offering personalised training plans and regular feedback. “I tailor personalised training plans to meet their specific needs, ensuring they are equipped to grow and succeed,” she says. By investing in her team’s growth, she ensures that they are well-prepared to provide exceptional service, which directly contributes to the overall success of the resort.

For Aseela, the secret to delivering an unforgettable dining experience lies in the details. She believes that understanding guests’ preferences from the moment they make their reservation allows her to create a personalised experience that exceeds their expectations. “Attention to detail is crucial. By doing so, we can tailor the service to meet the individual needs and expectations of each guest,” she highlights.

This commitment to personalisation is what sets Aseela apart as an F&B leader. She strives to ensure that every guest feels valued and experiences a level of service that is both thoughtful and memorable. It is this attention to detail that has earned her the respect and trust of both her team and the guests she serves.

Aseela sees a few key trends shaping the future of food and beverage management, particularly in the Maldives. The demand for locally sourced ingredients is one such trend, reflecting a growing focus on sustainability. “By prioritising local sourcing, we enhance the freshness and quality of our offerings while positively impacting the community,” Aseela says. She believes that supporting local producers not only benefits the environment but also enriches the guest experience.

Aseela also recognises the role of technology in modernising the hospitality industry. Embracing digital ordering systems and innovative kitchen equipment can streamline operations and enhance guest satisfaction. “Leveraging new technologies can streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and improve overall efficiency,” she notes.

Aseela is passionate about sharing her knowledge with young professionals. She encourages aspiring hoteliers to embrace the opportunities within the hospitality sector and maintain a positive attitude. “I urge you to maintain a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude. Focus on developing your skills by staying informed about global trends,” she advises.

She also emphasises the importance of practical experience for young people entering the industry. Aseela advocates for work experience programs that provide students with real-world exposure before they graduate. “When graduates enter the workforce with practical knowledge and a clear understanding of the hospitality environment, they can hit the ground running,” she adds.

Aseela’s journey from a curious boutique shop assistant to an accomplished Outlet Manager at Vakkaru Maldives is a story of passion, hard work, and unwavering dedication to guest service. Her leadership style, rooted in empathy and continuous learning, has made her a respected figure in the Maldivian hospitality industry. She remains committed to elevating the standards of service in the F&B sector, inspiring the next generation of hospitality leaders along the way.