BT: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where were you born and raised?
Placide Buduri. I was born and raised in Rwanda (Kigali).
BT: Did you have a role model growing up? If so, who was it? How did he or she inspire you?
PB: My father was my role model growing up, he inspired me to lead, and take responsibility for myself and those around me.
BT: Why do you love what you do? What keeps you going each day?
PB: I love hospitality due to the fact I get to interact with a new person each day. Making someone’s day better or improving their experience is a great feeling.
BT: How did you get into the industry, and did you always see yourself working in this field?
PB: I started as a barista and then tried other positions within hospitality including the rooms department which I enjoyed most. I went to school for something entirely different. Hospitality was never on the table.
BT: What would you consider the most significant thing you’ve learned with the sum of your work experience?
PB: Learning leadership skills was and still is rewarding. To be able to lead a team and watch them grow and succeed is an incredible feeling.
BT: Is there a specific philosophy in life you see yourself living by? How has that helped you succeed?
PB: I love the four agreements by Miguel Ruiz:
Be Impeccable with Your Word.
Don’t Take Anything Personally.
Don’t Make Assumptions.
Always Do Your Best.
Those philosophies apply to everyday life and they have kept me grounded throughout my life and career so far.
BT: You must have a very hectic schedule! What are some of the things you like to do in your spare time?
PB: I like to exercise, play soccer, and walk my dog. I am also a huge foodie, so I go out with my girlfriend to try new cuisine every other weekend.
BT: What do you enjoy most about what you do and what do you find to be most challenging?
PB: I enjoy inspiring my team to be better each day. The most challenging aspect is ensuring the team remains consistent in delivering the best service but it makes it worth it when you achieve that consistency.
BT: What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career in your field, with aspirations of one day being successful?
PB: Hospitality is rewarding spiritually, not so much financially 😊 but what is a better feeling than making someone else’s day/week/month/year better?
To be successful, you must enjoy the process and remain patient for promotion opportunities.
BT: If you had to choose a favorite from Boca Terry’s collection, which product would it be and why would you specifically select it?
PB: I love Boca Terry’s robes. Our guest also enjoys them as they are cozy and comfortable.