Let’s Go Local: It’s Hardwork And Faith For Inia Ratulevu
People are motivated by so many different factors.
It could be money, fame, or simply the need to survive.
Inia Ratulevu is inspired by his children and his desire to do them proud.
The Year 12 dropout, whose parents were hotel workers, was determined to achieve more and go farther in life.
From Shangri-La Yanuca Island and ServicePro International Tourism Hospitality Institute, to Octopus Resort, Holiday Inn and now Coffee Hub Suva as restaurant manager, Mr Ratulevu’s hard work and faith have helped him advance in a rewarding 13-year career in hospitality.
SunBiz sat down with the man from Cuvu, Nadroga to learn more about his favourite places in Fiji, the joys of working in hospitality, and what his professional ambitions are for the future.
What’s Your Favourite Place To Unwind And Relax?
Coffee Hub.
It’s relaxed and there are many people.
The Coffee Hub
What Are Your Menu Favourites At Coffee Hub?
Chicken quesadillas (pictured) and ginger tea.
Every day I come in, that [ginger tea] boosts my day. I used to love coffee, but ginger tea is better for you.
Chicken quesadillas
What’s Been Your Best Travel Experience In Fiji So Far?
South Sea Cruises.
You come away from home just to be on the boat and stay there for a night, it’s like heaven; it’s like paradise.
South Sea Cruises in the Mamanucas.
What’s The Best Part About Working In The Hospitality Sector?
You get to meet and get to know different kinds of people.
You get to know their culture. That’s what I love about it.
What’s The Biggest Lesson You’ve Learnt In Your Career?
The biggest lesson is not to get stuck in one place. For us Fijians, when we’re out in one place, we’re really down. What I’ve learnt is not to lose hope. Keep trying every day. The more you try, the harder it’ll become but the more it will open doors. Keep trusting God in whatever you do.
What Else Do You Want To Achieve Career-wise?
In two years time, I want to become an Operation manager and a general manager.
In the next two years, I want to look after three or four more outlets.
Feedback: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj
