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.


AJIO LUXE Launches First Delhi NCR Store at Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj

AJIO LUXE Launches First Delhi NCR Store at Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj

By Hariharan U

Published on May 21, 2026

AJIO has launched its first-ever AJIO LUXE store in Delhi NCR at Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj, marking a major step in the brand’s offline retail expansion strategy.

The new store introduces a curated luxury and premium fashion experience, featuring a mix of international and Indian labels across fashion, footwear, accessories, and lifestyle categories. Designed as an immersive retail space, the outlet reflects the growing consumer demand for experience-led and elevated shopping formats in the Delhi NCR region.

The launch further strengthens Ambience Mall Vasant Kunj’s positioning as a key destination for premium and bridge-to-luxury retail in North India. The mall has recently expanded its portfolio with several global and high-end brands, reinforcing its appeal among aspirational and affluent shoppers.

Speaking on the launch, Arjun Gehlot highlighted that luxury retail is increasingly being driven by immersive consumer experiences, and noted that AJIO LUXE aligns with evolving shopping expectations focused on curation and engagement beyond traditional retail formats.

Over time, Ambience Mall has emerged as a leading lifestyle hub in Delhi NCR, housing a strong mix of luxury retail, fashion, dining, and entertainment offerings. Existing premium brands at the mall include The Collective, Brooks Brothers, Kapoor Watch Company, True Religion, Diesel, and Tira, among others.

With this launch, AJIO LUXE aims to bridge digital-first retail sophistication with an in-store luxury experience, targeting fashion-conscious consumers and young aspirational shoppers across the region.


Summit Hotels & Resorts Expands Presence in Arunachal Pradesh with Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang

Summit Hotels & Resorts Expands Presence in Arunachal Pradesh with Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 21, 2026

Continuing its growth across the Eastern Himalayan region, Summit Hotels & Resorts has announced the addition of Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh. Launched under The Signature Collection, the new property marks the brand’s continued focus on expanding into emerging destinations with growing tourism potential.

Nestled in the picturesque Dirang Valley and overlooking the Kameng River, the resort has been designed as a boutique mountain retreat surrounded by misty hills, layered valleys, and scenic natural landscapes. Blending local Arunachali influences with modern comforts, the property is aimed at travellers seeking peaceful and experience-driven stays.

The resort offers a range of thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, including Premium View Rooms and Junior Suites. Each accommodation comes with private balconies opening to panoramic views of the river and surrounding valley. Designed with warm interiors, soft textures, and contemporary amenities, the stay experience balances comfort with a strong sense of place.

Food experiences at the resort revolve around an all-day dining restaurant serving a mix of multi-cuisine offerings along with regional Northeast specialities. Guests can enjoy meals while taking in scenic valley views. The property also features landscaped gardens, bonfire setups, and outdoor relaxation spaces that encourage visitors to connect with nature.

Guests staying at the retreat can also take part in curated local experiences and nature-led activities. With its spacious layout and focus on privacy, the property is positioned as a peaceful escape for travellers looking beyond crowded hill destinations.

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Commenting on the addition, Sumit Mitruka, CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts, said, "Dirang is an emerging destination with immense natural appeal, and we see growing interest from travellers looking for less crowded, experience-driven locations. Our approach has been to create a property that stays true to the destination while offering the comfort and consistency that guests expect from the Summit brand."

The launch of Rungkhung Village Resort reflects Summit Hotels & Resorts continued effort to strengthen its portfolio of boutique properties across the Eastern Himalayan belt, with a focus on destination-led hospitality and experiential travel.


Okhai by Tata Chemicals Launches Contemporary Ajrakh Collection

Okhai by Tata Chemicals Launches Contemporary Ajrakh Collection

By Hariharan U

Published on May 20, 2026

Tata Chemicals’ CSR initiative Okhai has launched its latest Ajrakh collection, a contemporary reinterpretation of one of India’s oldest and most celebrated textile traditions rooted in the craft heritage of Kutch.

The collection has been developed in collaboration with artisan designer Mubin Khatri and his team from Dhamadka, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and modern design across 19 handcrafted garments. The line has been developed over eight months, focusing on blending heritage techniques with contemporary silhouettes and print innovations.

Crafted in breathable cotton and cotton twill, the collection uses natural dyes and traditional methods such as pothai, where fabrics are hand-painted using natural colours. It also experiments with reimagined block-print techniques, separating outlines and filler blocks to create more dynamic and versatile patterns.

A notable innovation in the collection is the use of Ajrakh on twill cotton denim, offering a modern interpretation of the craft while retaining its cultural identity.

Speaking about the launch, Manorath Dhillon said Ajrakh is deeply rooted in history and community, and the collection aims to evolve the craft for contemporary wardrobes while preserving its authenticity.

Sustainability remains central to the initiative, with natural fabrics, eco-friendly dyes, and reuse of existing blocks to reduce waste. Through this collection, Okhai continues its focus on preserving Indian artisan traditions while making them relevant for modern consumers.

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