A decade ago, the VOU Dance danced on stage, providing entertainment for attendees of a tourist awards show.
This year, things were different as the group returned to the ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort on Denarau last Saturday, this time to claim an award win of their own.
This is the group’s first tourism award. The group scooped gold in Training and Development.
Group managing director Sachiko Soro described their win as a “crazy full circle moment” as arts were recognised at the nation’s awards ceremony.
“This is so surreal. We were dancing at these awards 10 years ago and now we are winning awards,” she said.
“I can’t believe it. It hasn’t sunk in. All I know is that I am in love with the magical invisible line.
The connection between performers and the audience is when they get goosebumps, gasp, laugh, feel inspired, and feel connected.”
She said there was value in creative careers for young Fijians.
“It’s so fun and rewarding and the camaraderie of the team is fulfilling. I’m not saying it’s not hard having a career in dancing is gruelling and requires grit but it’s never boring,” she said.
“Thank you for all the hard work you put in and I know I will continue to serve you, the arts, tourism, and Fijian youth until I keel over and die!”
The silver winner was Raffe Hotels & Resorts and the bronze winner was Marriott International Hotels Fiji.
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