Interview With Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort
J-1 Interview Sessions Around the World
Along the sacred shores of Kahuwai Bay, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is an iconic Big Island hideaway rooted in the legacy and moʻolelo (stories) of the native Hawaiians who came before. This iconic resort invites guests to experience an inviting retreat where history and modern luxury converge. As you step into this sustainably renewed former ancient fishing village, you will be welcomed with the profound warmth of local hoʻokipa (hospitality of complete giving). Designed as a haven for families and travelers of all ages, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort promises a unique blend of ancient tradition and contemporary elegance, offering an unparalleled escape into the heart of Hawaii's cultural and natural splendor.
Since its opening in 2023, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort valued the importance of cultural exchange and provided opportunities to international candidates to gain hands-on experience in luxury hospitality through their fantastic J-1 Intern & Trainee Programs.
The J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs offered by them not only serve as a valuable stepping stone for career advancement but also provide international students, graduates, and young professionals with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cultural diversity, build meaningful connections, enhance their personal skills, and explore the vibrant cultural activities in Hawaii.
International Trainee Network & Odyssey International Exchange currently host J-1 Interns and Trainees who have ventured beyond their comfort zones to experience their American Journeys at this renowned 5-star resort. To mark this occasion, we arranged an exclusive interview with Justice Alvarez, the former Talent and Culture Coordinator at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort.
Driven by a deep commitment to nurturing talent and celebrating diversity, Justice Alvarez has played a pivotal role in guiding the J-1 Intern and Trainee Programs. In our exclusive interview, he offers a wealth of insights into the program's impact. Discover how Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, is dedicated to fostering an environment that bridges cultures and encourages personal and professional growth, all while promoting transparency and a sense of ownership.
We sincerely thank Justice Alvarez for taking the time to speak with us. Dive into the world of professional growth and cultural exchange through this exclusive interview:
1. How does the J-1 Visa Program align with your company’s values and mission?
Kona Villa, A Rosewood Resort values are Ownership, Passion, Transparency, Innovation and Collaboration. All of these align perfectly with the J-1 Visa Program, as we want our participants to utilize their passion and innovative ways of thinking to take ownership and collaborate with team members in a transparent manner.
The experiences our participants get at this property will allow them to utilize and grow their skill sets and understanding of our values.
2. What do you look for in a candidate when recruiting J-1 Interns & Trainees?
The big thing we look for in participants is their desire to learn and a willingness to share new ideas. The staff we have here is very experienced in their respective roles, so they are amazing at teaching and training.
And a special thing about our property is we are brand new which allows us to really create things from scratch so being an innovative individual will allow you to share ideas and help develop solutions.
3. How do J-1 Interns & Trainees contribute to the diversity and culture within your workplace?
Hawaii is one of the most diverse places in the world and our staff is a perfect representation of that. We have over a dozen different nationalities represented throughout our property. So not only will our participants be able to connect with someone of similar heritage, they will get to experience a variety of different cultures and share theirs with the team.
4. How does the experience at your company prepare them for future roles in the luxury hospitality industry?
Experience at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is truly invaluable in regard to obtaining a future role in Luxury Hospitality. Our resort is the only of its kind in Hawaii, and is a leader in sustainability initiatives not only in Hawaii but the Rosewood brand overall.
These special components of our property along with the detailed training and unique experiences participants will receive will leave them highly qualified for another role at a luxury property.
5. What kind of training and development opportunities does your company provide to J-1 Interns & Trainees?
Our property is very focused on ensuring that our J-1 Participants receive high quality training and development. Participants start their program with our three day orientation program called Perfect Discovery. The first two days focus on learning company standards as well as the history of Rosewood as a brand overall.
The third day is an immersive cultural experience where participants learn directly from our Cultural Manager about the history of our property while receiving a hands on tour.
6. How does your company facilitate the integration of J-1 Program Participants into the team and the wider community?
Our J-1 Interns & Trainees will be mixed in with traditional associates in our orientation program which starts the integration process. Secondly participants are paired up with a trainer for their first three weeks that will constantly be by their side mentoring and guiding them.
During this process their trainer will introduce them to their coworkers and help foster positive relationships. All new team members get their photo, name and position posted in the employee cafeteria digital bulletin board for a week that allows existing staff to easily identify them.
7. Could you share a success story of a J-1 Intern or Trainee who made a significant impact during their time with your company?
During my second week check in with a participant I asked how they were adjusting to Hawaii and they shared how happy they are being here. They shared that they were going through some rough depression in their home country, but in a very short time in Hawaii and with Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort they were back to their positive self once again.
8. What feedback have you received from J-1 participants about their experience with your company?
We have received extremely positive feedback from all of our participants. As the J-1 Coordinator I meet with participants frequently and any time I ask what their favorite part of their role is they always say the people. They share that the team and culture we have created here is very positive, supportive and inclusive and they want to stay here permanently. Participants who have done programs previously also share that our accommodation package is the nicest they have ever experienced.
J-1 Intern & Trainee Programs In The United States
Embarking on a J-1 Intern or Trainee Program in Hospitality or Culinary Arts opens doors to an array of exciting opportunities for both personal and professional development.
Whether you are looking to enhance your skills in Food & Beverage, Rooms Division, Culinary Arts, or Pastry, or seeking to build lasting connections, travel, and immerse yourself in American culture, the BridgeUSA J-1 Program offers the opportunity to explore and grow.
We have available opportunities for J-1 Intern and Trainee Program in the United States all year round and we encourage you to visit our website to explore the current options and check back regularly for new opportunities.
When you register for a program with us, you'll get updates on new opportunities and ensure your profile is prepared for potential interviews with your ideal hotel, resort, or restaurant as openings arise. Be sure to register well in advance and get in contact with an ITN representative for assistance. To start your registration, please complete the application form here, and an ITN Representatives will guide you through the process.
