"On my recent visit to Tonga, I was able to catch up with a number of APTC tourism and hospitality graduates who have returned home after training in Samoa," reported Ms Julie Kean, Samoa Country Manager, APTC School of Tourism and Hospitality.

These graduates include five who are 'the backbone of the workforce' at the Waterfront Cafe and Hotel in Nuku'alofa. Viliami Pale and Sevelino Mafi Ma'asi are chefs at the Waterfront, who also work front of house on occasion, while Analisi Filo supervises the front office for the eight-suite hotel. Bar management and food and beverage service at the hotel are in the capable hands of graduates Mele Folau and Salote Paseka.

Talaifina Mo'unga previously worked in the office for Chatham's Airline, but after completing the tourism program in 2010, she has 'graduated' to air steward on Chatham's flights to Ha'apei and Vava'u, and was on duty for Ms Kean's flight on the Chatham's Convair from Vava'u to Tongatapu.

Teukifalelilo Taumoepenu had previously worked as a kitchen hand at Loumaile Lodge in Nuku'alofa before studying at APTC Samoa in 2010. "Teu now heads up the kitchen staff and is encouraging others to apply to join APTC," said Ms Kean.