Sustainability
Rafaela Correia is Turning Housekeeping Green
When you think about sustainability, hotels might not be the first thing that springs to mind. But Rafaela Correia is changing that fast. At just 29, she’s the Housekeeping Manager at the Comis Hotel and Golf Resort, and a proud 2025 Gef 30 Under 30 winner in the Sustainability category, supported by UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man. From swapping out plastic bottles for glass to masterminding recycling and composting programmes, Rafaela’s mission is clear: make every little change count, and prove that even behind-the-scenes roles can lead the charge in protecting the planet.
From waitress to manager
Rafaela’s journey started not in an office, but serving tables. It’s her hands-on hospitality roots that give her the insight and passion to run a team that’s not just making beds, but making a real difference.
Her career began in the hospitality industry as a waitress. ‘I started out serving tables and learning how a hotel really works day-to-day,’ Rafaela recalls. ‘That frontline experience gave me a real understanding of guest service, but I was curious about what kept everything running smoothly behind the scenes.’
That curiosity led her into housekeeping. Rafaela quickly found she enjoyed the mix of structure, attention to detail and leadership the role demanded. ‘I loved that there was always something to solve or improve,’ she says. As she moved up to supervisor and eventually housekeeping manager, she became increasingly aware of the environmental impact hotels have and how much waste and energy could be saved through smarter choices.
More than beds and towels
‘People think hospitality is just about accommodation and service, but it is much more dynamic and emotional,’ Rafaela says. ‘Behind the scenes, it is teamwork, problem-solving and adapting constantly. One day you might be managing a last-minute wedding booking, the next fixing laundry to meet urgent demand.’
Her approach to sustainability is hands-on and practical. Under her leadership, the Comis Hotel has made a series of impactful changes, including swapping plastic bottles for glass, using refillable dispensers for toiletries, switching to eco-friendly cleaning products, and introducing recycling and composting programmes.
‘It might seem small, but it all adds up,’ she says. ‘We are cutting waste, reducing landfill and supporting local suppliers to lower our carbon footprint. We want to create a culture where everyone feels part of the solution.’
Her work was recognised with the IoD Directors of the Year Sustainability Award in 2024, but Rafaela stresses it is about the long-term difference made, not trophies.
Inspired by real leadership
Among Rafaela’s role models is Mark Emmington, Facility Director at Comis, whose focus on integrity and high standards motivates her daily. She also draws inspiration from sustainability champions who back their words with action. ‘What I admire most are people who stick to their values, push for progress, and make a lasting difference,’ Rafaela says.
The best advice she has ever received? ‘Your attitude is more important than your skill set. In hospitality, how you approach the day, challenges, and people matters as much as what you know. Skills can be learned, but attitude and work ethic set you apart.’
Looking ahead
Rafaela’s plans are rooted in growth, both for her team and the environment. She wants to continue improving sustainability at the Comis, mentor newcomers to the industry, and push for bigger eco-friendly changes.
‘Sustainability should be normal, not a trend,’ she says. ‘And I hope more businesses on the island come together to support local causes and each other.’
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