AHA NSW honours women of hospitality

Over 300 people including ministers and VIPs gathered last night at Sydney's Marquee at The Star to celebrate the third annual Women in Tourism & Hospitality cocktail party and scholarship presentation.

The AHA (NSW) Charitable Foundation was set up to help women achieve their career goals in hospitality and tourism, and last night's soiree saw Ashleigh Smith of Jamberoo win the $20,000 scholarship to the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School.

Westpac CEO, Gail Kelly (pictured below with Ashleigh Smith), presented the award and gave an inspirational key note address detailing her philosophy to life and success, and firmly encompassing her fondness for the hospitality industries.

"Love what you do and back yourself in it," advises Kelly. "Have a positive attitude: choose to be positive, choose to want to learn and grow, choose to follow your dream, choose to not let people hold you back.

"Strive to make a difference to others' lives, strive to make others have a happier day."

AHA (NSW) CEO Paul Nicolaou was in attendance, performing his special talent for networking and strengthening the Association's ideals.

"Women like Ashleigh are the backbone of our industry in regional NSW," said Nicolaou.

"She is a worthy recipient of this award and I wish her all the best in her career in hospitality.

"All four finalists were of the highest quality the future of the industry is in good hands."

Source: The Shout, 24 August 2012