In the heart of the Maldives, where tourism forms not only the backbone of the national economy but also a defining element of identity, young professionals are increasingly discovering meaningful roles and promising futures. One such individual is Hussain Jinaah Latheef, a determined and thoughtful young man from Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Currently working as an airport representative at NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, Jinaah embodies a new generation of Maldivians who are learning that hospitality offers not just employment, but purpose and growth.
At Kaadedhdhoo Airport, Jinaah serves as the resort's first point of contact for arriving guests. In this role, he bridges the excitement of travel with the comforts of a welcoming environment. From managing transfer logistics and luggage to responding to inquiries about the island, resort, or Maldivian culture, his tasks are multifaceted and deeply personal. “You’re welcoming someone to your home,” he reflects. “Even a small interaction can leave a lasting impression.” This first impression often sets the tone for the entirety of a guest’s stay, making Jinaah’s role both subtle and profoundly important.
Jinaah’s entry into the hospitality industry dates back to 2018 when he first joined the NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort as a spa attendant. For four and a half years, he immersed himself in the serene world of wellness, where the art of guest care is often silent but deeply felt. Working in the spa taught him the value of details—the way lighting, music, temperature, and even scent can shape a guest’s perception of peace and relaxation. “It’s about making people feel cared for in ways they don’t even have to ask for,” he explains. His time there not only refined his technical abilities but deepened his understanding of what it means to serve with empathy.
The shift to his current airport role in 2023 was driven by a desire to engage with guests more directly and dynamically. Transitioning to a guest-facing position at the very start of the vacation experience, Jinaah found a new rhythm to hospitality—one marked by quick thinking, first impressions, and problem-solving in real time. “Travel can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors,” he says. “If I can help guests feel at ease from the moment they land, then I’ve done something meaningful.”
Much of what Jinaah has learned has come from lived experience and interaction with colleagues. He credits his growth not to formal training alone, but to the everyday learning that comes from observing seasoned coworkers, listening to feedback, and being open to challenges. “You see how people handle different situations, how they stay calm under pressure, and how they find the right words when something doesn’t go as planned,” he says. “It teaches you things you can’t learn in a classroom.”
He also highlights the culture of camaraderie within the resort environment. Late-night conversations with team members, shared solutions to logistical problems, and informal mentorship from senior staff have all shaped his development. “Everyone brings something different to the table. And when you work together long enough, you start to grow together,” he says.
Importantly, Jinaah doesn’t view himself as exceptional or unique—rather, he sees himself as part of a broader movement of Maldivian youth realizing the value of tourism as a career. “I didn’t fully understand what this path could offer until I became a part of it,” he shares. “Now, I see how much it helps you grow as a person—how it builds your confidence and helps you connect with people from all over the world.”
For many young people in the Maldives, tourism might seem distant or overly demanding, especially to those unfamiliar with the day-to-day life of resort work. But Jinaah believes that exposure is key. “When you actually try it, when you live it, you see what it really is,” he says. “There’s a lot of pride in doing this work well. You represent your island, your community, your country.”
He encourages youth who may be unsure about their future to consider the many pathways within the industry. Whether it's wellness, front office, culinary arts, or guest services, the tourism sector in the Maldives offers a diverse landscape for skill-building and long-term development. “You get to meet people, hear their stories, and share your own,” he adds. “Every day is a chance to learn something new.”
At NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, Jinaah continues to take on his responsibilities with a sense of purpose. Whether it’s smoothing a guest’s arrival or coordinating with the resort team to handle unexpected challenges, he approaches each task with calm resolve and genuine care. His story is not about reaching the top, but about showing how far someone can go by being consistent, curious, and open to growth.
For readers unfamiliar with the behind-the-scenes life of tourism workers, Jinaah’s experience opens a window into a world where professionalism and hospitality meet. It reminds us that tourism isn’t simply about beautiful beaches and luxury stays—it’s about people. And for young Maldivians willing to engage with this ever-evolving industry, it can offer a life filled with stories, progress, and meaningful impact.
Hussain Jinaah Latheef’s path shows that the tourism sector, with all its demands and rewards, holds immense promise—not just for visitors, but for those who choose to serve them.