The BITAC Purchasing & Design East, which took place from July 9-11 at Omni Amelia Island in Fernandina Beach, Florida, gathered the Who's Who in the world of design, construction, and furnishing, to discuss innovative solutions and elevate the industry. 

Joining the event, AAHOA Central Midwest Regional Director Arti Patel, Women Hoteliers Director Eastern Division Purnima Patel, Womens Hoteliers Director Western Division Tejal Patel, former Women Hoteliers Director, and AAHOA Lifetime Member Mayuri Patel took part in the panel titled, “Natural Progression: Women Hoteliers Help Drive Home Industry’s Diversity Efforts.” The panel allowed them to shed light on how the representation of women at the highest levels of hospitality leadership has evolved over the years. Lina Patel, Director of Strategic Franchise Initiatives at Red Roof Inns and former Women Hoteliers Director Eastern Division (2017-2023) moderated the 30-minute session. 

Lina Patel mentioned that all the major hotel brands now have diversity programs geared toward women and minorities that will provide resources and funding for aspiring hotel owners. One of the programs mentioned was HerOwnership, an AAHOA program launched by Lina and Tejal Patel last year. Tejal said the program means the world to her as she takes a leadership role in championing women in the industry.

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