Sun Siyam Iru Fushi marks Women’s Day with ‘She Is Hospitality’ exhibition
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 by opening a portrait style exhibition named She Is Hospitality, that highlighted women who positively impact the success of the Resort. After its reveal on 8 March, the exhibition aligned with the global campaign of this year's theme Give to Gain, and shared with view of the diversity of the women's personalities, talents and values throughout the resort.
Each woman's story is showcased and emphasises that the resort's culture is about empowerment and giving people the opportunity to work together in an environment where women can achieve their professional goals while maintaining their personal identity and sense of purpose.
An example of this is Danijela Podlipec who manages The Diving Centre at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, where she leads guests through some incredible moments while exploring the magical underwater world of the Maldives. As a calming presence, Danijela creates a welcoming and secure atmosphere for new divers, which allows them to experience some of the deepest blues for the first time.
At the resort's spa, Anna Vargas has 20 years of experience working in the Maldives. She is a coach and supports younger workers, who she describes as employees practicing a humanitarian approach to wellness and will need to focus on compassion, detail and individualised service to all clients.
Ofimaria Deliva demonstrates perseverance working behind the scenes in the resort's most technical Operations department; she has transitioned from finance to work in engineering operations as her career progression shows that there are expanding opportunities for women throughout all sectors of hospitality.
Like Rabina Shrestha, who is changing how people view resort security, particularly as it has historically been predominantly male. She demonstrates strength and grace through her attentive and empathic approach to guest protection.
Mia Sumiati greets every guest each morning when they eat breakfast, establishing the tone for guests' daily experience. Guests experience Fathimath Afaa providing warm hospitality when they check into the resort, establishing an excellent first impression of business.
For villa patrons, Ameni Dahmene offers nearly ten years of bespoke service, drawing from her extensive (multicultural) background, which combines Tunisia and her love for travel, to build instantaneous rapport with guests from around the globe.
At the resort, creativity and joy will also be evident in the family programming offered to guests. Nancy Castano infuses dance into her programming to inspire young guests while also providing them with a creative outlet through which they can express themselves and have fun.
Part of the culture of teamwork at the resort is Lyrio May, who believes in nurturing a workplace that is anchored in empathy and connection with his colleagues, oftentimes utilizing music and traditional Maldivian dance to help bring people together.
Radhika Sabharwal, who works in the reservations department, has been helping guests to book their dream vacation to the Maldives but is still on her own personal quest of discovery.
Through its luxury collection, Sun Siyam Resorts promotes a culture where talent is recognised, and uniqueness is celebrated. One initiative is the “She Is Hospitality” exhibition, which highlights how women not only contribute to the daily operation of the resort, but also influence the values, environment, and essence of exemplary island hospitality.
