Shae Shafeeu, a graduate of the STARTER Programme and a final-year Human Resource Management student from Hithadhoo, Addu City

Began her hospitality career after completing her A Levels and seeking new experiences. An advertisement offering growth opportunities led her to take up a resort internship, which later developed into a full-time role as a Talent and Culture Assistant.

Balancing her studies with long working hours proved challenging. She attended online evening classes four nights a week while adjusting to communal living away from her family for the first time. Shaee soon found her footing in the Human Resources department, handling administrative duties, staff welfare activities and annual flight ticketing for employees completing their contracts. After making an early administrative error, she introduced stricter checking procedures and sought verification from line managers, earning the trust of senior management through her attention to detail.

Now working as a Talent and Culture Assistant, Shaee credits workplace training in telephone etiquette and interpersonal communication for her professional growth. Although balancing work and studies can be demanding, she believes the experience is worthwhile. “Once you get the certificate and graduate, you will know every moment was worth it,” she says, reflecting on how the journey has helped her grow and gain confidence.