FHTA 23 June 2022 – The Fiji Hotel & Tourism Association (FHTA) held its 57th Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, the first meeting post-reopening of borders.
Held at Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa, the AGM was well-attended by members and associate members who heard a recap of the Association’s past twelve months of key activities, whilst also voting in new board members and discussing industry trends and issues.
Brian Kirsch of Likuri Island Resort was voted back in as the FHTA President. He will be assisted by Vice Presidents, Tammie Tam of Warwick Hotels & Resorts and Narend Kumar of the Tanoa Hotel Group.
“It has been enormously rewarding to see our members come through their most challenging period to-date, with the bulk of operators moving steadily back into full capacity since the December 1 reopening with the determination and tenacity that reflects tourism’s continued resilience. FHTA never ceases its consistent advocacy to address member issues in all possible forums and our collective focus is still firmly on ensuring the industry can continue to develop and grow in sustainably managed environments” the re-elected FHTA President, Brian Kirsch said.
Other new board appointments were: Neeraj Chadha (Marriott International Inc), Vincent Macquet (Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa), Azam Khan (Hexagon Group of Hotels), James McCann (Yasawa Island Resort & Spa), Kaydee George (Wyndham Resort Denarau Island) and Simon Doughty (Volivoli Beach Resort).
The full 16-member board will take the helm as the tourism industry heads into what is hoped will be a period of sustained recovery and eventual growth following the most difficult period that the industry has ever faced.
The Association firmly believes unique opportunities exist to invigorate the economy with the introduction of strategies and policies that provide stimulus and accelerate growth through incentivising job retention, sustaining tourism SME’s and protecting vulnerable groups, while also promoting more investment in the industry.
FHTA CEO, Fantasha Lockington confirmed that the Association liaises and consults with relevant Government ministries, agencies, statutory bodies and development partners to ensure support, awareness and access to required assistance is facilitated, and that this further enables the industry to continue its substantial contribution to the Fijian economy.
