AHLA Foundation's FORWARD/26 Event Highlights Women's Leadership in Hospitality
The AHLA Foundation recently hosted its annual leadership event, FORWARD/26, in Atlanta, focusing on the influence of women in the hotel and lodging industry. The event, held at the Signia by Hilton, attracted hospitality professionals nationwide, emphasizing leadership development and inclusivity. Despite women comprising a significant portion of the hotel workforce, they remain underrepresented in executive roles. FORWARD/26 aimed to address this disparity by providing mentorship, education, and community support to empower women leaders. The event featured over 50 speakers, including industry executives and notable figures from adjacent sectors, such as Bobbi Brown and Tiera Kennedy. Key sessions included panels on leadership and influence, negotiation strategies for women, and discussions on hotel ownership by women leaders. The event also offered a Community Hub for networking and skill development, reinforcing the theme of influence. 
