Last weekend, Internova CEO J.D. O’Hara and Telesa Via spoke to groups of minority students to highlight the benefits of a career in the travel industry. O’Hara discussed the earning potential within travel advising, while Via shared her journey from a sales position at a Hyatt property to leading sales for IHG Hotels & Resorts. These presentations aimed to generate interest among young people in pursuing careers in travel.
Two separate events were organized to engage students at different educational levels. The Internova gathering, in partnership with I Am Cultured, focused on providing under-resourced high school students with essential life skills. Practical workshops on resume writing and networking were conducted, along with panels featuring successful Black executives in various industries. The event also included a job fair with representatives from top travel companies like Delta, Disney, and Hyatt.
On the other hand, Delaware State University (DSU), a historically Black school, hosted a hospitality takeover event to attract students to hospitality majors. Participating companies such as Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott set up job fairs to showcase opportunities within the travel industry. DSU is also introducing a travel advisor track in partnership with industry professionals to provide students with specialized training.
The Alliance for Hospitality Equity & Diversity is spearheading a series of events at historically Black colleges and universities with hospitality programs. Led by Brian Barker from NYU’s Tisch Center of Hospitality, the alliance aims to increase diversity within the travel industry. Representatives from major hotel chains like Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott are actively involved in promoting diversity and equity.
The engagement of industry professionals like Via, O’Hara, and Barker with students from various academic backgrounds has sparked interest in travel-related careers. By participating in events that highlight the opportunities within the industry, students are more likely to consider pursuing a career in travel. The diverse representation of successful executives and companies at these events serves as a testament to the industry’s commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
The efforts to increase diversity in the travel industry through targeted initiatives at educational institutions play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of travel professionals. By providing students with the exposure and resources needed to explore careers in travel, the industry can create a more inclusive and dynamic workforce. With continued support and collaboration from industry leaders, the future of travel looks brighter and more diverse than ever before.
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