(NATADOLA, FIJI) Friday, 11th September 2015 – InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa commemorates and acknowledges staff member Vatemo Vaquonqona for his brave actions and quick thinking while saving the lives of two resort guests and two colleagues . Vatemo Vaquonqona was acknowledged and awarded top prize of Brandhearted Service for helping to deliver Great Hotel Guests Love recently in front of all resort staff during IHG annual Service Week held at InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa.
As part of the celebrations at IHG ‘Celebrate Service Week’, stories were submitted from all IHG resorts and hotels globally of exceptional stories and actions of employees dedications, hard work and bravery. InterContinental Fiji were proud to announce that out of 1,811 stories submitted globally, Vatemo’s story of bravery and dedication took top prize for his bravery and heart-warming service story.
Vatemo Vaquonqona’s heart-warming story: During a casual outing in the near by lagoon at Natadola Bay, a woman fell out of the boat they were on and into the water, her husband immediately jumped in to try to save her however, the currents were too strong. Two villagers from the neighbouring Sanasana village tried to assist them but they too were unable to help due to the strong currents. Luckily, Vatemo was nearby at the Adult Only Infinity pool when he noticed the struggle taking place out at sea. Without a second thought; Vatemo raced down to the beach, grabbed a surf board from the Reef Safari station and swam out to sea towards the four drowning individuals. They placed the woman on the surf board while the rest held on to keep them afloat to paddle back to shore. A Reef Safari boat eventually managed to reach them and assist bringing them back to safety. With Vatemo’s quick thinking, bravey and proactive approach, he helped to save the lives of four people.
Vatemo is truly an exemplary employee, in 2014 he took home the award of Employee of the Year; Front of House as well as Employee of the month in March of 2014.
“We are proud to have amongst us a very brave and dedicated young employee that considers the safety of our guests first before himself and others. Vatemo is truly an exceptional individual.” Area General Manager, Mr Erik Stude concluded.
PRESS RELEASE