On August 31, 2024, the Similan Ballroom at SAii Laguna Phuket will be the epicentre of a groundbreaking event that promotes gender equality and diversity in the hospitality industry. Hosted by the Phuket Hotels Association in collaboration with C9 Hotelworks, the second annual “Mind the Gap: Women & Diversity in Hospitality” conference promises an inspiring and impactful experience for all attendees.
An Event with a Purpose
Phuket Hotels Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to shaping a positive future for Phuket, and C9 Hotelworks, a renowned hospitality consultancy, are steadfast in their commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. This half-day conference will bring together industry leaders, professionals, and aspiring individuals to address critical issues facing women in the workplace.
Inspiring Keynote Speakers
Anchalika Kijkanakorn, Founder and Managing Director of Akaryn Hospitality Management Services, an award-winning boutique hotel management company, will headline the event. She will share her journey and insights on the opportunities and challenges of being a woman leader in the hospitality industry.
“I am delighted to be part of Mind the Gap, which is such an important summit for women in our industry. There are so many highly successful women in hospitality who are breaking down boundaries and making a positive difference. I look forward to meeting many more inspirational leaders and up-and-coming stars, exchanging ideas and sharing our stories in Phuket on 31 August,” said Anchalika.
Diverse and Insightful Sessions
The conference will feature compelling talks and workshops designed to challenge conventional thinking and provide practical solutions. Notable speakers include:
- Christina Ho, airline pilot and TEDx speaker, discussing “Diversity and Inclusion is Important Today”.
- Kirsten Fletcher, Australian Consul-General in Phuket, addressing “Managing Success at Work and with a Family”.
- Nikki Phinyapincha, Founder of TransTalent Consulting Group, on the unique challenges of being “LBGTQ+ in the Hospitality Workplace”.
- Max Simpson, Founder & CEO of Steps, on “Leading the Way for Neurodiverse Employment”.
- Patteera Maneesri, Vice President of HR and Brand Culture at S Hotels & Resorts reveals “The Power of Inspiration.”
- Naureen Ahmed, Founder of Inspiring Women in Hospitality, highlighting “Networking and Building Meaningful Connections”.
- David Boucher of Bumrungrad International Hospital Phuket and Paul Hawco of Banyan Wellness Academy, focusing on “Understanding Mental Health and Wellbeing”.
Panel Discussions and Workshops
An insightful panel discussion will feature three successful female restaurant industry leaders, moderated by Emma Gray, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development of Delivering Asia Communications. Papungkron Numprasit, F&B Instructor and supervisor in the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge at Dusit Thani College will also lead a short course on embedding DEI (Diversity, Inclusion, Equity) training in hospitality.
A Legacy of Change
“The inaugural edition of Mind the Gap in 2022 was attended by over 100 delegates, showing the event’s significant impact on women and men alike. By addressing the critical issues facing women in hospitality, we can provide essential insights into overcoming gender-specific challenges, improving mindfulness, achieving work-life balance, and building rewarding careers. We look forward to welcoming even more guests this year,” said Jayne MacDougall, Executive Director, Phuket Hotels Association.
Commitment to Equality
“Hospitality has always been an industry where women play a vital role. Sadly, it is a worrying fact that women still face challenges in the workplace and that men still command the majority of senior leadership positions. By continuing to raise these important issues, we want to keep the conversation flowing and empower the next generation of women in hospitality to create a bright future for the entire industry,” commented Viona Zhang, Deputy Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks.
Event Details
The “Mind the Gap: Women & Diversity in Hospitality” conference will occur on Saturday, August 31, 2024, from 13:30 to 17:00 hrs. The event is priced at THB 500 (payable at the door) and THB 100 for students, with all proceeds donated to the Phuket Hotels Association’s training fund. Advanced registration is required. To book your place, visit Eventbrite.
For more information about the Phuket Hotels Association, call +66 (0) 8 9645 2576, email info@phukethotelsassociation.com, or visit Phuket Hotels Association.
Written by: Kanda Limw
