What’s the most important thing you learned in school?
My time at Fleming College was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned how to work well in a team and communicate with others from different backgrounds. I also understood the true meaning of professionalism in the hospitality industry. These skills have shaped me and will guide me in my future career.
Why did you choose to study travel, tourism or hospitality?
Since I was a child, I’ve always loved visiting new places where I could relax, have fun and enjoy the moment. Over time, I realized that every part of the travel journey—from planning to staying—matters in creating a great experience. I enjoy working with people and making them feel welcome. That’s what inspired me to choose a career in hospitality.
What is your greatest professional strength?
My greatest professional strength is being reliable, hardworking and detail oriented. I always give my best to make sure tasks are done properly and on time. I also stay calm under pressure and enjoy working as part of a team and helping others when needed. These qualities help me create a positive experience for both guests and coworkers in the hospitality industry.
In your opinion, what’s the most exciting trend in travel, tourism or hospitality right now and why?
One of the most exciting trends is sustainable and eco-friendly travel. More people now care about the environment and want to travel in a way that supports local communities and protects nature. Hotels and travel companies are offering green options, like eco-tours and low-waste stays. I think it’s a great step toward responsible and meaningful travel.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
In the year ahead, my main goal is to successfully graduate from the Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations program at Fleming College. I have already secured a full-time position as a houseman at Fairmont Whistler, one of the top hotels in Canada. In this role, I aim to develop my leadership and operational skills by taking on more responsibilities, supporting different departments when needed and learning more about daily hotel operations. I plan to attend at least one professional development session offered by the hotel and connect with at least 20 new professionals on LinkedIn to expand my network. These actions will help me move closer to my long-term goal of becoming a general manager within the next 7–10 years.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I aim to be working as a general manager at a luxury hotel, ideally within a renowned brand like Fairmont. To reach this goal, I plan to gain progressive experience by working in key operational departments such as housekeeping, front office and food and beverage over the next 5–7 years. I will work toward leadership roles, aiming to become an assistant manager within 3 years and move into department head roles within 5–6 years. I also plan to complete at least one hospitality leadership certification and continue learning through on-the-job training and mentorship. This goal aligns with my passion for hospitality and leadership, and I am committed to reaching it by steadily building the required experience, skills and network by 2035.
What are some of the top places you want to see in Canada and why?
I would love to visit Banff and Jasper for their beautiful mountains and lakes. Niagara Falls is also on my list because it’s one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. I’m also interested in exploring Quebec City to experience French Canadian culture and history. Each place offers something unique and helps me learn more about Canada’s beauty and diversity.
What do you do to engage in travel, tourism or hospitality mindfully/sustainably?
When I travel, I prioritize sustainability by supporting local businesses and staying with local families instead of large hotels. I try to reduce waste by using reusable water bottles and being mindful of energy and water use. I also respect the local culture by learning about traditions and customs before visiting. These actions help me travel responsibly and contribute positively to the communities I experience.
Name your favourite travel or hospitality experience so far:
Back in high school I studied hotel management, and our college organized a trip to a village called Syangja in Nepal. It took around eight hours to reach, and when we got there in the evening, over 100 local people welcomed us with traditional music and dances. The women wore their cultural dresses and greeted us with flowers and juice. It was a beautiful moment that showed me how powerful and heartwarming hospitality can be.
Name your greatest achievement so far:
While securing a full-time position as a houseman at Fairmont Whistler is a significant accomplishment in my career, I believe my greatest achievement will come when I become a general manager of a hotel. This is my long-term goal, and I see it as the culmination of my hard work, learning and growth within the hospitality industry. Achieving this goal will reflect my dedication to providing excellent service, leading teams and making a positive impact in the hotel industry.
What’s the best OR worst piece of travel advice you’ve received?
The best advice I got was to stay open-minded and really take time to understand the local culture when travelling. It makes the experience so much richer and more memorable. Since then, I’ve started talking more with locals, trying new food and learning small things about each place I visit. It’s made every trip feel more real and personal.
What destination is next on your dream travel list and why?
The next destination on my dream travel list within Canada is Alberta. I’ve always wanted to visit because of its stunning mountain views, especially around Banff and Jasper. As someone working in hospitality, I’d love to explore how hotels operate in such a scenic and popular travel destination. Internationally, I would love to visit Nepal—my home country. Even though I’m from Nepal, I haven’t had the chance to explore it fully. It’s a small but incredibly beautiful country in South Asia, known for its rich culture, warm hospitality and breathtaking places like the Himalayas. Visiting both Alberta and Nepal would be meaningful for me in different ways, both personally and professionally.
