AAHOA hosts second HYPE conference in Mexico City

AAHOA’s 2nd HYPE Conference in Mexico City: Elevating Hospitality Excellence & Networking Opportunities

AAHOA HOSTED ITS second annual “HYPE – Helping Young Professionals Evolve” conference in Mexico City on Feb. 6 to 7, marking its first international event. Ritesh Agarwal, founder and Group CEO of OYO, and Rahul Patel, managing partner at Patel Gaines, PLLC, were the keynote speakers, addressing around 240 participants.

The conference featured panel discussions on leadership, capital access strategies, multifamily housing opportunities, emerging technologies and insights for independent properties in competitive markets, AAHOA said in a statement.

"The energy at the second annual HYPE Conference was incredible. Bringing together over 200 young professionals in Mexico City to connect, learn, and grow is exactly what AAHOA is all about," said Miraj Patel, AAHOA chairman. "Investing in the next generation of hoteliers is essential to the future of our industry. I want to thank Dylan Patel, AAHOA Young Professional Director Eastern Division, and Tanmay Patel, AAHOA Young Professional Director Western Division, for their dedication in planning this event."

Agarwal shared insights on "From Startup to Global Impact: A CEO's Journey as a Young Professional," emphasizing perseverance: "When the world expects you to fail, you give everything to succeed." His firm, OYO, recently announced a $10 million investment to enhance G6 Hospitality’s digital assets, including its website and app, aiming for a fourfold increase in app users before summer.

Rahul Patel encouraged bold self-advocacy.

"You’ve got to be your biggest advocate. Whatever you're doing, tell people about it. Step outside the box—you’ve got to be different," he said.

AAHOA President and CEO Laura Lee Blake announced the launch of a Tech Task Force, led by young professionals, to explore and implement innovative technologies in hospitality.

"HYPE is more than just a conference—it is a launchpad for young professionals to build networks, gain industry insights, and advance their careers," said Blake. "With the new Tech Task Force, we are empowering the next generation to shape the future of hospitality through technology and innovation."

In February 2024, the "HYPE Ownership" conference in New Orleans attracted around 200 members, focusing on the growth of new hospitality professionals.