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.


Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort Appoints Gopal Singh as Financial Controller

Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort Appoints Gopal Singh as Financial Controller

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 1, 2026

Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort has announced the appointment of Gopal Singh as its Financial Controller, effective May 20, 2026. With more than 15 years of experience in hospitality finance and accounting, he joins the resort's leadership team to further strengthen its financial operations.

Gopal joins Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort from Storii by ITC Dharamshala, where he served as Unit Financial Controller. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in financial operations, compliance, internal controls, budgeting and commercial strategy.

He has previously held finance leadership positions at several Hyatt hotels, including Hyatt Hyderabad, Hyatt Centric New Delhi and Hyatt Regency Lucknow, where he gained extensive experience in financial planning, operational controls, process optimisation and hotel performance management. His professional journey also includes roles at Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi and JW Marriott New Delhi.

Academically, Gopal holds an MBA in Finance from Sikkim Manipal University, a Bachelor of Commerce from Himachal Pradesh University, and an Industrial Accountant Diploma from the Institute of Computer Accounts.

In his new role, he will oversee the resort's financial operations, compliance framework and commercial performance initiatives, supporting Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort's continued growth and operational excellence.

Speaking about his appointment, Gopal Singh said, "I am excited to join Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort and look forward to contributing to the hotel’s continued success. My focus will be on strengthening financial performance through continuous improvement, collaboration and data-driven decision-making while supporting exceptional guest experiences."

Outside of work, Gopal enjoys spending time with his family and believes in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Guided by the motto, 'Continuous improvement over delayed perfection', he is passionate about turning operational insights into practical business strategies that improve profitability and efficiency.

His appointment reflects Hyatt Regency Dharamshala Resort's continued focus on strengthening its leadership team to support the property's long-term growth plans.


Park Hyatt Chennai Appoints Vishwesh Ramesh as Director of Food & Beverage

Park Hyatt Chennai Appoints Vishwesh Ramesh as Director of Food & Beverage

By Hariharan U

Published on June 29, 2026

Park Hyatt Chennai has announced the appointment of Vishwesh Ramesh as its new Director of Food & Beverage, reinforcing the hotel’s focus on elevating guest experiences and strengthening its culinary operations.

In his new role, Vishwesh will oversee the hotel’s entire food and beverage division, with responsibilities spanning concept development, operational excellence, guest experience enhancement, and revenue optimisation across dining outlets.

He joins Park Hyatt Chennai with over 11 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having worked with globally recognised brands including JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, and Taj Mahal Palace. Known for his strong commercial acumen and operational discipline, he has built a reputation for creating impactful dining concepts and driving performance-led F&B strategies.

Prior to this appointment, Vishwesh played a key leadership role at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, where he led the pre-opening and positioning of the property’s F&B operations. Under his leadership, the resort developed a diverse portfolio of seven dining outlets while achieving strong financial results and consistently high guest satisfaction scores.

Speaking on the appointment, the leadership team at Park Hyatt Chennai said Vishwesh’s experience and innovative approach will be instrumental in strengthening the hotel’s food and beverage strategy and further enhancing guest engagement across all dining experiences.

Earlier in his career, he held key positions at Mulberry Shades, A Tribute Portfolio Resort and The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, where he contributed to the introduction of premium dining concepts and new revenue streams aligned with evolving market expectations.

Commenting on his new role, Vishwesh Ramesh said he is honoured to join Park Hyatt Chennai and looks forward to contributing to the hotel’s continued success by creating memorable dining experiences and building high-performing teams.

His appointment comes as Park Hyatt Chennai continues to strengthen its position in the city’s luxury hospitality landscape, responding to growing demand from both business and leisure travellers.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2026, the company’s portfolio includes more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 83 countries on six continents.

About Park Hyatt Chennai

Located in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt Chennai offers a refined blend of contemporary luxury and understated elegance overlooking Guindy National Park. The hotel features 200 guestrooms and suites, award-winning dining venues including Park Brasserie, The Flying Elephant Bar, and Mr. Ong – The Flavours of Singapore, along with a spa, rooftop infinity pool, and state-of-the-art event spaces.


Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Properties Appoint Vikrant Dhingra as Cluster Director of Revenue

Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Properties Appoint Vikrant Dhingra as Cluster Director of Revenue

By Hariharan U

Published on June 29, 2026

Hilton has announced the appointment of Vikrant Dhingra as Cluster Director of Revenue for its Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park and Hilton & Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Tech Village properties.

In his new role, Vikrant will be responsible for overseeing revenue strategy, pricing, distribution, and demand generation across both hotel assets. His mandate includes driving commercial performance, strengthening market positioning, and ensuring sustained revenue growth across segments.

Vikrant brings over a decade of experience in hospitality revenue management, having worked with leading international and domestic hotel brands across multiple markets. Prior to joining Hilton, he held senior revenue leadership roles at Grand Hyatt Amman in Jordan and ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo, where he contributed to significant improvements in RevPAR, market share, and overall revenue performance.

His career also includes key revenue management roles with Hyatt Hotels Corporation, ITC Hotels, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Lemon Tree Hotels, where he built expertise in yield optimisation, pricing strategy, and total revenue management across diverse hospitality environments.

Speaking on his appointment, Vikrant Dhingra said he is excited to join Hilton and looks forward to contributing to the continued success of the Bengaluru properties. He emphasised his focus on building innovative revenue strategies and driving long-term business value in collaboration with the hotel teams.

Sujeet Kumar, General Manager of Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, welcomed the appointment, noting that Vikrant’s strong commercial expertise and proven track record will play a key role in strengthening market position and supporting continued growth across both hotels.

The appointment reinforces Hilton’s focus on strengthening its commercial leadership structure in India as it continues to expand and optimise performance across key business destinations.

About Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park

Hilton is a global hospitality company with a portfolio of 27 brands and more than 9,200 properties across 144 countries and territories. The Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park properties were launched in 2022 and feature one of South India’s largest hotel convention spaces, spanning approximately 60,000 square feet. Strategically located near the airport and Manyata Business Park, the hotels are positioned to serve both business and MICE demand in Bengaluru

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