The AHLA Foundation recognized outstanding leaders advancing women in hospitality during FORWARD/26, its flagship annual event held in Atlanta. The foundation presented the annual Paving the Way Award to Sarai Jacko of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and the inaugural Ally of the Year Award to Justin Knight, CEO/director, Apple Hospitality REIT Inc.
“These honorees reflect the kind of leadership required to move this work forward: intentional, accountable and focused on results,” said Kevin Carey, president/CEO, AHLA Foundation. “It was a privilege to present these awards and recognize their incredible contributions to our industry. Their impact is helping to create more pathways for women to succeed and lead in hospitality. By championing inclusion, mentoring the next generation and bridging gaps, they are helping to build stronger teams and a more competitive, resilient industry.”
The AHLA Foundation presented Jacko, regional director of training and development, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, with the FORWARD: Paving the Way Award, which honors a trailblazing woman in the industry who opens doors and creates opportunities for other women. She mentors young women through the Salvation Army and offers voice lessons to pay it forward. She also championed TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) immigration training for her colleagues.
“In hospitality, our greatest legacy is the people we lift up along the way,” said Jacko. “I am proud to be part of a profession where we open doors for others and create opportunities for those who will come after us. I am truly honored and deeply grateful to receive the Paving the Way Award.”
The AHLA Foundation also presented its inaugural FORWARD Ally of the Year Award to Knight, in recognition of his demonstrated commitment to advancing women in senior leadership roles. The Ally of the Year Award acknowledges leaders who take intentional, measurable action to create equitable pathways to leadership. With Knight at the helm, Apple Hospitality REIT’s executive team comprises 50% women. Knight, a former AHLA board chair, has been instrumental in fostering a corporate culture where women are empowered to lead at the highest levels, setting an example for the broader hospitality and real estate investment communities.
“I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of the entire Apple Hospitality REIT team,” said Knight. “Championing women in leadership requires commitment from leaders at every level, and I’m proud of Apple Hospitality’s dedication to building an organization where talent rises regardless of gender. Empowering our people is an important part of our overall strategy, and we’re proud to lead by example. We strongly believe that fostering a corporate culture where women are not only represented but empowered to lead at the highest levels is not only the right thing to do, it also strengthens the entire industry and is integral to driving long-term value. The most successful organizations have male leaders who are active champions, not passive supporters. I’m incredibly grateful for the women on our team and their contributions to our industry.”
FORWARD/26, part of the AHLA Foundation’s broader FORWARD initiative to build community, develop leaders and create game-changing events, convened more than 1,000 hospitality professionals from across the country for two days of impactful programming, conversations and meaningful connections focused on advancing women in the industry.
“FORWARD has become a powerful force across our industry, bringing people together to support and elevate the next generation of leaders,” said Rosanna Maietta, president/CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). “Seeing 1,000 talented professionals gathered in one room, committed to advancing themselves and others, reinforces that our industry’s present and future are in strong hands.”
