Mere Matavesi is the Senior Reservations specialist at the Toorak Central Hospitality in Suva.

She is responsible for bookings at the venue’s accommodation, administrative work, and overseeing the junior staff at Toorak Central.

Originally from Savudrodro Village in Savusavu, the mum of three has spent almost her entire career in the hospitality sector.

She previously worked at some of Savusavu’s luxury resorts, including Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji and Namale Resort and Spa.

“It’s a big challenge managing the accommodation department,” Ms Matavesi said on her experience at the Suva establishment.

“Without accommodation, we don’t have guests.”

The 46-year-old also says working under the guidance of managing director, Julianne Verma, allowed her to grow as a hospitality professional.

“She’s more of a role model to me, and I’ve learnt a lot,” she said.

Ms Matavesi shared some insight with SunBiz about her career, her favourite food to eat, and top travel destinations in Fiji.

What Do You Enjoy About Your Day Job? 

I love the team that we have here at Toorak Central.

The staff are friendly.

We help each other out.

There’s someone there if you need a shoulder to cry on and encouragement.

Toorak Central.

What Is Your Favourite Food On The Menu At Eleve? 

Pasta carbonara and my favourite drink is kumquat spritz.

Pasta Carbonara

What Are Your Favourite Travel Destinations In Fiji? 

I would recommend Savusavu to first-time visitors.

They should try going to Nawi Island, the hot springs, see the Waisali and Vuadomo waterfalls, and the Salt Lake.

Salt Lake in Savusavu, Vanualevu.

What’s One Local Destination On Top Of Your Bucketlist? 

I want to visit the Bouma Waterfalls in Taveuni, I haven’t been to it yet.

Bouma Waterfall in Taveuni Island.

What Makes Fiji An Attractive Destination For Travel And To Do Business? 

The people. We are so unique.

That’s the feedback I get from guests at the resorts I used to work at – that it’s the people that bring them back to Fiji, as well as the love that we have, Bula smiles, and how welcoming we are towards visitors.

Fijians entertain tourists, Fijians greet tourists with songs, Some staff of a Fijian resort.

Feedback: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj