Staff Spotlight – Jestrid Fernandes

In this week’s Staff Spotlight we introduce you to the wonderful Jestrid Fernandes, who is a long-standing member of our Karma Concierge India team. Located in the Goa office, Jestrid is the Assistant Operations Manager for India – overseeing many aspects of Memberships and the properties themselves!

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Where are you from and how long have you been working for Karma Group?

I’m from Goa – the place where it all began for the Karma Group! I’ve worked with the Karma Group since 2008. Just realised that it has been 14 years!!! I guess time flies when you’re having fun…

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

My serious face hides a quirky sense of humour – I’m able to make people around me smile!

Where would be your perfect vacation and why?

Bora Bora has been on my bucket list for the longest time. Looking at pictures of the turquoise lagoon, the protected coral reef and small islets with views of Mt. Otemanu instantly transports my mind to a place of peace and calm, no matter how stressed I am.

I’d love to visit for relaxation and rejuvenation and explore the place, taking in its diverse culture and history.

Is there anything special about your hometown/region that would interest our Members? eg. famous for anything? Speciality food? Special activities?

Goa has long been popular for its sand, sea and sun. Although these continue to be a big part of the allure, there’s a lot more our State offers.

Visiting during the monsoon allows you to witness green all around, streams, rivers and rivulets are in full flow and are a gorgeous sight.

All festivals are celebrated with much enthusiasm. So if you’re visiting during Ganesh Chaturthi or Christmas, especially, you can experience first-hand the camaraderie and unity with which everyone – irrespective of religion – joins in.

Everyone knows about the seafood, but the small stalls by the road selling popular Goan snacks are also something I would encourage you to try! 

What do you enjoy most about your team and work environment at Karma Concierge India?

What I like best is being given a chance to contribute with our opinions, perspectives and insights. We’re always encouraged to upskill and learn new skills to help us grow personally and to achieve our goals as a team. I have personally been given various opportunities to grow and progress in my role within the company.

Which Karma Group property in India is your favourite and why?

While I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many of the Karma Group properties in India, Karma Chakra in Kerala really stands out for me. The ambience and experience of being in ‘God’s Own Country’ is surreal. If given the opportunity, I’d most definitely go back!

Anything else you’d like to share?….

Being part of the Karma Group has been a blessing in more ways than one. Looking back on my journey over the last 14 years, I can see how much I have grown and changed – personally and professionally. The opportunities, the guidance, and the support have been invaluable.

I’m grateful for the assistance from my colleagues, the direction from my General Manager, Jessica Fernandes and the encouragement from our M.D., Esperanca Patricio and President – Sales and Marketing, Kevin Augustine.