Empowering Futures: NABHOOD Summit Through My Eyes

Before diving into the event itself, let me introduce you to NABHOOD. This dynamic organization is dedicated to empowering African-Americans in the hospitality industry. Their mission resonates deeply with our values at OCYC. Their primary focus is to boost African-American participation in hotel development, management, ownership, and operation. By increasing vendor opportunities and executive-level positions for minorities, NABHOOD is creating a pathway to economic prosperity within our community.

The heart of the event was the Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show. For NABHOOD, this summit is more than just a gathering; it's a platform that empowers us with information, resources, and connections to make significant strides in our goals. It was truly an honor for OCYC to be a part of this impactful initiative.

At OCYC, we believe in nurturing potential and providing our youth with opportunities that broaden their horizons. The NABHOOD Summit aligned perfectly with our mission. We seized the opportunity to bring young ladies from Girl Power, Touching Miami with Love, and Overtown Youth Center to the summit. These bright souls not only attended but also contributed and assisted throughout the conference. Their presence was inspiring, and they left an indelible mark on everyone they met.

One of the standout moments was when we had the privilege of interacting with prominent figures in the hospitality and tourism industry. A picture with Dr. Andy Ingraham, President of NABHOOD, marked a moment of empowerment. Meeting trailblazers like Ms. Connie Kinnard, Vice President Multicultural Sales & Development GMCVB, Ms. Monica Melancon, Chief Human Resource Officer for Wyndham World Hotel Group, and Ms. DeShaun Wise-Porter, Global Vice President of Diversity, Engagement and Inclusion at Hilton Hotels, was nothing short of inspiring.

Amidst these connections, what truly stood out was the genuine encouragement and advice shared by these incredible individuals. As the young ladies received words of wisdom and empowerment from Ms. Melancon and Ms. Wise-Porter, their spirits were uplifted. Our youth's faces radiated joy and excitement, capturing the essence of the opportunity they were part of.

Young ladies from Girl Power, Touching Miami with Love, and Overtown Youth Center attended and assisted at the conference.  We are extremely proud of their performance. They left a lasting impression on the attendees. Suited for Success Dress for Success Miami provided attire for their amazing each day.

As I reflect on the event, I can't help but be filled with gratitude. The smiles, the connections, and the lessons learned have all woven together into a tapestry of hope. The empowerment that flowed through the summit reaffirms our dedication to creating pathways for our youth, allowing them to envision futures that transcend boundaries.

In essence, the NABHOOD Summit echoed a sentiment close to our hearts—creating ownership through education, networking, and learning how to invest in the hospitality industry. As we move forward, I'm inspired by the impact we've made and the inspiration we've gained. This experience is a reminder that collaboration and empowerment hold the key to building stronger communities and brighter futures.

"Creating ownership through education, networking, and learning how to invest in the hospitality industry."

- NABHOOD