On September 25, 2021, Hamanasi hosted a COVID safe and virtual Annual General Meeting. Several televisions were placed around the resort and a pre-recorded meeting video played at the same time. Giggles sounded throughout the property as the entire staff watched the then & now photo segment, motivational speeches and testimonials, as well as the employee awards.
After everyone had a good laugh during the humorous employee award categories, the Employee of the Year awards for each department were announced. These are truly special awards that recognizes staff members for their hard work, dedication, and leadership qualities. Picking the Employee of the Year for each department was an immense challenge, but they went to some incredibly talented and deserving members or our staff. After all, every staff member at Hamanasi goes above and beyond to make the Hamanasi experience an amazing one.
Delvin Tulcey – Food & Beverage
Delvin has been with Hamanasi since November 2015. He is an extremely versatile person who has played many different roles in the Food & Beverage department. He works at the bar, by the pool, as a server, and even as a supervisor. It is because of this attribute that Doug Usher, the Food & Beverage Manager, said, “Delivn has grown to become one of the most valuable members on the F&B team.” Delvin embraces learning new skills and using them to enhance the team, as well as create a great experience for the guests. Delvin’s skills and willingness to contribute to the team is an attribute that has caught the attention of Rose, our Operations manager. She stated that this award is, “Well deserved — I must say I am very proud!”
Owen Caliz – Kitchen
Owen has been working in the Hamanasi’s Singanga restaurant kitchen since January 2018. His work ethic and positive nature affect all those who are around him. Doug Usher, F&B manager said, “Owen was selected for his hard work and dedication. He has shown great team spirit in bringing the dishwashers together. His dedication and willingness to fill gaps when team members are out sick and work extra shifts to ensure the work is done.” This is a quality also noticed by Resort Manager Larry Vanegas who commented to Owen, “You don’t think twice about it. You jump on the task at hand and contribute where necessary.” This is a valuable attribute at Hamanasi, and we thank you for being a part of the team!
Arne Guerra – Inland Guide
Arne is an incredible go-getter and team player in the Adventure Center. He, without a doubt, is willing to go above and beyond when out on a tour or performing other tasks. As Rob Bachas, the Adventure Center Manager puts it, “He is always willing to go the extra mile to help not only his team, but the resort as a whole.” He has worked at Hamanasi since April 2014, and since then has shown us all how far being detail-oriented and driven can take you. Larry commented that, “He is a hard worker and keeps going and going and going.” Keep on smiling and keep up the great work, Arne!
BJ Ariola – Marine Guide
Over the years, BJ has shown us that he is here at Hamanasi to learn, grow, and become the best version of himself personally and professionally. He started as an Adventure Center team member in September 2018. Since then, he has become a reliable top-man and, recently, a certified tour guide. We know that when our guests go out snorkeling with BJ, they are in good hands. Rob expressed that BJ is, “Always willing to work extra with a smile on his face. His jovial behavior is addictive, and he is great on the team.” This is so true and we at Hamanasi look forward to being a part of his journey. As Larry stated, “Keep pushing, keep reaching, the sky’s the limit!”
Stacey McKenzie – Guest Services
We all know that Hamanasi’s guests are in great hands when Stacey is at the front of the house! A dedicated employee since June 2017, Stacey has embraced her leadership role and gained the trust of the guests and the employees that she leads. “Stacey accepts any task or challenge she is faced with and makes it look easy. That is what makes her the great employee she is,” stated Guest Services Manager Melonie Flores. Stacey never comes across as defeated and pushes to the end, and is always working towards achieving great results. Guests love the wealth of knowledge she brings to the Front Desk. There could not be a more dynamic ‘Face of Hamanasi’ and deserving winner of this award than Stacey Mckenzie.
Alvin Garcia – Grounds
While walking around the Hamanasi property, there is one thing that everyone observes, which is how pristine the landscaping is. This is credited to an amazing grounds and landscaping team and in particular, an awesome employee, Alvin Garcia. A fun and energetic person, Alvin has brought that gusto to the team since October 2018. Adam Jagge, the Maintenance Manager, had these praises, “Mr. Alvin Garcia is an energetic young man. He is willing to undertake any tasks required and is a keen learner. He started off in the recycling center and is now taking care of the Resort swimming pool. He has shown growth in his position and could be a future supervisor.” Congratulations, Alvin!
Elvis Gonzales – Maintenance
Have you ever noticed the amazing craftsmanship found on the Hamanasi property? A noteworthy member of the team that makes this happen and the winner of the Employee of the Year award for the maintenance department is Elvis Gonzales! He has been a member of the Hamanasi family since August 2012. Elvis is recognized for being a team leader and is incredibly skilled and capable. His manager Adam expressed that, “Elvis Gonzalez is an excellent carpenter and is not afraid of taking on any challenging duties presented to him. He has a good work ethic and is willing to assist anyone whenever required too. He plays a huge role as a father figure in the wood shop and helps run carpentry when Selvin Arevalo (Supervisor) is away.” We hope you will enjoy Elvis’ handiwork!
Lisa Ventura – Housekeeping
Elizabeth ‘Lisa’ Ventura is a one of a kind member of the Hamanasi Housekeeping department since December 2018. She is the type of person you always want to have around, always in good spirits and jovial. As Rose stated, “Lisa, oh my goodness, talk about team player! Elizabeth is the person to call if you need anything. She is always happy to serve with a big smile. Not only is she a great member to a team, she is also upbeat, positive and super dependable.” Hats off to Lisa for keeping our guest rooms sparkling clean!
Phillip Palacio – Covid Team
Phillip has been with Hamanasi, as a groundsman since June 2011. When Hamanasi reopened in November, 2020 after lockdown, Phillip took up the challenge of joining the COVID team. He is known for his contagious laughter and being so full of energy. He is a positive and essential member of the team. “Phillip has really shown his dedication to Hamanasi, showing up to work every day, during a Pandemic, in good spirits and ensuring that all our COVID safety protocols are being maintained, and doing so with a positive attitude” says Launce Roberts, General Manager. We appreciate that Phillip helps keeps us all healthy!
Denton Palacio – Security
With only one year of employment under his belt, this stellar Employee of the Year comes from the security department. From the very first day, he has shown a willingness to grow and learn, while always demonstrating a positive attitude. Denton does his part to make sure we all feel safe on the Hamanasi property. “Denton is a person keen to details, very responsible and a great communicator. He loves being a part of the Hamanasi family because it is well structured and enables employees to grow” says Francis Zuniga, his Security Supervisor. You’ll rest easily at Hamanasi with Denton a part of the team.
At Hamanasi, we are blessed to have an entire staff of amazing people. Together as a family, we’ve achieved some incredible things. A special congratulations to all of the Employee of the Year Award winners. Your hard work and dedication is what makes Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort such a special place!
