Work Related
How long have you been with us at Sparkling Hill?
I’ve been with Sparkling Hill since May of 2017.
Why did you choose to work at Sparkling Hill Resort?
I wanted to return to hospitality after trying something new and Sparkling Hill had a position open. I had heard wonderful things about Sparkling Hill and was thrilled about the chance to work at a one of a kind resort.
What past education, experiences or career paths have lead you to your current position?
Since I was young I was interested in the hotel industry. Hotels and resorts are exciting places where you get to interact with guests in a very special way and create an amazing and memorable experience for them. My first position was as a night auditor at a small hotel in North Vancouver, and since that time I was fortunate to work with many amazing teams and managers who helped develop my skills in hotel management as I worked my way up. After trying something new in 2016 I realized that hospitality was where I found the most joy and at that point I was absolutely thrilled to be welcomed into the Sparkling Hill team.
How would you describe Sparkling Hill Resort’s internal culture?
Sparkling Hill is a family. Every member of this team is committed to providing a truly enjoyable experience for our guests, but also to helping one another succeed. It is a group of people that are knowledgeable, experienced and ready to help whenever they can. Even with such a large staff everyone knows each other’s name and will strike up a conversation. It is such a positive atmosphere as soon as you walk in through the doors.
What motivates you on a day to day basis in your role?
What motivates me is to ensure the best possible stay for each and every one of our guests. Every guest is coming to the resort for a different reason; some guests are first-timers and some are repeat guests, but each reservation is unique and requires a great deal of attention to see it through properly to the end. From arrival to departure we want guests to have a truly relaxing and care-free stay, and there is nothing more satisfying than hearing that a guest has had a great time at the resort.
What has been the most memorable experience or opportunity you’ve had since working for a Health & Wellness Resort?
Just meeting and speaking to all of the amazing guests that come through these doors. It’s incredible how far away some guests are coming from to enjoy whole body wellness and I take advantage of each and every opportunity to speak with guests and hear their story.
How are you continuing education or working toward professional goals?
I learn from the people around me every day. The management team here at Sparkling Hill is comprised of hard working professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and experience. I feel very lucky to be working with such a dynamic and effective team and we all support one another to succeed in each of our personal goals.
Life in General
Tell us about your background. Where are you originally from?
I was born in Sarajevo, Former Yugoslavia and moved to Canada when I was very young.
What are you passionate about? What motivates you?
I am passionate about learning new skills and improving them. I want to be the best that I can be so I am always looking for new perspectives and new ways of doing things. I find a great deal of satisfaction in my work and I get excited about going in to work each day.
What do you enjoy doing most during your free time? What are you favorite hobbies?
I enjoy hiking and exploring and I love seeing new places. Most weekends in the summer you will find me in the backcountry looking for a hidden natural gem with my husband and dogs. I enjoy music and socializing with friends as well as cooking! I love putting together elaborate meals for my family and friends.
What do you think is the best thing about living in the Okanagan?
There are so many things to enjoy about the Okanagan from the awesome weather to the interesting people that you meet. My favourite thing so far has been the sense of community that I’ve found here. Everyone is proud of the place they live in and they work hard to make it a better place. I don’t think I’ve ever seen as much community engagement in any other communities that I’ve lived in. People are proud to say that they live in the Okanagan!
What is your favorite food?
I don’t think I could pick one single food since I love so many different things, but one of my favourites is Yugoslavian spinach and cheese pie called ‘zeljanica’. It’s similar to spanakopita and I could eat it forever.
Where in the world have you travelled to? What took you there?
Apart from the country I was born in my family travelled to Vienna when I was very young before we immigrated to Canada. Since then I have travelled all over the country and lived in many cities from Toronto to Winnipeg to Vancouver.
Which destination would you most like to visit and why?
I have always wanted to go to New York City!
What is your favorite book?
I really enjoyed the book ‘The Pillars of the Earth’ by Ken Follett.
If you could have any superpower what would it be?
Teleportation!
Who has been your hero? Someone that you look up to in life?
There are several people that I look up to and people who will have my respect forever, and they are just regular people like friends and old bosses who have overcome obstacles and shared with me their experiences and knowledge.
How do you incorporate Health and Wellness into your life?
I try to keep as active as possible, eat a balanced diet, and stay positive! I always try to be positive and find the good in every situation. As I say every morning to my staff; “Today going to be a great day!”
