Redefining Hospitality: How OBLU SELECT Lobigili is Empowering Women in the Maldives

Redefining Hospitality: How OBLU SELECT Lobigili is Empowering Women in the Maldives

By Author

Published on March 9, 2025

In the heart of the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, part of Atmosphere Core, is rewriting the narrative of luxury hospitality with an 80% women-majority workforce—an extraordinary contrast to the industry norm of just 25% female representation. From housekeeping to guest experiences, women are at the forefront, crafting personalized and intuitive service while challenging long-standing industry stereotypes.

One such inspiring woman is Sam, an Island Hostess at OBLU SELECT Lobigili, who shares her journey and the magic behind the resort’s unique approach to hospitality.

A Day in the Life of an Island Hostess

“For me, each day starts with warm welcomes and ensuring that every detail of our guests’ stay is perfect,” says Sam. “From curating bespoke experiences to planning romantic dinners by the ocean, every moment is about creating joy and connection.”
Being part of an environment where women are empowered and encouraged to lead has made this role even more special. “It’s not just a job—it’s proof that women can excel and redefine excellence in hospitality.”

Creating Unforgettable Guest Experiences

One of Sam’s most heartfelt experiences at Lobigili was arranging a surprise anniversary celebration for a couple visiting the Maldives for the first time. “The husband shared that it had always been his wife’s dream to experience the Maldives—the overwater villas, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. To make their farewell truly special, I decorated their villa’s glass floor with intricate sand art, allowing them to enjoy a breathtaking view of the ocean beneath their feet,” she recalls. “Seeing their joy and knowing I played a part in creating such a cherished memory was deeply rewarding.”

Bringing ‘The Island of Love’ to Life

Lobigili translates to “Island of Love,” and Sam and her team embody this essence in every guest interaction. “From the moment guests arrive, we ensure they feel welcomed, cherished, and cared for. Our predominantly female team brings a compassionate and intuitive approach to service, making every experience heartfelt and memorable,” she explains. “For us, ‘Island of Love’ isn’t just a name—it’s a philosophy that guides everything we do.”

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry

Growing up in Seenu Atoll, Sam’s journey into hospitality was far from conventional. “Coming from a background where the industry wasn’t seen as a space for women, joining this field felt like chasing the extraordinary,” she shares. Earning a diploma in hospitality in 2016, she started her career with part-time jobs, eventually working her way up through roles like Kids Club Attendant and Receptionist.

In December 2023, Sam achieved her dream role as an Island Hostess at Lobigili. “Being part of a team where women take the lead is both empowering and inspiring. The support and opportunities I’ve received here have shaped my career and reaffirmed my belief in the power of women to redefine hospitality.”

Celebrating Women in Hospitality

When asked what new experience she would introduce at Lobigili, Sam envisions a storytelling session celebrating local culture and traditions. “Women could take the lead, adorned in traditional attire, to share enchanting folk tales, customs, and culinary narratives. This initiative would not only showcase our creativity but also create an authentic connection between guests and the rich heritage of the Maldives.”

For women aspiring to join the hospitality industry, Sam has an inspiring message: “Have faith in yourself and embrace every opportunity with confidence. Hospitality is a field where passion, perseverance, and dedication can take you far. Don’t let traditional stereotypes hold you back—women are redefining the industry and proving that leadership, innovation, and compassion are powerful assets.”

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The Future of Atmosphere Core

In just a decade, Atmosphere Core has expanded from a single island resort to one of the Maldives’ largest operators, with a pipeline of 25+ properties across India, South Asia, and beyond. Renowned for its personalized service, culinary excellence, and luxury experiences, the brand continues to disrupt markets and redefine global hospitality.

At OBLU SELECT Lobigili, the pioneering women-led team is setting new standards in the industry, proving that true luxury is not just about lavish accommodations but about heartfelt connections and the power of inclusion. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, the resort stands as a shining example of how empowering women can transform an industry—and redefine excellence along the way.


India’s Top Luxury Wedding Photographers Turning Celebrations into Fine Art Stories

India’s Top Luxury Wedding Photographers Turning Celebrations into Fine Art Stories

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 12, 2025

In the ultra-luxury wedding space, photography has transformed dramatically. It’s no longer just about documenting the day—it’s about legacy, artistry, and emotion. Across India, some of the country’s top wedding photographers are not only preserving these grand celebrations but elevating them into globally relevant, editorial-quality narratives.

Whether it’s an opulent palace wedding or a private international elopement, ultra-high-net-worth families, celebrities, and legacy households trust these artists to capture the very soul of their special moments. Each brings a distinctive vision to the evolving language of Indian wedding photography, merging tradition, fashion, emotion, and fine art into timeless keepsakes.

Here are five standout names leading this movement:

  • Karan Sidhu: Renowned for his soulful, cinematic storytelling, Karan’s emotive style is rooted deeply in authenticity, capturing honest, unscripted moments.

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  • Joseph Radhik: A global name synonymous with iconic celebrity weddings—like Anushka-Virat and Priyanka-Nick—Joseph weaves poetic visual narratives that transcend cultures.

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  • Ombre by Harsheen Jammu: This luxury boutique studio is redefining fine art wedding photography with profound emotional depth and aspirations that extend far beyond India.

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  • Ramit Batra: A seasoned storyteller with more than 500 weddings shot worldwide, Ramit beautifully blends grandeur with genuine sentiment.

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  • Reels and Frames (Anand Rathi): Based in Mumbai, this studio is behind several high-profile weddings, known for its modern, cinematic flair and a collaborative approach that resonates with clients.

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Together, these photographers illustrate how Indian wedding photography today is an immersive art form—one that turns moments into masterpieces, memories into legacies, and emotions into stories cherished for generations.


Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Appoints Priyanka Kumari as Corporate Training Manager

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Appoints Priyanka Kumari as Corporate Training Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 12, 2025

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts has announced the appointment of Priyanka Kumari as the group’s new Corporate Training Manager, a strategic addition aimed at enhancing team capabilities and maintaining consistent service standards across all properties.

Priyanka brings with her over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with leading global hotel brands such as Marriott, Wyndham, Carlson Rezidor, and Le Méridien Bangalore. Her expertise lies in designing and executing training programs that drive performance, uplift service delivery, and cultivate a culture of continuous learning.

In her new role, Priyanka will lead training and development initiatives across all Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, ensuring staff are equipped to deliver superior guest experiences. She will oversee the development of standardized training frameworks, implement best practices across operations, and support team engagement and career progression.

Known for her approachable leadership and tailored training strategies, Priyanka has consistently empowered frontline staff and management teams alike. Her programs have contributed to tangible improvements in both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Commenting on the appointment, Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, said,

“We are pleased to welcome Priyanka Kumari to our leadership team as we continue to focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences across all our properties. Her extensive experience with leading hospitality brands and proven expertise in training and team development make her the ideal candidate to elevate our service standards.”

Outside of work, Priyanka enjoys exploring new destinations and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds—an interest that further enriches her understanding of guest service and hospitality excellence.

With this appointment, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts reaffirms its commitment to professional development, consistency in service, and excellence in hospitality.


The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie Appoints Eshant Rajput as Senior HR Executive

The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie Appoints Eshant Rajput as Senior HR Executive

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2025

The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie, a leading sustainable hospitality destination in the hills, has appointed Eshant Rajput as its new Senior HR Executive. With more than six years of experience in HR operations, payroll, compliance, and administration, Eshant steps into the role with a strong operational foundation and people-centric approach.

Eshant has previously handled HR responsibilities for over 150 employees across sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and waste management, giving him a diverse and agile perspective. He is well-versed in HRMS tools, ISO audits, labor relations, and employee engagement, making him a valuable addition to the resort’s evolving people strategy.

Mr. Arindam Bahel, General Manager, The Fern Brentwood Resort Mussoorie, expressed his optimism about the new appointment, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Eshant to the team. His extensive operational know-how and people-first mindset align well with our mission of building a motivated and service-oriented workforce.”

In his new role, Eshant will be responsible for recruitment, statutory compliance, employee engagement, and other core HR functions, with the goal of ensuring smooth operations and a positive work environment. He will also play a key role in strengthening staff retention efforts and aligning HR practices with the resort’s broader service goals.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Eshant Rajput said, “I’m excited to be part of a brand like The Fern Brentwood, which is as committed to its people as it is to sustainability. My focus will be on driving operational efficiency and enhancing employee engagement to support the resort’s vision of exceptional hospitality.”

With Eshant’s appointment, The Fern Brentwood Resort reinforces its commitment to both employee well-being and guest satisfaction, setting the tone for a culture rooted in excellence, care, and collaboration.

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