Elva Rabelo Guerrero, the protocol and visitor services manager at the Las Tunas Provincial Directorate of Culture, occupies one of those vital positions in the cultural machinery that, due to their discreet nature, often operate behind the scenes.
She doesn't just manage schedules and unforeseen events; she is the guardian of the human experience, ensuring that every artist and creator, whether local or from elsewhere, finds a home and unconditional support in the province.
Elva emphasizes that her work demands exhaustive and constant dedication, and always being one step ahead.
“The work of a protocol officer carries a great responsibility, and I must emphasize that. Attending to our artists from Las Tunas and the rest of the country requires extensive and varied preparation,” she explains.
“If there’s an event, it’s not enough to know the dates; I have to be familiar with the entire program, the content, the participants, because I receive all the questions, from the exact schedule to the logistics and the content of the activities. I’m the focal point, and that requires me to be completely up-to-date and ready to resolve any issues.”
Thus, her work encompasses everything from the logistics of transportation and accommodation to managing any personal needs that may arise, serving as a human bridge between the artist and the institution.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
“It’s the immense opportunity to showcase the warmth of Las Tunas. It’s a privilege to be the face that represents our values, our profound cordiality. We want the artist, the writer, the creator not only to fulfill their commitments, but also to know that the province sincerely appreciates their work and contribution,” she affirms. The ultimate goal is simple, yet powerful: “That they feel comfortable, well cared for, and, above all, deeply appreciated by this land.”
For her, this quality of service is a decisive factor. “It’s fundamental. It directly influences the success of a cultural event because a relaxed, well-supported artist can fully concentrate on their work. And more importantly, the quality of the protocol becomes the most vivid impression they take away from our city, a love letter and expression of hospitality that travels with them.”
Conversely, what is the biggest challenge or the most complex situation she has had to resolve?
“The biggest challenge today is, without a doubt, putting on an event and fully complying with the program under the current circumstances,” she acknowledges earnestly.
The specialist is referring to the daily limitations that demand extra planning effort. “Transportation restrictions and, sometimes, power outages force us into a different dynamic, one that leaves no room for error.”
This requires “being incredibly agile at every moment and prepared to react to any likely situation.” Thus, resilience and the ability to improvise become tools as important as the official schedule.
Any particular anecdotes from dealing with these unforeseen events?
“What often happens with protocol is that critical situations are resolved so quickly and discreetly that the public rarely finds out. It's a kind of 'silent magic.' However, the commitment is the best anecdote.
“It's the constant search for a quick solution, whether it's getting medication after hours, adjusting a special diet at the last minute, or ensuring the artist's transportation when a vehicle breaks down. That's what protocol is: promising 100 percent success and delivering, no matter how many unforeseen obstacles arise along the way,” she emphasizes.
