Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gaël Rangain
Published on 2024-03-09 15:00:15
To mark International Women’s Day, The Lux Collective highlights these inspiring women who embody the group’s values. Under the theme #InspireInclusion, it reaffirms its commitment to an inclusive and equal work environment where every woman is heard, valued, and finds her place at the top. Convinced of the power of inclusion and diversity, the company aims to inspire others to embrace these principles to build a better world.
The Lux Collective positions itself as a leader in empowering women globally. By fostering talent and advocating for diversity in leadership, the company paves the way for a more equitable future where women’s voices are amplified at the highest levels of decision-making.
**Sustainability at the forefront**
As Chief Sustainability Officer, Evita Fakun masters international governance standards, such as anti-corruption measures and non-discrimination, while overseeing environmental issues like net zero emissions targets and biodiversity conservation. She promotes an integrated approach to sustainability within the group by supporting human rights and labor through sustainability reporting standards and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Her commitment to setting industry standards has propelled The Lux Collective onto global platforms, showcasing its sustainability initiatives. Evita has been invited to speak at special UN sessions on Covid-19 and the inaugural panel of the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit on climate action, highlighting the importance of circularity, responsible consumption, and biodiversity conservation. She believes self-motivation, embracing femininity, and intentional growth are essential for the success of women leaders.
**Intentional strategy**
For Marie Laure Ah-You, Chief Strategy Officer, what inspires her at The Lux Collective is the organization’s strategic vision to transcend its usual boundaries and venture into unexplored markets, such as China and beyond. She appreciates the freedom to initiate new ideas to strengthen performance and organizational culture. Working closely with the leadership team, she develops the group’s strategic plans and collaborates with the operational team to define and audit operational and service standards for each of the four group brands. She has conceptualized numerous initiatives, including the Circle of Care, which rewards hotels for their positive contributions to the local community, environment, guest experience, and employee well-being. Marie Laure believes in hard work and integrity while remaining true to her values. She played a crucial role in the global expansion of the company, enriching her personal experience within the executive board.
**Developing people**
Smita Modak, Group Head of Learning and Development and Talent Management, leads initiatives to enhance the skills, knowledge, and well-being of group members. Through strategic partnerships, she collaborates with industry experts and leaders to implement development programs that strengthen culture, promote excellence, and ensure overall team growth. With over ten years of experience at The Lux Collective, Smita has led and contributed to several group transformation projects and initiatives, each representing a unique learning opportunity for her. Inspired by the group’s fundamental mission “We Make Each Moment Matter. We Care About What Matters,” her initiatives have always had a significant impact by bringing positive changes to the entire team.
**Holistic well-being**
Kerensa Langitan, Group Spa and Wellness Manager, promotes an integrated concept of holistic well-being within The Lux Collective. She oversees the operational aspects of new opening projects, including the spas at the future Sharjah Resorts hotels, LUX* Al Jabal, and LUX* Al Bridi, as well as the development of existing spas, including the reopening of LUX* Belle Mare in October 2023. The LUX* ME Spa, advocating wellness and sophistication, constantly raises standards, with the LUX* ME Spa at LUX* Grand Baie recently receiving the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide 2024 Five-Star Award – a testament to Kerensa’s efforts. Within The Lux Collective, Kerensa seizes the opportunity to continue her studies in business management, allowing for personal and professional development. She recognizes the importance of innovation and resilience. Passionate about body, mind, and soul care to find the perfect balance, she has connected her vision to her career, inspiring younger team members in the process.
**Culinary inspirations**
Nancy Kinchela, Executive Chef at LUX* Belle Mare, highlights the stimulating atmosphere conducive to innovation and creativity created by The Lux Collective. She actively encourages women to find their passion and lead as a source of inspiration for others, remaining curious and acquiring new skills with determination. After a year of extensive renovations, LUX* Belle Mare now features five restaurants. Nancy oversees the culinary team, training, menu planning, food safety, quality control, and purchasing. Her work in the kitchen creates opportunities for collaboration with industry professionals, contributing to elevating gastronomy to new heights. As a global leader in luxury hospitality, The Lux Collective continues to shape careers through mentorship programs, support, leadership development initiatives, and by caring about what matters, inspiring future generations.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
