Position: Business analyst/musician

Company: Sterling Financial Group/The Falcons Entertainment

Guardian Business: Can you briefly describe your experience in the tourism sector and what your role is today?

Chavala: I've worked from two different perspectives in the tourism industry, both management and service. I am a musician playing steel drums for The Falcons Entertainment, as well as a corporate representative for Sterling Financial Group on real estate development projects, which has given me the opportunity to sit in as interim general manager from time to time for one of our company's boutique out island resorts. I have also just recently been re-elected for the second consecutive year as a director on the Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board.

GB: Why did you choose to work in tourism as a career?

Chavala: With tourism being our top Industry, as well as accounting for a high percentage of our GDP, I chose a path to capitalize and self-actualize on my talents.

GB: What has been your most memorable moment?

Chavala: I continuously have memorable moments and they all come from the guests. Just knowing I played a big role in making someone's event a bit more special, by playing my steel drums while they walk up the isle or a wedding party, embracing me with warm hugs and saying "thank you" for planning and executing, is rewarding for me.

GB: Has the industry changed since you started your career? How?

Chavala: I've been here for 10 years now. I've seen ups and downs and seasons change. What I am seeing more now is the expanding opportunities in New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Out Islands for professional Bahamians. Technology has also enabled the Out Islands via the Internet the ability to market and attract more visitors to the islands from a global standpoint.

GB: What should The Bahamas focus on to stay competitive?

Chavala: In my opinion, the continued focus on the Out Islands would be key. Our natural gifts of sun, sand and turquoise sea will bring them here, but focusing on delivering excellent service will keep them coming back.

GB: What advice would you give to a young person who is considering a career in tourism?

Chavala: A career in tourism requires perseverance and passion for service. Like I stated above, there are expanding opportunities in this industry and I believe Oprah said it best: "Luck is preparation for the right opportunity". People like myself and the other Tourism Champions have been successful by hard work, dedication, delivering efficient and excellent service, and being prepared for the next best opportunity to advance.

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian