When I was just a kid, going to AAHOA Town Halls, I had several mentors. I really looked up to them, and many of my mentors are the ones who pushed me to get involved in AAHOA.
Growing up, my parents weren’t fluent in English, and they didn’t have the skill set to manage a branded property. They didn’t have AAHOA as a support system like I did.
When people ask what AAHOA has done for me, I believe AAHOA’s biggest asset aside from the membership base is the education and advocacy efforts we offer.
I took advantage of that education and legislative advocacy and used what I learned to help my parents. I taught myself how to do things in a franchise hotel. AAHOA helped me when it came to day-to-day things that I was supposed to do at the hotel. Going to the Town Halls and becoming an AAHOA Ambassador motivated me to become even more involved.
Now, I’m living proof that through education, legislative advocacy, and political giving, AAHOA Members can become civic leaders on behalf of small businesses in the United States.
I served as an Ambassador. Years later, I served as a Young Professional Director. Then, I ran for the Secretary seat on the board. Now, as Chairman, looking back on all I had to overcome and learn as an immigrant in the hospitality industry makes me proud. Together, we’ve accomplished so much, and we’re now paying it forward. AAHOA leadership uses its platform and influence to help the generations to come.
Let’s be honest, small business owners and hoteliers don’t have the time, energy, or bandwidth to monitor new standards, political developments, or policies that would affect us at the local, state, or federal levels.
That’s where AAHOA comes in. AAHOA Members are hard-working entrepreneurs who are living the American Dream. We’re busy running and building a strong hotel business and looking out for our bottom line. AAHOA’s advocacy team is hard at work helping to influence and impact government decisions that will ultimately influence and shape the success of the hospitality industry.
Building relationships, educating ourselves on, and monitoring issues that directly affect our members and the hospitality industry at large ensure that hoteliers remain up to date and well-informed. AAHOA is here to make your lives easier. We’re here to do the heavy lifting.
So, just like my mentors who encouraged me and pushed me to get involved in AAHOA, I urge you to do the same. Think of AAHOA as your mentor, your support system. AAHOA is here to help you build a stronger foundation for your children, your children’s children, and the generations to come.
This month is special for many here in the U.S. and all over the world who will celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair. After the dark days of the pandemic, the industry is recovering and brightening. Diwali is a special time to gather with family and friends to reflect on the past and spread positivity and light for the future. From my family to yours, I wish you a happy, fun, and beautiful Diwali!
