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.


Ambience Mall Gurugram Elevates Luxury Home Décor with OMA’s Largest Store in NCR

Ambience Mall Gurugram Elevates Luxury Home Décor with OMA’s Largest Store in NCR

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 17, 2025

Ambience Mall Gurugram has elevated its luxury home décor offerings with the opening of OMA’s first-ever store in the city. Spread across an impressive 10,615 sq. ft., the new outlet is OMA’s largest retail destination in Delhi-NCR and has been designed as a walk-through luxury home that brings together timeless design, global influences and everyday elegance.

The new store marks a significant step in OMA’s journey to bring elevated living closer to modern Indian homes. With a strong focus on craftsmanship, refined detailing and immersive retail experiences, the brand chose Gurugram as a natural destination, given the city’s growing base of design-forward consumers and premium residential developments.

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Moving beyond traditional retail formats, the OMA store has been thoughtfully designed as an inspirational space. Customers can explore distinct zones dedicated to décor, tabletop, bedding, bath, fragrances and home styling accents. Each section is curated to create a visual narrative that highlights craftsmanship, emotion and the art of gifting.

Commenting on the launch, Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group, said, “Our vision at Ambience Mall has always been to bring meaningful, design-led experiences to our visitors, and OMA's entry perfectly aligns with that philosophy. As the largest store in Delhi-NCR, it adds a refreshing, elevated dimension to our premium retail mix by blending craftsmanship, storytelling, and everyday luxury. We believe this opening will resonate deeply with homeowners, design enthusiasts, and gifting customers. It strengthens our mission to curate destinations where global aesthetics meet the aspirations of modern Indian consumers.”

With OMA’s arrival, Ambience Mall Gurugram further strengthens its position as a destination for premium and design-led brands. As the city continues to evolve into a hub for aspirational consumers, the mall remains focused on offering world-class retail, distinctive experiences and a well-rounded environment where fashion, lifestyle, dining and elevated home styling come together seamlessly.


Jockey Strengthens Youth Fashion Play with New JKY Groove™ Winter Drop

Jockey Strengthens Youth Fashion Play with New JKY Groove™ Winter Drop

By Hariharan U

Published on December 16, 2025

Jockey India, operated by Page Industries Ltd, has launched the latest winter drop of its athleisure line JKY Groove™, continuing its push to strengthen connect with Gen Z consumers across India. The new collection blends everyday comfort with fresh seasonal tones and relaxed silhouettes that mirror the easygoing style of today’s youth.

Designed for the winter season, the latest drop features a curated range of modern essentials for both men and women. The collection includes oversized T-shirts, hybrid sweatshirts, wide-leg pants, and utility-inspired pieces, all crafted using comfort-focused fabrics and functional design details.imageThe new range reflects how athleisure has become a key part of youth culture, shaped by relaxed dressing, streetwear influences, and the growing preference for versatile, functional clothing. For Gen Z, fashion is not just about comfort but also self-expression, a shift that JKY Groove™ aims to address through trend-right colours and contemporary silhouettes.

Speaking on the launch, Nihal Rajan, Chief Marketing Officer, Jockey India, said, JKY Groove™ has quickly become one of our strongest youth propositions, and this drop builds on that momentum. We’re sharpening silhouettes, refreshing the colour palette, and focusing on functionality to match how young consumers style themselves across college, work, travel, and social settings.”

The latest JKY Groove™ collection is now available at select Jockey Exclusive Brand Outlets, leading online marketplaces, and on www.jockey.in, with a focused rollout across major metro cities. Supporting the launch is a youth-centric, multi-platform campaign featuring an energetic brand film, strong digital storytelling, and immersive in-store experiences aimed at spotlighting the collection’s blend of comfort, versatility, and modern style.


Malabar Gold & Diamonds Hosts 15th Edition of Brides of India Showcase in New Delhi

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Hosts 15th Edition of Brides of India Showcase in New Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 16, 2025

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s leading and most trusted jewellery brands, hosted a special edition of its flagship Brides of India campaign at its South Extension Part 2 showroom in New Delhi. The showcase celebrated the wide range of bridal styles and traditions that shape weddings in Delhi and across India.

Now in its 15th year, Brides of India has grown into one of the country’s most recognised bridal jewellery platforms. The campaign honours how every bride carries her rituals, memories and identity into the jewellery she chooses for her wedding. The current national edition features 22 brides from across India along with 10 well-known film personalities, reflecting the cultural diversity and emotional depth that the initiative represents.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Thanseer K K, Showroom Head, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, South Extension Part 2, New Delhi, said, “South Extension Part 2 has always been a starting point for many Delhi families when they plan wedding jewellery. We meet brides who want classic heirloom pieces for traditional ceremonies, lighter designs for destination functions and contemporary sets for receptions, often in a single visit. With the 15th edition of Brides of India coming to our showroom, we created a focused experience around this reality. Our aim is to help every bride and her family find jewellery that respects their customs, sits comfortably through long celebrations and matches the way they have always imagined themselves on their wedding day.”

The event was graced by Ms. Arpanaa Agarwal, Luxury Consultant and Brand Strategist, Founder of Wonder Women Connect, President of Wonder Women Elite Club, India Chairperson – Business Networking, All Ladies League, and Director at Magneto Cleantech, as the Chief Guest. She interacted with guests, brides-to-be and couples, and joined the celebrations that highlighted the importance of jewellery in expressing identity, confidence and personal style during weddings.

The campaign came alive through a thoughtfully curated in-store experience. Select models and customers walked the ramp wearing Malabar’s bridal creations, showcasing complete looks for different wedding functions. An in-store photoshoot with brides-to-be and recently married couples from New Delhi captured how real families plan and build their bridal trousseau with the brand. The atmosphere blended the energy of a fashion showcase with the warmth of an authentic wedding shopping experience.

During the showcase, the South Extension Part 2 showroom presented an extensive range of bridal jewellery, including classic North Indian designs, regional inspirations from across the country and modern silhouettes suited for cross-cultural weddings. Guests explored necklaces, chokers, long necklaces, bangles, bridal earrings, mangalsutras and rings, all crafted with a strong focus on purity, finish and wearability, keeping in mind the multiple events of a contemporary wedding.

With the successful completion of the Brides of India showcase in New Delhi, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has further strengthened its connection with bridal shoppers in the capital who seek jewellery that blends cultural authenticity, thoughtful design and the assurance of a trusted brand.

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