Vakaovaci Named NTPC Top Mixologist
Lavenia Vakaovaci was announced the winner of the Cocktail Mixing Competition at this year’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) Hospitality and Tourism Festival. The mother of three, who is a first year student with NTPC pursuing her studies in Food and Beverage, said winning the competition was a stepping stone to achieving greater things. The 2019 NTPC Hospitality and Tourism Festival is being held at the Fiji National University (FNU), Namaka Campus in Nadi. The 30-year-old from Korovisilou in Serua said her enthusiasm and determination was what pulled her through the competition when it first began on Tuesday.
About her preparation
She said her preparation towards the competition was top priority because her passion for preparing cocktails was always there. “On Tuesday, I had prepared a Gin Colada and today as my winning cocktail drink was the Coconut Hewaven Cocktail,” she said. “Spirit and liquor was given to us and we had to be creative when preparing our cocktails. “There were at least 15 competitors who entered the competition and I was lucky enough to be selected in the top six and win.” Ms Vakaovaci said she was previously employed at Namotu Island as a waiter and later decided to stay at home and look after her three children. “This year, I felt that I should further my education and at least get a certificate so I can work at various resorts,” she said. “The main thing for me is to just get much experience so I can and be more skilled in what I do then only I would enjoy my field of work.” First runner up awardee, Sarika Sanjana Prasad, 20, said the competition meant a lot to her. . “This achievement will definitely make my mother proud,” she said. “When the competition started on Tuesday I made a Banana Cocktail and today I prepared a Zombie Cocktail.
Today is teh final day of the 2019 NTPC Hospitality and Festiva;l”