Tour leaders trained to be Fiji’s cultural ambassadors

A skilled tour guide is more than a storyteller, says the permanent secretary for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Salaseini Daunabuna.

She said this after the ministry in partnership with Rosie Travel Academy and Tourism Fiji, concluded a two-daytour guide training programme at Savusavu last Thursday. The programme was to enhance service quality and professionalism across Fiji’s growing tourism sector.

She commended the initiative, noting that tour guideswere often the face and voice of Fiji to visitors. “Tour guides are ambassadors of our culture, our land and our people,” Ms Daunabuna said.

“This training ensured that whether you are guiding a heritage walk, a waterfall trek, or a dive tour, you do so with authenticity, safety and professionalism.”

The training brought together 40 participants from across Vanua Levu and Taveuni, representing community-based operators, resorts, transport providers, and independent guides.

Delivered in two tailored streams, one for beginner guides and another for experienced professionals, the programme provided participants with the knowledge of what service is, including what our visitors value and the importance of maintaining service excellence in tour guiding.

The programme was opened by Tewaka managing director James Sowane, a 100 per cent Fijian-owned local tour operator that has been operating since 1999 with vast experience in destination management and transport services.

Participants at a tour guide training programme in Savusavu on October 23, 2025

Photo: Supplied

Mr Sowane shared his personal journey in building the business from the ground up, encouraging participants to see tourism not just as employment but as a pathway for innovation and leadership.

He shared his experience of having a vision that was realistic and he was passionate about, maintaining the sacrifice to fulfil that vision and most importantly uphold one’s integrity as valuable pillars that brought him to where he is today.

“Tour guiding is more than showing guests around; it’s about shaping their entire perception of Fiji,” Mr Sowane said.

“Every great operator starts small, but with passion, consistency, and professionalism, you can build something lasting. Aim high and be proud of representing your community and your country.”

The learning encompassed the practical skills of storytelling in tour guiding and engaging the visitors, safety, cultural awareness and sustainable guiding practices.

This marks the second collaboration between the ministry, Rosie Travel Academy and Tourism Fiji under its shared commitment to strengthen human capital within Fiji’s tourism industry.

The training covered key aspects such as service excellence, accountability, communication and leadership, safety and crisis management, as well as storytelling. The second day of the training was officially closed by Tourism Fiji board director Josaia Rayawa.

The ministry continues to work with tourism operators and development partners to roll out similar programmes under the National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024– 2034, with a focus on inclusive participation and regional skill development.

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