Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

By Author

Published on November 6, 2023

In the heart of the hospitality industry, where warmth meets service, women are not just participants; they're trailblazers crafting remarkable experiences. Their presence is a testament to the power of inclusivity and the diverse strengths they bring to the table. Encouragement is not in short supply, and for women contemplating a venture into this vibrant sector, know this: you stand on the sturdy shoulders of giants. Here are six shining examples of success who prove that in hospitality, sisterhood thrives.

1. Isadore Sharp - Founder of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

While not a woman, Isadore Sharp's inclusion is pivotal as he championed women in leadership roles within his luxury hotel chain, setting a precedent for diversity and empowerment. Four Seasons is renowned for its exceptional service, a standard often attributed to the empathetic leadership and attention to detail that women bring to the industry.

2. Christina Ong - The Mind Behind COMO Hotels and Resorts

Christina Ong, dubbed "The Queen of Bond Street," ventured into the hospitality scene with her unique brand of luxury resorts and city hotels. Ong's establishments are more than just a place to stay; they are sanctuaries that reflect her philosophy of holistic well-being, blending culture with comfort—a space where women, especially, can flourish in leadership.

3. Katara Hospitality - A Company Elevating Women Leaders

Based in Qatar, Katara Hospitality has been a forerunner in empowering women within the Middle East, showcasing that gender diversity is key to innovative and sustainable growth. They've shattered ceilings, proving that women in hospitality are not just present but are driving progress and excellence.

4. Priya Paul - The Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels

Priya Paul is a force to be reckoned with, steering her group’s collection of boutique hotels to new heights. Under her guidance, The Park Hotels have become synonymous with contemporary luxury and cultural vibrancy. Her leadership style is a blueprint for women eyeing the hospitality summit.

5. Ritu Dalmia - Celebrated Chef and Restaurateur

Ritu Dalmia, a chef extraordinaire, adds her zest to the hospitality industry with her chain of restaurants. She has not only brought a spotlight to culinary art but also shown that the kitchen, often a male-dominated space, can be helmed excellently by women with passion and panache.

6. Niki Leondakis - Former CEO of Equinox Fitness Clubs and Hotels

Niki Leondakis has made waves with her dynamic approach to leadership in the hotel sector. With a career that has spanned various hospitality giants, she has become a role model for women who aspire to reach executive roles, proving that with tenacity, the glass ceiling is but an illusion.

These icons, among countless others, are proof that women are crafting the narrative of hospitality with every successful venture. For every woman on the cusp of stepping into hospitality, let these stories embolden you. The industry doesn't just need women; it thrives because of them. So step in, the stage is set, and the audience is eager to witness your story unfold in the splendid theater of hospitality.


On2Cook Wins German Innovation Award 2025, Putting Indian Deep-Tech on the Global Map

On2Cook Wins German Innovation Award 2025, Putting Indian Deep-Tech on the Global Map

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2025

On2Cook, an Ahmedabad-based deep-tech startup, has won the German Innovation Award 2025, a major recognition presented by the prestigious German Design Council. The award ceremony was held at Deutsche Technikmuseum in Berlin, honouring global innovations that demonstrate real-world impact and future-forward technology.

The award places On2Cook among an elite group of global innovators and highlights India’s growing presence in the deep-tech space. Unlike traditional design awards, the German Innovation Award focuses on six strict parameters: innovation, user benefit, market readiness, economic viability, technical and design quality, and sustainability. With jury members from technology, business, design, and academia, the recognition is seen as a strong industry endorsement.

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On2Cook’s patented appliance is designed for both speed and efficiency. By combining induction searing, microwave volumetric heating, and AI-powered sensor control, the appliance reduces cooking time by up to 70% and energy usage by 50%. Independent lab tests confirm that it retains nutrients better and delivers consistent flavour and texture.

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Currently used in over 50 commercial kitchens across India, the US, and the Middle East, the appliance replaces multiple machines, allowing chefs to work faster and businesses to scale more efficiently.

“This recognition is a validation of not just our patents, but our mission to make sustainable, intelligent cooking the global norm,” said Sanandan Sudhir, Inventor & CEO of On2Cook. “It shows that world-class hardware innovation can be conceived and engineered in India,” he added.

The award is timely as On2Cook prepares for its Series A funding round. It boosts the startup’s credibility with investors, European distributors, and regulatory bodies, strengthening its global expansion and export plans.

For Sanandan and Jyoti Sudhir, Co-Founders of both On2Cook and InventIndia, this win is the result of years of belief in human-centred design and purpose-driven technology. From starting the venture in Ahmedabad to receiving global recognition, their journey reflects the resilience and rising potential of Indian startups to shape global industries.


Robert Bailey Brings Savile Row Craftsmanship to Mumbai at Four Seasons Trunk Show

Robert Bailey Brings Savile Row Craftsmanship to Mumbai at Four Seasons Trunk Show

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2025

The art of British tailoring took centre stage in Mumbai as master Savile Row tailor Robert Bailey hosted an exclusive trunk show at Modernist, the private members’ club at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

On his second visit to India, Bailey brought over 40 years of bespoke tailoring expertise and showcased a curated collection of more than 3,000 luxury fabrics from renowned mills like Dormeuil, Scabal, Holland & Sherry, and Loro Piana. Held over three days, the event featured private, by-appointment consultations where clients received expert guidance on fit, fabric, and styling.

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“It’s been a pleasure returning to Mumbai,” said Robert Bailey. “The level of appreciation for true craftsmanship here is remarkable. I’ve found the clientele to be confident, curious, and style-aware—keen to express individuality through tailoring, but also deeply respectful of tradition.”

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Bailey is known for his signature approach of adapting Savile Row traditions to suit modern lifestyles, and for Mumbai’s climate, he introduced breathable fabrics, lighter canvases, and subtle adjustments in cut—while maintaining details like sculpted waists and high armholes. His clientele in the city included lawyers, entrepreneurs, and professionals who value custom tailoring with timeless appeal.

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Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, said, “It was a true pleasure to welcome Robert Bailey. At the heart of our hotel is a commitment to curating exceptional experiences. Trunk shows like these bring together artistry and elegance, offering our guests access to some of the world’s finest craftsmanship—right here in Mumbai.”

The trunk show was more than a display of tailoring excellence—it was a celebration of tradition and individual expression. Guests can look forward to future visits, as Robert Bailey plans to return to Mumbai, with appointments available through Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.


Delhi HC Dismisses Zostel Petition, Rules in Favour of OYO

Delhi HC Dismisses Zostel Petition, Rules in Favour of OYO

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 15, 2025

OYO, the global travel-tech firm, secured a legal victory as the Delhi High Court ruled in its favour by setting aside the arbitral award related to its long-standing dispute with Zostel Hospitality, the parent company of ZO Rooms. The court also dismissed Zostel’s execution petition, bringing closure to the years-long legal tussle.

The court upheld OYO’s stance that it did not breach any agreement arising from the acquisition discussions held with Zostel in 2015. The judgment emphasised that no part of Zostel’s business was ever transferred to OYO and reinforced the legal principle that a determinable contract cannot be specifically enforced, aligning with precedents from the Supreme Court of India.

The dispute dates back to November 2015, when OYO and Zostel signed a non-binding term sheet to explore a possible acquisition. However, the transaction fell through due to failed due diligence and lack of mutual agreement on key commercial terms.

Zostel had initiated arbitration in September 2018, which resulted in a March 2021 arbitral award, a decision OYO promptly challenged. The legal battle continued with OYO securing an earlier win when the court dismissed Zostel’s injunction application in February 2022.

The Delhi HC's latest ruling affirms that no definitive agreement was ever finalised and that essential terms remained unsettled.

OYO, responding to the outcome, reiterated its commitment to technological innovation and operational excellence, continuing its mission to deliver quality accommodation experiences for customers worldwide.

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