World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards ('WSTHA') Reveals Nominees and Opens Voting of Inaugural Programme

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards ('WSTHA') Reveals Nominees and Opens Voting of Inaugural Programme

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 20, 2024

The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA) has unveiled the nominees and opened voting for its inaugural programme. The shortlist features a diverse range of individuals and organizations from around the world who are making significant contributions to net positive tourism.

WSTHA received hundreds of entries, which were evaluated by Sustainable Business students from Nova Business School. The shortlist was then reviewed and approved by the WSTHA Advisory Board. Selection criteria included quantitative and qualitative data, internationally-recognized standards, scalability, partnership and collaboration, relative impact, and compelling storytelling.

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Voting is open until August 2, allowing industry professionals, media, and the general public to vote for the nominees they believe are making the most impactful contributions to sustainable travel. The nominee with the most votes in each category will be declared the winner.

The 21 WSTHA categories were selected by the Advisory Board to align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a net positive framework encompassing People, Planet, Place, Prosperity, and Partnerships. The full list of 2024 nominees can be viewed online.

The winners will be announced at the inaugural WSTHA Gala Ceremony in Belize, the Official Host Destination, on September 27.

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Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of WSTHA, remarked, "We have been overwhelmed by the interest in the inaugural WSTHA programme. The calibre of entrants is exceptional, with many fascinating stories of how they are driving change in sustainable tourism. This serves as a healthy indicator of the momentum towards creating a net positive travel industry. I wish all our nominees the best of luck. And remember to cast your vote for your favourites."

Belize, the Official Host Destination, places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and has developed projects that encourage sustainable engagement with its rainforests, reefs, and unique culture.

Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Belize, stated, "We are incredibly excited to host the inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards here in Belize. The innovative level of nominees demonstrates a shared vision for a more sustainable future in travel. We look forward to welcoming all nominees and congratulating the winners while showcasing Belize's own sustainable tourism initiatives."

The WSTHA programme is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose members represent over 50,000 hotels, 7 million rooms globally, 270 brands, and 40+ supply chain and strategic partners.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said, "At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are thrilled to witness so many deserving and inspiring entries. I encourage everyone to vote and recognize these extraordinary efforts. Some of these remarkable nominees will have the honour of being named inaugural WSTHA winners. Good luck to all."

WSTHA is the sister event of the World Travel Awards, currently celebrating its 31st anniversary.


Adelaide Quinn Appointed Assistant Director of F&B at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

Adelaide Quinn Appointed Assistant Director of F&B at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 29, 2025

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has announced the appointment of Adelaide Quinn as the new Assistant Director of Food & Beverage. With over ten years of experience in luxury hospitality and a proven track record at the hotel, Adelaide steps into her new role with a vision to enhance and elevate the property’s celebrated dining experiences.

Adelaide has been an integral part of the hotel’s F&B team since 2013. In her previous role as Director of Restaurants and Bars, she successfully led operations across three key outlets, in-room dining, and the poolside service. Her leadership played a crucial role in the relaunch of AER—Mumbai’s iconic rooftop bar—and the opening of Opus, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant.

She also curated and executed three editions of the World Gourmet Festival, bringing globally acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs to the city and positioning the hotel as a culinary destination.

In her new position, Adelaide will continue to lead the food and beverage strategy across the hotel, working in close collaboration with the culinary and service teams to push the boundaries of innovation and guest satisfaction.

“Adelaide’s dedication, vision, and deep understanding of our food and beverage ethos makes her an ideal leader for this next chapter. We are confident that her continued leadership will further strengthen our reputation for excellence,” said Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

With this appointment, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai reaffirms its commitment to offering world-class culinary experiences that celebrate creativity, quality, and impeccable service at every touchpoint.


Alila Fort Bishangarh Appoints Chef Pankaj Kumar as Executive Chef

Alila Fort Bishangarh Appoints Chef Pankaj Kumar as Executive Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 29, 2025

Alila Fort Bishangarh proudly announces the appointment of Chef Pankaj Kumar as its new Executive Chef, further enriching its culinary journey with expertise and passion rooted in both tradition and innovation.

Hailing from Dehradun, Chef Pankaj brings with him over 14 years of experience across some of India’s finest luxury hospitality brands, including ITC, Taj, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Marriott, and Hyatt. Prior to joining Alila Fort Bishangarh, he served as the Executive Chef at Alila Diwa Goa, where his food philosophy and leadership earned high acclaim.

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Chef Pankaj is not only celebrated for his culinary finesse but also for his grounded personality and diverse interests. A passionate biker and photographer, he embraces life's simple joys, with a personal mantra "Miles to go before I sleep" reflecting his endless drive for excellence and creativity.

“I am honored to continue my journey with Brand Alila, especially at a place as iconic as this 235-year-old warrior fort,” said Chef Pankaj Kumar. “I look forward to creating soulful culinary experiences rooted in local flavors and global inspirations.”

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With his appointment, Alila Fort Bishangarh promises a renewed focus on authentic, regionally inspired cuisine, paired with Chef Pankaj’s signature touch of warmth and innovation.


Regency College Marks 31st Annual Awards with Industry Icons and Celebratory Honors

Regency College Marks 31st Annual Awards with Industry Icons and Celebratory Honors

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

Regency College of Culinary Arts & Hotel Management, one of India's premier hospitality institutions, celebrated its 31st Regency Annual Awards Ceremony on 24th May 2025 at the T-Hub Auditorium with grandeur and pride. The event was a spirited blend of celebration, recognition, and inspiration from some of the most esteemed names in the industry.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was the legendary Chef Manjit Singh Gill, President of the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA). He was joined by distinguished Guests of Honor—Chef Vijaya Baskaran (General Secretary, IFCA), Mr. Eleazer Prakash (General Manager – Fairfield by Marriott), and Mr. Kumar Manish (Vice President – Royal Orchid Hotels). Together, they brought immense energy and pride to the celebration.

The event opened with a warm welcome by Ms. Uma Bala, Head of Department, followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries. Principal Mr. P. Ramesh Kumar Reddy presented the Annual Report, spotlighting the college’s ongoing innovations, academic accomplishments, and contributions to the hospitality sector.

Honoring Excellence: Regency Leadership Awards 2024–25

One of the major highlights was the Regency Leadership Awards, designed to honor individuals for their lasting impact on the hospitality industry.

Lifetime Achievement Award:
Chef Manjit Singh Gill was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to Indian culinary arts and his efforts in shaping the future of the hospitality landscape. In his keynote address, he urged students to embrace culinary sustainability and cultural preservation while becoming responsible global professionals.

Grand Regent Award (For Hotel Managers and Area Directors):

  • Mr. Eleazer Prakash – GM, Fairfield by Marriott

  • Chef Vijaya Baskaran – General Secretary, IFCA

  • Chef Madhusudan Gupta – Treasurer, IFCA

  • Chef Sudhir Sibal – Executive Board Member, IFCA

  • Chef Nimish Bhatia – Indian Cuisine Project Lead, IFCA

  • Chef Amey Marathe – Vice President, TCA / Board of Adviser, IFCA

Elite Regent Award (For Department Heads & HR Excellence):

  • Mr. B. Hema Kumar – Head, HR, ITC Kakatiya

  • Mr. Arunit Banerjee – Head, HR, ITC Kohenur

  • Mr. Himanshu Barola – Strategic Adviser, IFCA

  • Chef Reetika Gill – Founder, Eco Green

  • Chef Sathiyaseelan – Sr. Zonal Manager, VRB Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd.

Star Regent Award (Outstanding Alumni Recognition):

  • Mr. Kumar Manish – Vice President, Royal Orchid Hotels

  • Mr. Syed Azhar Ullah – EAM, Lemon Tree Banjara Hills

  • Mr. Y. Abhilash – Director, Ancient Stone Flames

  • Mr. Ashok Manga – Executive Chef, Fairfield by Marriott

Student Achievements and Magazine Launch

Chairman Md. Fathe Khaleq commended the institution for building a rich legacy and continuing to inspire young professionals. The release of the college’s annual magazine ECHO, commemorating 31 years of excellence, was met with applause and appreciation.

Students were also awarded for excellence in various categories including merit, Industrial Exposure Training, hospitality skills, culinary arts, mixology, flower arrangement, and national-level competitions. Medals and certificates recognized their dedication and consistent performance.

In his concluding remarks, Principal Reddy emphasized the role of modern training methods and AI integration in transforming hospitality education. He proudly noted Regency’s impressive 98% placement rate and affirmed the college’s mission to stay future-ready.

“As hospitality evolves rapidly with digital and global influences, Regency remains committed to equipping students with the skills and mindset to lead and thrive in this exciting industry,” he said.

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