As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, the theme ‘Give to Gain‘ resonates deeply with me and the mission of Indian Women in Hospitality (IWH). This powerful theme underscores the transformative impact of investing in women, highlighting the multiplier effect it has on society as a whole. I have heard about the power of giving from my grandmom who always told us giving selflessly gave us the power to express gratitude to the almighty and so did my mother and mother in law. I have learnt so much from these incredible women in my life and this year’s theme connects a special chord with me revisiting the lessons I learnt.
At IWH, we believe that empowering women is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic one. By providing resources, mentorship, and advocacy, we can unlock the full potential of women in the hospitality industry, driving growth, innovation, and inclusivity.
As the founder of IWH, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that supportive networks can have on women’s careers. I’ve witnessed women transform from hesitant participants to confident leaders, inspiring others along the way. Take Ms. Priya Paul, Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, for example. Her journey is a shining example of the power of determination and resilience. When she took the helm, she faced numerous challenges, but her passion for hospitality and commitment to excellence propelled her forward. Today, she’s a beacon of inspiration for women in the industry, proving that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. We salute women like her and take inspiration from their journeys.
The hospitality industry has a unique opportunity to lead the way in promoting gender equality. With women comprising a significant portion of the workforce, it’s essential that we create an environment that supports their growth and development. This includes addressing the gender pay gap, providing opportunities for career advancement, and creating a culture of diversity and inclusion. As we break down barriers, we pave the way for future generations of women to thrive.
One of the most significant barriers to women’s advancement is the lack of access to mentorship and networking opportunities. At IWH, we’re working to bridge this gap by providing a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Our events and workshops have been instrumental in helping women navigate their careers and build meaningful relationships. We’ve seen women from diverse backgrounds come together, share their stories, and find common ground. These connections have led to job opportunities, partnerships, and lifelong friendships.
As Melinda Gates aptly puts it, “When we invest in women and girls, we are investing in the people who are going to lift up our families, our communities and our countries” (Source: Gates Foundation). This quote encapsulates the essence of the ‘Give to Gain’ theme, highlighting the importance of investing in women for a brighter future.
The ‘Give to Gain’ theme also highlights the importance of collaboration and collective action. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society, where women have the opportunity to grow and excel. As I’ve often said, investing in women is like investing in the future – it’s a gift that keeps on giving. When we empower women, we empower families, communities and entire nations.
As we move forward, IWH remains committed to amplifying the voices of women in hospitality, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, mentorship, and collaboration. We invite you to join us on this journey, to give and gain, and to be part of a movement that helps shape the future of the industry.
Ways to Get Involved with women’s communities:
Let’s work together to create a brighter future for women in hospitality, where everyone has the opportunity to grow.
A word to myself:
I’ve found my stride, walking my path,
At my own tempo, crafting my space.
No need to rush, no need to compete,
I let others pass, no anxiety to greet.
No more comparisons, no more FOMO’s sway,
I’m learning to just be, in my own way.
I savor the journey, not just the end,
Observing, listening, my heart and soul to mend.
I cherish connections, no judgments made,
No choices to fret, just being me, unafraid.
In stillness, I find peace, a sense of ease,
Not defined by others, I am, wild and free.
If someone overlooks me, that’s okay,
I’m still me, present, in every way.
If I’m needed, they’ll find me, no doubt,
If not, I’ll stay here, with myself, without a shout.
PS: Pictures are taken from Google with due credits
