By Innocent Samuel APPIAH
In a spectacular display of Ghanaian pride and hospitality, Sunlodge Hotel celebrated its golden jubilee with a extravagant gala that paid compliment to the unwavering dedication and exceptional service of its esteemed staff. The event, held in the hotel’s magnificent grand ballroom, was evidence to the institution’s remarkable journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a beacon of excellence in the country’s hospitality industry.
At the heart of the festivities were the hotel’s most valuable assets – its devoted employees, many of whom have been with the institution for over a decade. Taking the stage, Kwame Obeng-Ansong, the hotel’s visionary CEO, delivered a stirring speech that brimmed with emotion and gratitude. “It is with immense pride and profound appreciation that I stand before you tonight,” he began, his voice resonating with the audience. “For it is your tireless efforts, your innovative spirit, and your relentless pursuit of excellence that have elevated this institution to the heights it has reached.”
Mr. Obeng-Ansong recounted Sunlodge’s origins as a simple front desk setup in the mid-2000s, and how, through the unwavering dedication of its staff, it had blossomed into a thriving hospitality empire. “Each and every one of you – from our front desk attendants to our culinary artists, from our meticulous housekeepers to our tireless maintenance crew – have played a vital role in cementing Sunlodge’s reputation as a beacon of Ghanaian hospitality,” he declared, his words met with thunderous applause.
The CEO went on to emphasize the importance of maintaining the highest standards of service excellence, stating that it was the defining factor between a 3-star and a 2-star hotel. “It is our shared responsibility to strive for the best,” he said, “ensuring that our guests leave with lasting, memorable experiences that keep them returning to Sunlodge time and time again.”
As the ceremony progressed, the spotlight shone on the hotel’s long-serving employees, who were recognized for their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions. Employees who had been with Sunlodge from five to 25 years and above were called to the stage, each one greeted with a standing ovation from their appreciative colleagues.
In her address, a Director, Mrs. Jacqueline Obeng-Ansong praised the staff’s unwavering commitment to excellence, which has been instrumental in positioning Sunlodge as a premier destination for travelers seeking unparalleled hospitality experiences.
She emphasized how the hotel’s success over the past five decades is a direct result of the tireless efforts, expertise, and dedication of its employees, who have consistently adapted to the evolving needs of discerning guests.
“I am truly humbled and inspired by the passion, the drive, and the exceptional talent that our staff bring to work every single day. Your unwavering dedication to delivering an unmatched hospitality experience, your willingness to continuously learn, grow, and adapt to the evolving needs of our discerning guests, and your steadfast commitment to the Sunlodge brand have been instrumental in our sustained success and our ability to set new benchmarks for excellence within the industry.
“Today, we gather to honor and celebrate your remarkable achievements. These awards are a testament to your hard work, your innovative spirit, and your steadfast contribution to the growth and prosperity of Sunlodge Hotel over the past five decades. Each of you, in your own unique way, has played a vital role in shaping the hotel’s legacy and positioning it as a premier destination for travelers seeking an unparalleled hospitality experience,” she maintained.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, the CEO reiterated his belief in the endless possibilities that lay ahead for Sunlodge Hotel. “With your continued support and innovative mindset, I am confident that we will continue to lead the way in Ghana’s hospitality industry,” he stated, “setting new benchmarks for service, sustainability, and guest satisfaction.”
The General Manager, Mr. Joseph Daniel Derkyi, who has been with the hotel for 25 years, shared his personal journey and vision for the future. “25 years ago, I joined Sunlodge as a young, ambitious marketing professional, eager to contribute to the growth and evolution of Ghana’s hospitality industry.
Today, as the General Manager of this esteemed establishment, I am humbled to lead a team of hospitality professionals who have raised the bar for service excellence, not just within these walls, but across the entire tourism landscape of Ghana.”
As the event drew to a close, the Sunlodge family basked in the glow of their achievements, united by a shared sense of pride and purpose. The 50th anniversary celebration had not only honored the hotel’s remarkable journey but had also served as a powerful reminder of the invaluable role played by the dedicated staff who have made Sunlodge a true icon of Ghanaian hospitality.
The evening’s climax came as two long-serving employees, Elvis Dwamena and Selassie, took to the stage to share their personal stories on behalf of their fellow awardees. Their heartfelt speeches resonated deeply with the audience, who erupted in thunderous applause, underscoring the family-like bond that unites the Sunlodge team.
As the thunderous applause faded, the Sunlodge family basked in the glow of their achievements, united by a shared sense of pride and purpose.
The 50th anniversary celebration had not only honored the hotel’s remarkable journey but had also served as a powerful reminder of the invaluable role played by the dedicated staff who have made Sunlodge a true icon of Ghanaian hospitality.
