Student Stories

“Be patient and open-minded. Good things take time.” - Gabriella

Could you share with us briefly about your current role as Assistant Digital Marketing Manager at Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi?

My role here at Fairmont Maldives is mainly focusing on two things: making sure the resort’s presence is apparent across multiple digital platforms as well as creating offers that will attract guests to choose our resort as their destination in the Maldives.

What motivates you every day when you go to work?

What motivates me is knowing that I’m working for a well-established brand in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. There is always something new that I, as a digital marketer, could develop here on the resort. The fact that Fairmont has been a well-known brand since 1886 (previously known as Canadian Pacific Hotels) and the beautiful view that’s just a few steps away motivate me to come to work every day and create more revenue generating ideas.

Are there any challenges faced during your course of work and how do you overcome them?

The most challenging thing I face is the island life. Since I live and work on the island, there aren’t many things I can do here, which is very different from my previous experience working in a city hotel where the city never sleeps. I overcome this specific challenge by surrounding myself with colleagues who has become like family.

Are there any things to note about the working culture in Maldives? Do you have any words of advice for students who would like to pursue their career in Maldives after graduation?

Although Maldives is a very beautiful place, it has many challenges that one will face. You will spend 24 hours on an island with minimum entertainment activities that you could do. Each resort will be different as well, some are easy to reach via speedboat from the capital city/island – Male, and some take hours to get to. For students who would like to work in the Maldives, prepare yourself as you need to be away from family and friends for quite some time, and the working culture will be very different since you need to work with different cultures and nationalities.

In what ways have your education with PSB Academy added value to your personal development and professional opportunities?

The marketing world, no matter what industry you are in, is very time sensitive. Launching or responding to something just a little bit late could create a domino effect that will affect your monthly or yearly strategy. Back when I was a student, my professors had taught me to create and finish a project on a very tight deadline, while still being able to maximise its impact. I had days when I thought something was impossible but they proved me wrong.

What advice would you give to someone who is starting out in their career?

Be patient and open-minded. As the current world is constantly changing, try to keep up with ongoing trends, whether you would like to pursue a professional career or work as a freelancer. Good things take time, and make sure that if you choose to work professionally, you are choosing a company that has the same vision and mission with you, so do your research. By doing so, you will ensure that you will enjoy your time doing your tasks, and not dreading going to work.

Share a personal quote or mantra you live by.

“Do not expect anything from anyone”. Whether it’s for your personal or working life, I think it’s important that you do not expect anyone to do or give you anything. Do things that you love and are required to do, and do not expect anything in return. Unrealistic expectations will lead to disappointments, and that would slow you down to reach your goals and dreams.