05/02/2026
For Immediate Release
Suva, Fiji
Tanoa Hotels is being recognised for its leadership in inclusive employment through its partnership with the Job Discovery Program (JDP), supporting young adults with disabilities into meaningful work within Fiji’s hospitality sector.
In September 2025, the hotel welcomed two JDP interns, Siteri Daulali and Laiwani Baleibatiki, into its Housekeeping Department for a six-month placement. From the outset, they were treated as full members of the team working alongside colleagues and contributing to daily hotel operations.
The Job Discovery Program supports young adults with disabilities to identify their strengths, build workplace skills, and transition into employment through real-world experience. Central to this approach are employers willing to move beyond token inclusion.
Tanoa Plaza Hotel has done exactly that.
“This placement shows what inclusive leadership looks like in practice,” the Job Discovery Program said. “Our interns were supported, respected, and encouraged to grow in a safe and professional environment.”
Throughout the attachment, Siteri and Laiwani have taken part in daily housekeeping duties under the guidance of dedicated mentors, following a structured learning framework. The program has observed clear growth in their technical skills, workplace communication, independence, and confidence.
Values in Action
Area General Manager Mr Narend Kumar said inclusion and compassion remain core values of Tanoa Hotels Fiji.
“We believe in inclusivity and diversity. One of the legacies of Mr YP Reddy was giving back to the communities in which we operate,” Mr Kumar said.
“Everyone has some form of disability—some are simply more visible than others. Helping build careers and lives is practicing what we value.”
Images from the placement capture the interns confidently carrying out their roles, training alongside colleagues, and standing proudly in uniform fully integrated members of the team.
“When employers choose inclusion, they offer more than training,” the Job Discovery Program Lead said.
“They offer dignity, confidence, and a future.”
As the six-month attachment continues, the Job Discovery Program hopes this partnership will inspire more organisations across Fiji to adopt inclusive employment practices and create workplaces where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
