By Yazmin Perez, Senior Account Manager

I recently had the opportunity to attend the 29th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show (NABHOOD) in Miami, where industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries gathered to discuss ownership, investment, and leadership opportunities within hospitality. The summit went beyond panels and programming, it was a space for connection, mentorship, and a deeper look at how we can build a more inclusive future for the industry.

One of the strongest themes of the summit was the power of impact. The African American market continues to be overlooked, despite its proven influence on travel and tourism. Within the meetings and events (MICE) sector, family and community reunions were highlighted as a powerful reminder of the cultural traditions driving demand. These insights signal an opportunity for hospitality brands to better recognize and engage with this audience in meaningful ways.

At its core, NABHOOD is about creating opportunities. From pathways to ownership to executive leadership, the conversations underscored how critical mentorship and access are for building the next generation of hospitality leaders. What struck me most was the emphasis on not just opening doors, but ensuring people feel welcomed and supported once inside.

Throughout the sessions, several reflections stood out:

“It’s not the 50 books you read, it’s the 5–10 friends you surround yourself with.”
A call to distinguish between service and servitude in hospitality, challenging us to ensure dignity and respect are always at the core of guest experiences.
“We need each other—the experience of our elders and the energy of our youth.” A powerful reminder of the importance of multigenerational collaboration in shaping the future.

For me, the NABHOOD Summit reinforced that hospitality is more than hotels—it’s about people, community, and shared experience. As a PR professional, it was a reminder that the most impactful stories we tell are rooted in creating opportunity, fostering connection, and driving meaningful change.

I left the summit energized and inspired, with a renewed commitment to amplifying voices that have long been underrepresented and helping the hospitality industry reflect the rich diversity of the communities it serves.

Recap of 2025 NABHOOD Summit