Meet Shahid - The man creating Cosy Villas
Where Every Detail is Crafted for You by Hussain Shahid, Villa Attendant
At Veligandu, every smile, every detail, and every moment of care comes from the people who call this island their second home. Among them is Hussain Shahid, one of our dedicated Villa Attendants. His easy smile and quiet dedication immediately make you feel at home. But behind the warm service is a story that began far from the polished wooden decks and turquoise lagoons of Veligandu. This story is woven with his childhood memories, personal touches, and his deep love for hospitality.
“I was born and raised in Lhaviyani Kurendu,” Shahid begins, eyes lighting up as he recalls his childhood. “Looking back, I truly had the best childhood one could ever imagine. We were free from screens and smartphones. Our life then was all about fun, playing outside, swimming, and visiting nearby islands during festive holidays. People respected each other, and there was no stress or instability. It was simple, pure island life with full of joy.” Those memories of swimming every Friday and festive island visits remain vivid even today, but hospitality wasn’t always in his plan. “To be honest, as a child I had no goal or vision,” he smiles. Yet fate had its way. A phone call from the Human Resources of Veligandu, changed the course of his life.
“HR personnel told me there was an opening for a Room Attendant. I applied, got selected, and that was the beginning of my journey at Veligandu Maldives.” That was nearly five years ago. He remembers his very first day vividly. Stepping onto the island during the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic. “I stayed in quarantine for 14 days in a guest water villa. Even though it was a challenging time, the care we received was incredible. I felt at home right away.”
Since then, Veligandu has become his world. Shahid continues to embrace the role of Villa Attendant with pride. “I started as a Room Attendant, and I am still doing the same job today. I love what I do, so I haven’t felt the need to change roles. Every day starts before sunrise.
After breakfast and the daily briefing, I check my assigned guest’s movements, arrivals and departures. Then plan my day accordingly. My focus is always on completing tasks on time without compromising quality, because every detail matters.”
Housekeeping is more than just cleaning. It is discipline, hygiene, safety, and the art of making spaces feel special. Adding personal touches that make the space standout.
A Journey of Care
“I add personal touches like bed decorations, towel art, leaf art and even small messages handwritten on leaves. Guests appreciate these little surprises, and they make me happy too.”
His favourite? “The Underwater Theme bed decoration. It’s unique, and it tells a story about the Maldives and Veligandu.” Romantic bed decorations are especially cherished by couples, and he admits that those often receive the warmest appreciation from guests and even recognition from the housekeeping leaders.
Memories with guests and colleagues make the journey even more special. “Every time my name appears on TripAdvisor or social media, I feel proud. I have met repeat guests who look for me when they return. That makes everything worthwhile. Guests, too, leave words that stay close to my heart. When they say they travel a lot, but Veligandu feels different from anywhere else – that really touches me.” Looking back, the memories that I will never forget are the recent project period from 2023 to 2024. We had so much fun, from department trips to jokes during briefings. Those moments bonded us together.”
So, what makes Veligandu different for him? His answer is simple. “The spacious villas, the friendliness of the team, and the natural beauty of the island. The greenery, the lagoon, the housereef, the long stretch of white sandy beach and the Veligandu sandbank. To me, Veligandu is natural, it is family, and it is a secluded haven.”
Outside of work, he finds peace in the ocean; fishing, swimming, and snorkelling. And while he cherishes the present, his dreams are clear. “I want to start a small business, build my own house on my home island, and most importantly, invest in my daughter’s education. Seeing her accomplish her goals will be my proudest achievement.” As he reflects, one truth stands out above all.
“I feel so lucky. Veligandu is one of the oldest resorts in the Maldives, with a rich history. The owners are pioneers of tourism here. To be part of this legacy is an honour.” And his promise to every guest who visits? “We will always tailor our service to meet and even go beyond your expectations.”
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