Empowering Tomorrow’s Hoteliers: AAHOA’s HYPE Conference Goes Global

The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) recently hosted its second annual Helping Young Professionals Evolve (HYPE) Conference on February 6 and 7, 2025, in Mexico City. This event marked a significant milestone as AAHOA’s first international conference, aiming to inspire and connect the next generation of hospitality leaders.

A Historic Gathering in Mexico City

Approximately 240 young professionals gathered at the Andaz Hotel in Mexico City for the two-day event. The conference featured a series of panel discussions and keynote speeches focusing on various aspects of the hospitality industry. Topics ranged from leadership and capital access strategies to multifamily housing opportunities and the integration of emerging technologies.

Leadership and Vision

AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel, the youngest chairman in the association’s history, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. “The energy at the second annual HYPE Conference was incredible. Bringing together over 200 young professionals in Mexico City to connect, learn, and grow is exactly what AAHOA is all about,” Patel stated. He emphasized the importance of investing in future hoteliers, noting that it is essential for the industry’s continued success.

Insights from Industry Pioneers

The conference featured keynote addresses from prominent figures in the hospitality sector. Ritesh Agarwal, founder and Group CEO of OYO, shared his journey in a session titled “From Startup to Global Impact: A CEO’s Journey as a Young Professional.” He highlighted the significance of resilience, stating, “When the world expects you to fail, you put in everything to be successful.”

Rahul B. Patel, managing partner at Patel Gaines, PLLC, encouraged attendees to advocate for themselves and embrace innovation. “You have got to be your biggest advocate, so whatever you’re doing—you’ve got to tell people about it. You have got to go outside the box—you have got to be different,” Patel advised.

Introducing the Tech Task Force

A notable highlight of the conference was the announcement by AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake regarding the formation of a new Tech Task Force. This initiative, led by young professionals, aims to explore and implement innovative technologies within the hospitality industry. Blake emphasized the role of the task force in shaping the future of the sector, stating, “With the launch of our new Tech Task Force, we are empowering the next generation to lead the way in shaping the future of hospitality through technology and innovation.”

Building on Momentum

The success of the Mexico City conference builds upon the inaugural HYPE Ownership Conference held in New Orleans in February 2024, which attracted around 200 members. As AAHOA continues to expand its initiatives, the focus remains on providing platforms for young professionals to network, gain industry insights, and advance their careers.

As the HYPE Conference concluded, attendees were encouraged to maintain the momentum and look forward to future events, including AAHOACON25 scheduled to take place in New Orleans. These gatherings aim to further equip young professionals with the tools and connections necessary to thrive in the evolving hospitality landscape.