AAHOA holds 3rd annual HerOwnership conference in California

AAHOA's THIRD ANNUAL 2024 HerOwnership Conference, held in Redondo Beach, California on Sept. 12 to 13, brought together 300 women hoteliers to discuss executive presence, hotel ownership, and mental health. The two-day event encouraged attendees to connect, lead and succeed in an industry where their leadership is essential.

"The hospitality industry stands out because women comprise most of the workforce," said Miraj Patel, AAHOA’s chairman. "They are not only the backbone of our families but also our industry and association. Women make up about 40 percent of our membership today—a significant and growing presence shaping our organization's future. As we celebrate our 35th anniversary and reflect on our growth, we see how women members have been crucial to our association's development and success."

Keynote speakers included:

• Neeti Dewan, author, speaker, and CEO, who spoke on "Mindset Makeover: Personal and Business Growth Strategies of Top Women Hoteliers."
• Raji Brar, co-founder of the Bakersfield Sikh Women's Association and COO of Countryside, who spoke on "Building Bridges: The Power of Women in Political Engagement."

"Women in hospitality are making a significant impact, and nowhere is that more evident than at HerOwnership," said Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA's president and CEO. "Their leadership and vision are ushering in a new era for the industry. These women provide exceptional service, make meaningful community contributions, expand their portfolios, and shatter barriers."

The event featured breakout sessions on the conference's core pillars and two pre-conference masterclasses, including one by Kalibri Labs on commercial strategy and another by Gauthier Murphy & Houghtaling on insurance essentials, AAHOA said in a statement. The Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina team hosted the event.

"The energy and unity of women hoteliers from across the country were truly inspiring," said Shetal Zina Patel, AAHOA’s director of women hoteliers in the western division. "HerOwnership is not just about breaking barriers; it's about creating lasting change—ensuring that future generations of women in our industry are equipped to lead with confidence."

AAHOA is planning regional HerOwnership events across the U.S. to build on the conference's momentum and continue empowering women in hospitality, the statement said.

"Being surrounded by remarkable women in hospitality, all eager to learn and support each other, is truly empowering," said Purnima Patel, Women Hoteliers Director, Eastern Division. "The HerOwnership Conference is not just an event but a movement. We're creating spaces for women to thrive, grow, and own their success."

The Los Angeles City Council recently declared Sept. 4 as "AAHOA Day" to recognize members' contributions as entrepreneurs, job creators, and community contributors in the Greater Los Angeles Area.