THE journey of Sachana Stephens, Sandals Montego Bay’s newest Diamond Team Member of the Year, began in the serenity of Phoenix Road, nestled in Maroon Town, St James. Stephens, whose childhood was marked by both trials and joys, was raised under the caring guidance of her grandparents. From an early age, she learned the values of self-reliance, honesty, and respect – lessons that would shape her path in remarkable ways.

Transitioning from her tight-knit community to the halls of Maldon High School and later Seaford Town Vocational Training Centre, Stephens’s ambition and her thirst for knowledge were evident. Her first taste of the workforce came at a fast food establishment, where she honed her skills as a production worker. However, it was her entry into the world of hospitality in 2010, on the encouragement of a family member, that truly ignited her passion and somehow allowed her to embark on a life-changing opportunity.

Stephens was first introduced to Sandals through the company’s hospitality training programme, which lasted for six weeks. She was based at Sandals Royal Caribbean.

Confident that Sandals was the right ‘fit’ for her, the young hospitality trainee later secured a job as a cocktail waitress on the night shift at Sandals Montego Bay, Sandal’s flagship resort.

“I was truly excited about having an opportunity to work full-time with Sandals,” she said. Over the years she has worked her way through the ranks from cocktail waitress to beach server, bartender, and her most recent promotion to bar supervisor.

“Sachana is a true representation of what the Diamond Team Member should be. She demonstrates excellence and dedication daily in her work habits and she consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty,” said Anecia Pryce, resort human resource manager.

Reflecting on her time at Sandals Montego Bay, this hospitality professional speaks fondly of the friendships forged and the invaluable experiences she has gained.

“Mostly, I cherish the moments I’ve spent interacting with guests and doing what it takes to ensure their vacations are nothing short of extraordinary.”

Stephens’s dedication shines beyond the bar, from surprising guests with anniversary champagne and personalised drinks to supporting Sandals’ community outreach initiatives and assisting colleagues.

Her journey has been marked by its share of highs and lows, laughter and challenges, however. “Certain roles within the hospitality industry are still new frontiers for us as women, and often we have to work twice as hard to prove that we have what it takes not just to survive but to thrive,” Stephens said. She attributes her progress to the unwavering support of her managers, colleagues, and guests. She also finds inspiration in the increasing number of female bar managers at Sandals.

“The many motivational speeches and encouraging hugs have truly been the wind beneath my wings,” said this flagship ambassador.

She also credits the Sandals Corporate University (SCU) and countless SCU courses in customer service and supervision for having equipped her with the tools to succeed in her role.

For this Sandals superstar though, success is a collective effort – a testament to the camaraderie and teamwork that defines the bar team at Sandals Montego Bay. She humbly acknowledged the contributions of her colleagues, recognising that each member brings something valuable to the table.

At the heart of Stephens’s journey lies a promise to herself and her daughter – a promise to defy expectations, set ambitious goals, share knowledge, and never forget her roots. Her unwavering commitment to service, fuelled by a spirit of generosity and kindness certainly echoes this sentiment and leaves an indelible mark on anyone who has the pleasure of working with her.