Before joining Palm Court, Ms Mokura was employed at the five-star hotel, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay in food and beverage.
Vilisita Mokura is a barista and provides food and beverage service at Palm Court Bistro at QBE Arcade in Suva.
She has had a relatively long career in hospitality. Starting in 2008 as a part-time worker at the Republic of Cappuccino Café in Suva, Ms Mokura juggled her first work experience at the cafe while attending school. She then moved to Nadi to be a barista before returning to Suva for her husband, Te Smith who was a boat builder at the Royal Suva Yacht Club.
Before joining Palm Court, Ms Mokura was employed at the five-star hotel, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay in food and beverage.
She grew up on the Kuladrusi Estate in Savusavu with her four brothers and parents, both of whom worked as labourers on the property.
Ms Mokura, however, did not plan on pursuing a career in hospitality. Her initial goal was to be a lawyer and work in fashion.
Now Ms Mokura’s dream is to use her years of experience and knowledge to open her own bar and restaurant like Palm Court in her hometown of Savusavu.
SunBiz spoke to the Palm Court barista to learn more about her career, favourite food and travel experiences in Fiji so far, and her recommendations to first-time visitors to Savusavu.
What Are Your Favourite Menu Items At Palm Court?
Steak and fries. My favourite drink is iced mocha. We use vanilla ice cream, a shot of coffee and chocolate, four ice cubes, milk, and blend.”
What Do You Enjoy Most About Your Job?
Every day you meet new people. Every day you come across people who make you laugh and make your day.
What Have You Learnt From Your Career In Hospitality So Far?
You have to be hardworking and honest. Be positive, go with the flow, and don’t take home what happens at work.
What Is Your Favourite Place In Fiji That You Have Been To?
Taveuni. I went to Sau Bay Resort and Spa for a holiday. I went with my cousins and their kids. We went for a week because their parents own the resort. It’s a little island next to Taveuni. It was a memorable trip because it was away from everything. It was peaceful.
What Is Your Top Travel Bucket List Destination?
Kadavu. I’ve seen pictures and heard stories about Kadavu. I want to go there one day. I’ve been to the Yasawas, Mamanucas, and Taveuni, but not Kadavu yet.
What Is Your Go-to Spot In Suva To Unwind With Friends And Family?
The Royal Suva Yacht Club in Walu Bay.
We have a boat at the Royal Suva Yacht Club. Once or twice a month I go to the sandbank or Nukulau Island with my husband, Te Smith.
What Do You Recommend First-time Visitors Do In Savusavu?
There’s a lot to do in Savusavu. It’s the ‘Hidden Paradise’.
You can go to the sea, go fishing, diving, climb mountains, go to the waterfalls, or visit the hot springs.
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