News
Sky’s the limit for Tongan tourism student
Emavalu Tohi Talanoalelei, Certificate III in Tourism (Operations) graduate, is putting her tourism skills and knowledge to the test in her new role as a customer service operator at Fua’amotu International Airport, Nuku’alofa with Airport Terminal Services (ATS). Emavalu completed the tourism course in Samoa in semester 1 2009 and within two months of returning to Tonga was interviewed by ATS for the position. Ray Petts, Samoa Tourism Trainer, offered assistance to Emavalu as she was preparing for the interview with a series of questions and direction about how to approach the interview and secure the position . During a recent trip to Tonga Ray, who taught Emavalu, saw her in action during a busy late afternoon shift at the airport.
As customer service operator Emavalu is responsible for public communications in the departure hall and checking carry-on luggage for departing passengers. Miss Tohi said it can be a challenge dealing with customers who try to take too much luggage on board but thanks to her training with the APTC she said she is able to approach customers in a friendly, non-threatening manner and explain the airline requirements. She added that one of her most difficult tasks is ensuring passengers move promptly through the departure hall and into the departure lounge in time. “Sometimes I need to be firm”, she said, “but I understand the passengers want to say goodbye to their family and loved ones before departing and try to work with them to ensure everyone is in the lounge ready for departure on time”.
Working for ATS has opened a world of opportunity for Emavalu and she hopes to become a team leader or supervisor in 2010. Mr Petts said it was especially pleasing to see graduates in full-time employment and having the opportunity to apply what they had learnt while studying in the college. He said he was impressed with the confidence Emavalu had developed through the course and how this assists her everyday in what can be a stressful occupation.
The next time you are checking in at Fua’amotu International Airport be sure to look out for Emavalu and say hello.
Emavalu Tohi Talanoalelei working in the departure hall at
Fua’amotu International Airport
Emavalu making an announcement to departing passengers