Kimaya Group celebrates major wins at World Travel Awards

Kimaya Fiji’s managing director Damend Gounder says its international tourism success has been driven by its staff culture.

While celebrating staff at Kimaya Fiji’s annual awards night at Landers Bay Resort and Spa in Vuda, Lautoka, last Saturday, Mr Gounder credited employees with helping secure major recognition at the 2025 World Travel Awards.

Hideaway Resort and Spa, managed by the Kimaya Group, won Fiji’s Leading Family Resort and Oceania’s Leading Family Resort, while Yatule Resort and Spa secured Fiji’s Leading Resort title.

Tour Managers Fiji was also named Fiji’s Leading Tour Operator and recently ranked among the top 10 per cent of tour operators worldwide for customer experience.

Mr Gounder told staff their dedication had transformed the company from humble beginnings into one of Fiji’s leading tourism and hospitality groups.

“This recognition belongs to you. It’s an asset you have created. It’s an asset that has been recognised, and that asset is simply a culture of good service, honesty and dedication,” he said.

Mr Gounder said employees remained the heartbeat of the organisation’s growth across Fiji’s tourism industry.

“This is not just about getting together or about awards and recognition. It is about people, resilience, commitment and heart,” he said.

“From humble beginnings as Tour Managers Fiji to becoming an award-winning hospitality and tourism group operating resorts, transport services, tours, weddings, events, wellness initiatives and community programmes, this journey has only been possible because of you.”

The event celebrated workers from businesses under the Kimaya Group, including Tour Managers Fiji, Yatule Resort and Spa, Hideaway Resort and Spa, Landers Bay Resort and Spa, and Paradise Bride.

Mr Gounder said every role within the company contributed to guest experience and business success.

“Our guests are the lifeblood of the business, and every day you provide the energy, care, warmth, safety and service that keeps this heart beating strong.”

He also urged staff to remain disciplined amid rising operational costs and increasing competition in the tourism sector.

“In difficult times, guests remember how we made them feel.

“They remember the smile at check-in, the warmth of greeting, the attention to detail, and the feeling of being welcomed as family.

“Our service vision is creating joyful memories the Kimaya way. It is not just a slogan; it is a commitment, a promise and a culture,” he said.

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