Priyanka Saxena Ray
One of the biggest hurdles has been breaking stereotypes. There’s often an unconscious bias that women are naturally suited for roles in guest relations, front office, or marketing, while leadership and operational positions are perceived as male territory. But I also learned that when people see your hard work, they acknowledge and support you.
Another challenge is the demanding nature of the industry itself. Hospitality operates 24/7, and achieving work-life balance can sometimes feel impossible.
Despite the increasing number of women in the industry, representation in senior leadership remains an uphill battle. Boardrooms and decision-making tables still lack gender diversity, making it harder for women to have a strong voice in shaping policies and business strategies. Leadership is about vision, strategy, and resilience-qualities that transcend gender. Yet, breaking into these spaces requires persistence, and for me, it took years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to get to where I am today.
However, my journey has not been one of solitary effort. I have been incredibly fortunate to have the guidance and mentorship of industry veterans, particularly my mentor, the late Guru Chahal, who played a crucial role in making my transition into hospitality seamless.
The Evolving Role of Women in Hospitality
Leadership is not about authority alone, but about influence, knowledge, and the ability to create meaningful change. Speaking up, advocating for myself, and ensuring my voice is heard has made all the difference. Yet, I have also learned that no journey is ever truly solo. Women supporting women is a force to be reckoned with-mentorship, collaboration, and shared wisdom can accelerate growth and open doors that once seemed out of reach.
Adaptability is another invaluable lesson. The ability to pivot, embrace innovation, and stay ahead of the curve is what keeps businesses thriving. However, at the heart of leadership lies a balance-combining empathy with strategic decision-making. Understanding team dynamics, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering inclusivity are what truly build strong and successful teams.
BLURB
Women – Own your journey. Seek knowledge. Take up space. The hospitality industry is evolving, and with it, so must the opportunities for women who dare to dream, disrupt, and redefine what leadership looks like.
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