For nearly 17 years, Ani Thompson has been an essential part of Pacific Resort Hotel Group, rising through the ranks to become the Regional Manager for Pacific Resort Rarotonga and Te Manava Luxury Villas and Spa. Her journey is one of determination, lifelong learning, authenticity, and a genuine desire to uplift those around her.

“My biggest driver has always been my love for my island, my culture, and my people,” Ani reflects—a sentiment that has guided her career from the very start. Born and raised in Rarotonga, she carries a profound sense of community, respect, and collaboration. These values are at the heart of her leadership approach, woven seamlessly through her teams to ensure that every member feels recognised and celebrated.

The Art of Leadership
Ani’s path to leadership was not a straight line but rather a series of pivotal moments defined by stepping outside her comfort zone. “Key turning points were the moments I stepped outside my comfort zone — whether it was taking on new responsibilities, leading teams through challenging times like cyclones or the pandemic, or embracing opportunities to develop new skills,” she reflects. This willingness to embrace uncertainty, coupled with a deep-rooted passion for hospitality, propelled Ani from front-line roles to regional leadership.

She believes that good leadership starts with listening and being approachable. “A strong leader listens — really listens!” she emphasises. They also share opportunities, information, and knowledge for everyone’s success, not just their own. For Ani, leadership is not about having all the answers but about creating an environment where her team feels empowered to find them.

Balancing Act: Career and Personal Life
Ani is well-acquainted with the art of balancing personal and professional life. “It’s definitely a juggling act, and some days are harder than others,” she admits. “I’ve learned to be kind to myself and to accept that balance doesn’t mean perfection.”

“My advice to other mums is to build a strong support system, communicate openly with your workplace about your needs, and remember that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Know your worth — but also be prepared to prove it. And just as importantly, be there to support others in return.”

Ani’s personal life is rich with creativity and culture. As part of Coco House Bros, a DJ trio, she has been lighting up the electronic music scene for nearly five years, performing under the alias DJ Anthom. “I love spending time with my family, I love music, and I love to paint,” she shares. For Ani, these passions are not just hobbies but essential parts of staying grounded.

A Lifelong Love for Learning
Ani’s journey has been guided by an insatiable curiosity and a love for learning. “I’ve always believed that learning never stops. Every day is a chance to grow, to understand more, and to do better,” she shares. This mindset has shaped her leadership style, encouraging her team to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.

A Vision for the Future: Sustainability and Community
Looking ahead, Ani is focused on sustainability and community well-being. She is dedicated to integrating eco-friendly practices, supporting local businesses, and ensuring tourism benefits all Cook Islanders. “Hospitality isn’t just about rooms and restaurants; it’s about supporting the community that makes our destination so special,” she explains.

This passion extends beyond the guest experience to her leadership philosophy. By encouraging her team to connect with the community through initiatives like beach clean-ups and cultural events, Ani fosters a deeper sense of purpose. “When we connect with our community, it strengthens our sense of purpose and pride in our work,” she says with conviction.

Authenticity and Culture
“The values of respect, hospitality, and collective responsibility are deeply ingrained in me. In our culture, we welcome visitors like they are family, and I bring that same mindset to my work,” Ani shares. “Everyone has a role to play, and success is shared. I’ve carried that into my leadership style by fostering a sense of family within my teams.” She further emphasises the importance of supporting individual growth and recognising that everyone’s contribution matters.

Empowerment for Youth & Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Ani believes in leading with integrity and encourages her team to do the same. Her message to young people, especially women, is clear: “Be curious, be resilient, and never be afraid to speak up.” It’s advice that she lives by—immerse yourself in learning every aspect, seek out mentors, stay adaptable, and, most importantly, remember that your voice and perspective are valuable. This vision extends to her recent appointment to the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation Board, where she is focused on sustainable growth that preserves the culture and environment of the islands. Her advocacy for local training and development is part of a broader mission to ensure that tourism not only benefits the present generation but also leaves a lasting legacy for the future.

“I hope my legacy is one of empowerment — that I helped create opportunities for others to succeed, that I nurtured a culture of respect and excellence, and that I played a small part in preserving and promoting our beautiful culture and environment for future generations,” Ani reflects