Atina De Sousa won ‘Goa’s Women Leaders’ award at the recent Goa Leadership Awards ceremony, making her presence felt in Goa’s hospitality landscape as the youngest entrepreneur and a trailblazer in Goa’s luxury villa hosting industry...
She is only 26. But Atina De Sousa stood out when she accepted Goa’s Women Leaders award at the Goa Leadership Awards ceremony on September 26. As the State's youngest luxury villa hosting entrepreneur, Atina has revolutionised the concept of luxury travel experience. Her exceptional entrepreneurship, stunning style, and warm hospitality have earned her an enviable reputation at a young age.
As an Airbnb superhost, her services through her exquisite villas exceeded the expectations of discerning travellers, providing them with an unforgettable ‘take away’ experience. However, Atina’s achievements are multiple and go beyond the realm of hospitality. She is a certified fitness athlete who has competed in ICN (I Compete Natural) and holds the title of Gold Medalist in two categories – Sports and Fitness Model. Her passion for health and wellness has inspired countless individuals, and as a mentor, she continues to guide others toward holistic well-being.
"This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my team and me and I am set on providing more opportunities to youth to learn and grow along with me in this business," she said, humbled by the recognition as one among the women leaders in Goa. Expanding her dreams, she now eyes on global expansion, and is poised to bring the best luxury stays to travellers worldwide. “Bali, Indonesia, is my next destination,” she discloses, reaffirming her mission to provide unforgettable luxury experiences, promote healthy living, and inspire others to chase their dreams.
“Receiving the Goan Women Leaders Award was truly humbling. It validated my hard work and dedication to creating exceptional hospitality experiences in Goa through my luxury villa business. This recognition motivates me to continue delivering outstanding services and setting new benchmarks,” shares Atina who stepped in this business a year ago, in November 2023.
Her passion for travel took her to launch this venture. Her academic journey equipped her with a solid foundation in marketing, and wellness. A master's degree in Public Relations & Corporate Communications and a diploma in Nutrition and Wellness Sciences enabled Atina to craft unique experiences. She manages a curated portfolio of luxury villas in North Goa, each offering a distinct experience. From intimate getaways to grand celebrations, her villas cater to diverse preferences.
“I've established strategic partnerships, taking villas on lease and some on profit-sharing basis. This approach ensures mutually beneficial relationships and allows me to focus on delivering exceptional services,” she discloses her business secret.
It’s an all-encompassing experience, including gourmet meals curated by her chefs, vehicle rentals and personalised services tailored to each guest's preferences, with attention to detail and flexibility as the key.
In competitive marketing, Atina focuses on delivering exceptional, personalised experiences. She believes that there is competition in every industry, but what makes one stand out is what different you have to offer than the others. “Achieving ‘Airbnb Superhost' status was a milestone which I received after being a host for just three months. Getting a super host badge isn’t easy especially in such a narrow span, maintaining consistency delivering 5-star ratings, and completing over 100 nights,” she admits.
The villa tariffs vary based on factors like property size, amenities, and occupancy. Atina has a wide variety of villas which she suggests understanding the budget and requirements of the clients. She has had the privilege of hosting over 100 discerning travel groups, each with unique stories and preferences. From families to couples and solo travellers, she has learned to tailor experiences so that every guest receives exceptional service.
Atina still remembers the first group of guests that she hosted. “It felt so good to personally interact with the guests, understand what is it they’re looking for, in this whole process you end up meeting with some really wonderful people, there’s so much learning that’s happening at every stage. I believe in effective communication, delivering promised services, and proactive issue resolution. Anticipating needs and providing insider knowledge, giving personalised recommendations enhances the experience.”
Are pets allowed to stay with the travellers? Atina, an animal lover herself, asserts, “Due to certain terms and conditions, all the villas do not permit pets so we do have villas that also welcome pets wholeheartedly. So yes, Understanding the importance of family inclusivity, I strive to make pets feel welcome.”
Atina currently operates from home with a dedicated team of three but she plans to expand and hire local youth. “I aspire to inspire and empower local youth, fostering community growth. Goa being a tourism hub in our country, I want to encourage and help more youth to get into the biz.”
Atina is not the first generation business woman in the family. She is carrying forward her parent’s entrepreneurial legacy. “I’ve seen them ace in every aspect of life and that just pushes me to be better every day. I always aspired to be an entrepreneur, a leader who inspires people around through work, character, personality and 'never give up' attitude,” shares this promising entrepreneur who has big plans.
“I aim to expand globally. I plan on introducing innovative travel-fitness experiences, it’s too soon to be spoken about as it’s still in the planning process but I can assure it’s going to be unique,” quips Atina who had decided early on in life to create something herself rather than work to build someone else’s dream.
“Today’s youth lack the ‘risk factor’ but one has to be willing to take the leap of faith and risk it. No doubt there are ups and downs, and that is in every job. But what ultimately matters is, you are doing something for yourself and living your own dreams. Young entrepreneurs should take calculated risks, pursue passions with determination and believe in self. Success will follow,” advises Atina.
