From Challenges to Triumph: Kumudu’s Journey to Leadership in Hospitality
In the dynamic hospitality industry once deemed a man’s world, women are now breaking this glass ceiling and making their mark. Among them is Kumudu Sepali, a woman of incredible strength and resilience, whose inspiring success story defies all odds and norms. Her journey, spanning over three decades, reflects not only her personal triumphs along the way but also how she challenges age-old norms associated with women in the workplace with the strength and support of an inclusive work environment fostered by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
Kumudu’s affinity for the hospitality world traces back to her childhood dreams. “Since childhood, I loved the idea of working in hotels and eventually climbing the ladder to a managerial position,” she recalls with a smile. When she landed her first job in the industry, Kumudu’s childhood fascination evolved into a lifelong passion – a passion that wasn’t just a career choice but a calling to deliver exceptional experiences and make each guest’s stay memorable. “I found joy in creating unforgettable experiences for guests and I embraced the dynamic nature of this industry with open arms. It was a decision that marked the beginning of my very fulfilling career in hospitality, driven by a genuine passion for serving others and making their stay with us special.”
As Kumudu gained confidence in the hospitality industry, she became a role model for her relatives and her neighbourhood. Her commitment and steady success inspired not only her community but also her daughter and son to follow in her footsteps, a decision she proudly encouraged and supported. Having support is essential to make it in this industry, Kumudu says, recalling that when she started out, she had little to no encouragement. In fact, she was actively discouraged to join the industry. “My neighbours and a few senior colleagues often discouraged me by saying the hospitality industry is best suited for males, and that I should embrace the role of a traditional housewife.”
Undeterred, Kumudu strived to make her childhood dreams a reality, her motivation rooted in her genuine belief that the industry offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and fulfilment. “I wanted to break such ideas about women’s roles in the workplace and prove to all those people that women can be equally capable leaders in the professional arena,” she states boldly, highlighting her determination to challenge stereotypes.
It was at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts that Kumudu got the opportunity to prove her previous convictions.Kumudu’s journey with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts began as a trainee-stewardess in the F&B Department. From the very beginning, the hotel has been more than just an employer – Kumudu calls it ‘her second family’ and the catalyst for her growth as they nurtured and guided her throughout her career. “The hotel has been like a second family for me. That’s what kept me going in my career, I wanted to give something back to the place that helped me nurture and grow,” she expresses gratefully.
Over the years, her dedication, hard work and passion propelled her career forward. Today, she serves as the Executive Housekeeper, supervising a team of about 40 housekeepers. Achieving her childhood dream of obtaining a managerial position is not just a personal accomplishment for Kumudu but it is also a source of inspiration for aspiring women in the industry.
“I always tell the young females in the hotel – whether they are trainees or supervisors or even executives, to be strong when facing tough situations and not to let anyone discourage them,” Kumudu advises, emphasizing that women in particular have to be resilient, determined and tenacious to succeed in the hospitality sector.
In breaking gender stereotypes, Kumudu’s success story demonstrates that an individual’s determination to succeed can lead to remarkable achievements when fostered in a supportive and inclusive work environment. Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts’ role in cultivating such a workplace for women is evident in Kumudu’s journey – a journey that proves that the industry is no longer only favourable to men but welcomes and encourages women to excel.
For young individuals looking for opportunities of growth in the hospitality world, Kumudu is an inspiration and testament to the potential the industry has to offer. The confidence she gained, the growth she experienced with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, and her ability to overcome challenges all contribute to a narrative of success that defies societal expectations and transcends traditional gender roles.
As the hospitality industry beckons to new talents, success stories such as Kumudu’s are a symbol of what can be achieved when employers strive to inculcate an inclusive work environment that actively values and supports the success of their talent pool.
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