As we continue to celebrate Women throughout March, let’s highlight female leaders at the forefront of driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the travel and tourism industry.
From destination marketing to aviation and luxury hospitality, these trailblazing women are redefining leadership in travel. As the travel and tourism industry continues to evolve, female leaders continue to make a difference every day such as Narawadee Bualert, President and CEO of lebua Hotels & Resorts which includes the world’s first vertical destination in Bangkok, as she continues to empower women in every department from front desk to culinary to executive team to develop and refine skillsets within the hospitality sector, Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, who has positioned Grenada as a leader in sustainable tourism with record breaking growth or Agnes Chantre, Chief Pilot at Air Tahiti Nui, a pioneer in aviation who continues to pave the way for women in the skies.
These women are not only elevating their brands, but are also setting new industry standards, proving that their leadership is shaping the future of travel. Below, please find more information and key highlights about these trailblazing women.
Innovators in both design, as the world’s first vertical destination, and culinary expertise with housing two current Michelin-Starred restaurants onsite, lebua Hotels & Resorts has set the tone for cultural and luxury stays in the heart of Bangkok. Offering a sophisticated stay with exceptional views including nightscapes for stargazing above the city and within a short distance from major attractions including Chao Phraya River, lebua at State Tower and the ultra-luxe Tower Club at lebua offers couples, friend groups, business travelers, and more the opportunity to take in all that Bangkok has to offer in an elegant setting. Under the visionary leadership of President and CEO Narawadee Bualert, the vertical destination has entered a new level of creating unique experiences complemented by impeccable service and authentic regional features. Her vision since taking on this role in 2023, has been for stays at lebua hotels & Resorts to generate long-lasting memories for guests as the team continues to expand upon existing luxe features and services.
Video from the CEO here.
Known as the ‘Spice Isle’ of the Caribbean, Grenada—along with its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique—is a hidden gem renowned for its aromatic spices, organic chocolate, white sandy beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, and world-class dive sites. At the helm of its thriving tourism sector is Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, a trailblazing leader with over 25 years of experience in global tourism. Since stepping into her role, Roach has driven record-breaking growth, elevating Grenada’s international profile and spearheading its post-pandemic recovery. Her strategic initiatives, including the expansion of the iconic Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park and the creation of Carriacou’s first underwater sculpture park, have positioned Grenada as a leader in sustainable tourism by protecting fragile marine ecosystems while enhancing the visitor experience. Under her leadership, Grenada has seen 26 consecutive months of positive tourism growth, with a 19% increase in international arrivals in early 2024 alone. By balancing economic success with environmental stewardship, Roach is not only reshaping the future of Caribbean tourism but setting a new industry standard for sustainable travel worldwide.
Tucked along the pristine shores of Grace Bay, Ocean Club Resorts offers two all-suite beachfront properties just one mile apart. Ocean Club East, set slightly inland and next to the Provo Golf Club, provides a peaceful and secluded getaway for those seeking tranquility on a serene beachfront, while Ocean Club West offers a more vibrant atmosphere, close to Providenciales’ shops, restaurants, and local island fun. Led by an all-female management team, Ocean Club Resorts prides itself on delivering warm hospitality and experiences that are both deeply authentic and reflective of the island’s culture. This powerhouse team, combining local expertise, decades of hospitality experience, and a passion for service, drives the expansion of offerings across both resorts, ensuring a seamless blend of unforgettable stays, comfort, and the spirit of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park
At Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, female leadership shines year-round. Nestled in the heart of downtown, just steps from Millennium Park and the city’s top attractions, the hotel offers an elevated escape with thoughtfully designed rooms and the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience – featuring a private lounge, dedicated concierge, and daily culinary offerings. This March and beyond, honor the trailblazers who make Fairmont Chicago a standout destination, with key leadership roles – from Marketing to Revenue and Operations – led by inspiring women shaping every guest experience.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Nestled along Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has further solidified its reputation as a premier beachfront retreat with a recently completed $35 million renovation. Marking its 40th anniversary, the resort now features fully redesigned guest rooms, enhanced dining experiences, and upgraded amenities, including the award-winning Serenity by the sea Spa and an expanded beachfront deck.
Guiding this transformation is General Manager Angelina Covington, whose two decades at the resort bring invaluable expertise and a dedication to exceptional hospitality. Under her leadership, Hilton Sandestin Beach seamlessly blends modern sophistication with its signature Southern charm. With upgraded accommodations, six diverse dining venues, three pools, and refreshed meeting spaces, the resort remains a top destination for family vacations, romantic getaways, and memorable celebrations.
Agnès Chantre, Chief Pilot at Air Tahiti Nui, has been a trailblazer in aviation for over 28 years, making history as the airline’s first female captain in 2014 and leading its first all-female aircrew on a transpacific flight in 2019. Most recently, she played a key role in the airline’s October 2023 all-female crewed flight from Seattle to Tahiti. Under her leadership, Air Tahiti Nui has increased its percentage of female pilots to 7.2%, one of the highest in commercial aviation. As one of the few female chief pilots worldwide, Chantre continues to pave the way for women in aviation, proving that skill and leadership know no gender.
