HOTELIER AWARDS 2012: Green Hotelier shortlist
These five finalists will compete for the Green Hotelier of the Year 2012 title in the Hotelier Middle East Awards to be held on October 31 at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC.
Below you will find extracts and testimonials from the shortlisted nominations for each of the five candidates...
Gawdat Mohamed Ali Hassan, Jebel Ali Golf Resort
About Gawdat
Gawdat Ali, originally from Egypt, joined the team at Jebel Ali Golf Resort more than eight years ago. He started as a waiter in the resort’s Italian restaurant, La Traviata, where he dazzled guests with his “Egytalian” vocabulary. From a young age, Gawdat has had a passion for both nature and food, fuelling his ambitions to move into the kitchens and become a chef. Cooking allows Gawdat to combine his love for food with creative passion and flair and is a real asset to the resort’s Executive Chef and Culinary Director. In 2006, Gawdat voluntarily offered to support the creation and development of the resort bio-garden, an initiative founded by the late general manger, Mr. Mark Bettsworth. The garden started out as a small plot of greenery, just 10 square metres and has now grown to over 300 square meters in size. The resort team can now grow their own herbs and other produce in an environmentally friendly way, enhancing the natural aspect of the dishes.
Above and beyond the call of duty…
Gawdat has implemented a dripping system to irrigate the area in order to minimise the usage of water, which is such a precious good in this part of the world. He also saves water through the use of a disinfectant for the vegetables within the preparation of dishes. This can be used without the need for running water thus large amounts of water is saved. This is one particular area where water waste is reduced and has aided the preservation of the environment. He has also proudly conducted planting days and informative tours of the garden for fellow associates, resort guests and day visitors. Gawdat keeps a memory log book where visitors leave their compliments and comments to express their surprise and excitement for finding such a great functioning green reality in Dubai. Chef Gawdat has had the patience to experiment with dozens of organic seeds in order to understand which fruits and vegetables would be able to survive the harsh weather and temperatures in the Arabian Desert. He has experienced several disappointments as well as many great successes. In ordering to efficiently plan for the seasons, Gawdat has developed a dedicated harvesting system which ensures fresh fruit, herbs and vegetables year round. Gawdat utilises his skills as a chef to take ownership and responsibility of the garden, a mission he has chosen to undertake along with all his other everyday tasks. He does not ask for any remuneration or special treatment, he simply shows up every single morning at 6am, ready to make the necessary alterations in order to ensure the bio garden is at its very best. It is down to Gawdat that the bio garden has become one of the most evident commitments that our resort has embraced towards the environment.
Testimonials for Gawdat
“Gawdat has a naturally contagious smile and he is no stranger to guests’ compliments. Our visitors continue to be impressed by his passion and enthusiasm for the bio garden as well as his good nature and drive to succeed. It is without doubt that he is one of the friendliest and most popular members of the team and his passion is clearly what sets him aside from others”. Michelle Wilson, corporate learning, development & business excellence manager, Jebel Ali International Hotels.
“Gawdat is a shining member of the F&B team and a person who will put the needs of others before himself. He is not an over muscular person, nor has he attended special courses, he simply takes on this task because he is passionate and believes in looking after the environment. He is not after fame or recognition; he just wants to get the best from what is on offer to us”. Massimo Venturelli, culinary director, Jebel Ali Golf Resort:
Shelendra Singh, Fairmont Dubai
About Shelandra
Shelendra Singh has always taken an active approach to sustainability, and his interest was piqued further at University while studying for his Bachelor’s degree in Bio-Science from Dr. H.S.G. (Sagar) University, where he helped to start up an ‘Eco Campus’ scheme to encourage environmental awareness amongst his peers. Shelendra continued leading the program when he went on to study for a Master’s Degree in Microbiology from Barkatullah University, India. After graduating, Shelendra started his career in Quality Assurance as a Microbiologist in 2003, working for companies such as Makson Healthcare Private Limited in Raisen and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Limited in Bhopal. In 2006 an opportunity arose to join the hospitality industry in Dubai. Leaving his native India and moving to the United Arab Emirates, he took on the role as Hygiene Officer at the Marco Polo Hotel. In 2007, Shelendra joined the Fairmont Dubai in the capacity of Hygiene Officer, managing food safety for the hotel. He was soon promoted to Manager, Environment Health & Safety in 2009 where he also became responsible for HACCP (food safety) compliance, and the division wide Health & Safety program for the hotel. In July 2010, he was appointed to his current position as Operations Manager, Environment, Health and Sanitation, taking on the additional responsibilities of Chief Steward including procurement, recruitment, training, and operations management.
Above and beyond the call of duty…
Despite the intense challenges faced when trying to be green in a city located in the middle of a desert, Shelendra actively fights to overcome these obstacles through innovative initiatives. Fully committed to improving the sustainability of the Fairmont Dubai and eliminating unnecessary waste, he makes continuous operational improvements to conserve resources as it relates to waste management, energy and water conservation, as well as community involvement. Bursting with enthusiasm about environmental sustainability, Shelendra is dedicated to his role as Operations Manager, Environment, Health and Sanitation, well beyond what is required by his title. He goes above his call of duty most notably in his commitment to education, community involvement, and in his dedication colleagues. Shelendra is passionate about educating his peers about green issues. Many colleagues in Fairmont Dubai remember Shelendra from their very first day of orientation, where he encourages staff to take a proactive approach to caring for the environment daily in the workplace. In December 2011, Shelendra was invited to share his expertise in the hospitality industry as a panel spokesperson in the World Green Tourism Conference in Abu Dhabi where he spoke about Fairmont Dubai’s sustainability initiatives. As a green ambassador, he shares new environmental practices with his colleagues via a monthly internal newsletter. He encourages members of the Green Team to pass this information on, and ensure that all new hires in their department are trained in environmental practices. He also encourages all departments to have their own Green Corner as a place to share tips on preserving the environment. In the monthly team meetings, he has managed to create an environment for new ideas to be shared, encouraging the development of new green ambassadors.
Testimonials for Shelandra
"Shelendra Singh played an important role in engaging Fairmont’s employees and guests with the EWS-WWF Marine Turtle Conservation Project. The three-year project uses satellite tracking technology to chart the migratory patterns of critically endangered Hawksbill Turtles in the Gulf region and has already uncovered some interesting data. Shelendra also organized a sustainable seafood competition for chefs, thus mirroring EWS-WWF efforts to encourage restaurants and hotels to provide residents and guests with sustainable seafood choices to encourage consumer action to curb the demand on overfished species, through our “Choose Wisely” campaign.” Nicolas Delaunay, director, business development & marketing, Emirates Wildlife Society in association with the World Wild Fund for Nature (EWS-WWF)
“I would like to take this opportunity to recommend Shelendra for this award not only because of his professional work ethics but also on account of his honest passion to the health & environmental cause. In fact being environment friendly is something I have learnt a lot from him in terms of saving of paper, disposing of plastic, unnecessary use of electricity, and reducing the use of air-conditioning, to name a few. In fact I have taken all these wonderful tips from him and have used this religiously in my daily life. Most importantly he ensures that the equipment that he purchases from us belongs to a company that practices environmental friendly practices. I would say he is a perfect ambassador and a very passionate one, in helping to make Dubai an environmentally friendly place to live in.” Sydney Pinto, product manager (V.A.E), Sara Hotel Supplies, Dubai
“Shelendra demonstrates through his actions at the property, staff residences and beyond in the local community, his countless steps to raise expectations and achievements in environmental performance. At the hotel level, he ensures recycling rates continue to increase, and water conservation from the linen reuse program is realized through the tracking system he implemented within the housekeeping and rooms departments. Shelendra spends time with the property chefs to ensure sustainable seafood is featured on the hotel’s menu, and continues to source sustainable products to be used in the outlets. He continues to interact and work with suppliers to discuss and reduce excess packaging as a means to minimize and reduce waste. He is very passionate about supporting the local community and organizations that operate within. Shelendra focuses on various philanthropic activities; from partnering with the World Wildlife Fund to support marine turtle research to arranging for the hotel green team to host various fundraising activities to donate proceeded to charities. He has guided the Environmental Committee’s goals and actions and continues to inspire his colleagues, push the boundaries of greening hotel operations, and share the stewardship message in the local community. Shelendra is an inspiration to all and should be recognised for his sustainability passions and tireless efforts to continuously go above and beyond.” Sarah Dayboll, manager, environmental affairs, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Fairmont Corporate Office
Kabeer TV, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi
About Kabeer
Kabeer TV, Environment Health and safety (EHS) Manager joined with IHG group in 2007 as Food safety and Hygiene officer. His passion towards a healthy, greener and sustainable environment led him to achieve a role as EHS Manager. Being in this position, Kabeer has succeeded in driving sustainable business practices in the Hotel and ensuring their success over the long term, which involves best practices in different departments to reduce the environmental impacts from their work activities. The success of the implementation of Green initiative is by maintaining awareness about the “Green Initiative” importance, staying motivated and enjoying the journey to creating a sustainable business.
Above and beyond the call of duty…
Kabeer started his new role- EHSMS Manager with the understanding that by applying the passion for sustainability it can bring about changes for both the business you are in and the environment. He formed Green Hippo team (a group of colleagues from within the hotel who have joined together to take on responsible business projects) with members from different departments to drive the green engage initiatives. He joined with Heroes of the UAE team, Kabeer initiated the pledge to save water and energy program in the Hotel. 137 colleagues pledged in this programme. Kabeer has succeeded in achieving an appreciation letter from Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority in maintaining the food safety system in the Hotel. He actively participated in the charity campaign organised by the hotel to donate a 32 seater mini bus to Al Noor School (AED 150,000). Sustainability in the business can only be achieved by creating a positive culture in the business; Kabeer has supported the hotel with passion and dedication to develop a sustainable culture by providing awareness programs, putting targets and objectives and driving other departments to implement best practices – in reducing the impact on the environment and to save on utility bills.
Testimonials for Kabeer
"Kabeer has proven to be a pillar to the success of my food and beverage operation. His vast knowledge of EHS paired with an analytical mind and a determined and focused approach help the culinary with F&B team to achieve highest compliance scores with the latest HACCP and Food Hygiene Standards. His determination to support enables even sister properties to benefit from Kabeer's abilities." Benjamin Tenius, food and beverage manager.
"Due to Kabeer's vast knowledge he has become one of the advisors at Corporate Level within the group, yet he is very humble when it comes to recognising his efforts. Kabeer is a strength to the team here at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi." Khaled Zaki, resident manager.
"When it comes to Kabeer the first thing that strikes you is what a good role model he is as a team player and as a leader. He sets the standards high in terms of expectations and delivers every single time on those expectations." Sabah Navel, director of human resources.
Fadi Ismail, InterContinental Muscat
About Ismail
Fadi Ismail joined Intercontinental Muscat in February 2009. He was born in Beirut and graduated from Lebanese university achieving license of Finance and Banking in 2006. He worked as a casual staff in Banquets at the InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut 2007 and later in the Security Department in 2008. Fadi finally had the opportunity to pursue his real passion, a combination safety and risk awareness, when he became Fire, Life and Safety (FLS) Coordinator at InterContinental Muscat in 2009. To develop his skills, Fadi completed different IHG trainings on Corporate Responsibility, sponsored by both, the hotel and himself, and has completed all on-line trainings through IHG Merlin related to Risk Management. In 2010 Fadi was promoted as Risk Manager. Due to his hard work and with the aim of broaden his role, in 2012 Fadi was promoted as Risk and Hygiene Manager, and as so he has been in charge of implementing HACCP safety management system in the hotel.
Above and beyond the call of duty…
Fadi was in charge of the Monthly Quality Self Assessments and through it, he established a team of 5 colleagues, the team was checking the guest rooms on daily basis, 65 rooms per month to cover all the hotel rooms in 4 months, The team helped the hotel in reviewing the Brand standards and health of the guest rooms and do the needful maintenance and cleaning requirements. Fadi led and coordinated Race Around the World 2011 and 2012 supporting our partnership in the 2012 Olympics with more than 15 activities in 2011and 2012 reaching 7700 km which mean that the hotel participated in donating 7700 U.S. dollars to build shelter in a Storm (IHG program to help people by donating 1 US for each 1 Km). In addition, Fadi led and engaged all departments in different Corporate Social Responsibility activities such as but not limited to the following: Earth Hour 2011 – 2012 Responsible Business Week , which included beach cleaning, office spring cleaning and tree planting; Charity Boxes which consisted on collecting used items (Clothes, shoes, toys, books and donating it to for people in need (Sultanate of Oman); and driving Oman First Marathon in which more than 70 members of the community run for a better and healthier Oman. Finally, Fadi goes above the call of duty by being in charge of the sports committee in the hotel. Fadi dedicates his life to promote a greener life style, he is an example of self development and with his proactive, positive and flexible attitude, he engaged us to continuously address “green” issues that impact our hotel, as well as the community of Oman.
Testimonial for Fadi
“Fadi conducted many training which helped in developing other colleagues, starting from Green Engage trainings that helped in motivating colleagues to recycle wastes and follow green best practices to safe both money and environment. In addition to Green Engage training Fadi conducted many Fire Life Safety Trainings, Health and Safety trainings, Food Safety Trainings, and Security awareness trainings. Fadi has driven the sports committee and sports events for the past 3 years. Talk about the teams, how many colleagues it engages and the satisfaction it gives him to drive this extra activities towards the improvement of the hotel staff in their off-duty hours, creating a well balance work/life environment.” Anon.
Nicholas Fernandez, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City
About Nicholas
Nicholas Fernandez joined the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City in 2006 and climbed up the career ladder quickly due to his passion, hard work and commitment. He was promoted within six months of joining the hotel to the position of engineering supervisor and again in 2007 to the post of assistant chief engineer. He became chief engineer in 2008. One of his earliest challenges was the opening of the hotel’s East Tower, an additional 125 rooms added to the existing 121rooms of the property. His contribution being part of the task force helped in this transition. He is a great inspiration to his team and is very well respected by all his team members. Nicholas has motivated and trained several of his staff members and contributed greatly to their career growth within the department. This also reflects in the company’s annual employee survey, known as Climate Analysis. Nicholas’ departmental score showed high results at 90.8% for the year 2011, clearly highlighting his leadership qualities in managing and motivating his team. The Engineering department is now one the hotels department with minimum staff turnover of 0.43%.
Above and beyond the call of duty…
Nicholas has developed the hotel’s roundabout, a onetime investment with zero utility cost. With the help of solar lighting and condensate water the roundabout is one of the first eco-friendly areas around. This is one of the leading examples of the hotel’s Responsible Business activities. Nicholas designed a simple system by which the Engineering Department is able to collect the condensate water from the hotels large air-conditioning units. The water collected is not only being used for the roundabout but also for the hotel’s water features and lobby fountains. Due to the large amounts of water being collected in the summer months he has had the water chemically tested and passed so that it can be diverted to the hotels tanks for further use. It was Nicholas’s initiative to coordinate and execute an annual visit to an autism centre as a part of the hotel’s various RB activities. Along with his entire engineering team they serviced the air-conditioning units and helped with any technical assistance needed – all free of charge. He is one of the pioneers of a special campaign called The Box Appeal which provides Dubai’s construction sector workers. This program now runs successfully and annually for the Rezidor Hotel Group ever since it was initiated in 2009. The campaign has exceeded its expectation with over Dh 2 million worth of donation collected which was just the start. Nicholas has been instrumental in our community and environment efforts which are a part of our annual Responsible Business campaign. His ability to inspire teams and constantly lead new ideas has worked very well within the last years. Several path-breaking decisions and initiatives are led by Nicholas and impact of these decisions is far reaching.
Testimonial for Nicholas
“Nicholas has been instrumental in driving our community and environmental efforts which are an important part of our annual Responsible Business Plan. His ability to inspire his team and come up with new ideas has lead to some great initiatives over the years.” Francois Galoisy, hotel general manager.