Hotel, Events, Organisations & Operators,

Sébastien Bazin, CEO and chairman of Accor Group, will be in Abu Dhabi this September. The global hotel boss is lined up as one of the speakers at this year’s Future Hospitality Summit.
This year’s conference will be the focal point for hospitality investment intelligence, touching up on the influence of ESG on the industry, the impact of the prevailing geopolitical landscape on investment prospects, and the integration of technology in the hospitality sector.
Other speakers include: Abdulaziz Al Khoori, Executive Director of Strategy & Transformation, Miral Group; Giuliano Gasparini, Head of Hospitality Asset Management, Wasl Group; Kevin Jacobs, CFO and President, Global Development, Hilton; and Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana.
Source : Hotelier Middle East

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Future Goals, a landmark partnership program between Sandals Resorts International (SRI) and AFC Ajax that turns fishing nets sourced from the ocean and recycled plastic waste into soccer goals for children, celebrates its first anniversary this month. Founded to expand opportunity to Caribbean children through the power of youth sports, the program which began in Curaçao with the debut of Sandals Royal Curaçao one year ago, announces milestone achievements and events marking the occasion.
According to Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, SRI’s on-the-ground philanthropic arm, the Future Goals program has been a resounding success, providing goals for play, while removing plastic waste, training new coaches and most importantly, making a difference in the lives of local children.
Working with innovative local Curaçaon plastic recycling company Limpi, Future Goals has created 40 football goals since its launch last year; each made from recycled plastic bottles and caps, of which more than 600,000 have been collected through recycling efforts of residents as well as clean-up drives at beaches and in communities. In addition, 160 square meters of ghost fishing nets – nets that have been lost or abandoned in the ocean – were retrieved from the Caribbean Sea and used to make the goals with enough material leftover to make 300 nets for the transport of soccer balls (footballs) provided by partner adidas. Overall, Future Goals programming was available at 29 classes, impacting more than 750 students island wide.
“We are incredibly proud of this partnership with AFC Ajax for their commitment to Future Goals that has made a tremendous difference in the lives of Caribbean children,” said Clarke. “Over the course of this outstanding first year, we have watched young peoples’ love for the game of football be the catalyst that pushes them to learn important life skills such as teamwork, goal setting and resilience while empowering them to become stewards of the environment.  We are grateful for all that they have achieved and look forward to an even brighter future and the opportunity to expand programming through Future Goals to others.”
“It’s a special moment for us here at Sandals Royal Curacao, as we not only celebrate the resort’s first anniversary but our continued commitment to the region. Although Sandals was new to Curaçao when we began our partnership with AFC Ajax, we were not new to the Caribbean, and have long understood the power of youth sports to lift kids up and teach them important life skills. We are so grateful to the team for their commitment to this community and to our new home, Curaçao. We are part of something wonderful here and I know, together, we will continue to make a difference for children and this beautiful country,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of SRI.ADVERTISEMENTCelebrations kicked off yesterday when legendary AFC AJAX players including Ronald de Boer, Richard Witschge, Rob Witschge, Ricardo van Rhijn, Henk Timmer, Jari Litmanen and Nordin Wooter joined Sandals Resorts International CEO Gebhard Rainer and other SRI team members at Sandals Royal Curaçao to commemorate the extraordinary year.
On June 3, kids participating in Future Goals are invited to take part in The Legends Football Tournament, the annual event sponsored by The Curaçao Tourist Board, where this year, well-known former soccer players from AFC Ajax, Brazil, Colombia, and Curaçao come together for fun and friendly play. During the final match’s halftime show, local kids will participate in a crossbar challenge using the up-cycled goals from the Future Goals program. The event takes place at the Curaçao Airport Venue, in a specially built stadium with an artificial turf field.
Fishing nets lost at sea, also known as ghost nets, make up nearly half of the world’s ‘plastic soup’ – a term for the accumulation of waste, including plastic, that ends up in the ocean. Helping to address that in Curaçao was an important impetus behind Future Goals and why on June 8, World Oceans Day – designated by the UN to raise awareness about protecting our oceans, Sandals Resorts International will donate $100 on guests’ behalf to the Sandals Foundation for every reservation made at any of the company’s resorts throughout the Caribbean on this commemorative day.
Celebrations culminate when Future Goals will host its first “Trophy Event” for participants of the program at SDK Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao, the island’s largest stadium, with a capacity of 10,000 spectators. June 20 Nearly 700 kids are expected at the event – which gives them the chance to vie for earned recycled plastic coins through a series of “sports stations” activities that reflect the core principles of the Future Goals program and are based on AFC Ajax values on the field including cooperation, respect, discipline and fun.  Children will also have the chance to earn extra points for their teams by demonstrating the success of their recently concluded Plastic Challenge, a central part of the Future Goals sustainability curriculum that teaches how to repurpose waste plastic and ways to influence peers and the community. All kids also earn a repurposed plastic medal of participation and the school with the most coins will take home an impressive trophy made of recycled plastic.
Since its inception in 1981, Sandals Resorts has taken an unparalleled approach to supporting the communities where it operates. Through its philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation, the luxury all-inclusive resort company began its work in Curaçao – its seventh and newest destination in the Caribbean, ahead of the 2022 debut of Sandals Royal Curaçao, SRI’s first hotel in the country.

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Sandals Resorts International (SRI), parent company of the Caribbean’s leading luxury all-inclusive resort brands Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, is bridging the gap between healthy oceans and its Caribbean communities through a series of ongoing environmental initiatives. In honor of World Oceans Day, for every booking made on June 8th, a donation of $100 will be made on guests’ behalf to the Sandals Foundation, the not-for-profit organization established in 2009 to make positive change throughout the Caribbean.
Sandals has been voted World’s Leading All Inclusive Company for the past 25 years in a row at the World Travel Awards.
“In the Caribbean, a ‘home’ is not merely a house or a room. Home is in the sands, in the breeze, and of course, in the ocean,” says Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.  “As we continue to expand, bringing more travelers into the Caribbean each year, our top priority is to maintain the natural beauty of the communities and habitats around us.  Each year, we celebrate World Oceans Day, and this year, we’d love for our valued guests to join us in that. Together we can preserve the shores and sands of the Caribbean Sea for generations to come.”
Each booking-inspired donation will be given in full to the Sandals Foundation, with 100% of the collections going directly towards funding meaningful initiatives within the key areas of education, community and environment. Beyond this, SRI, in partnership with the Sandals Foundation, has implemented expansive year round programming that helps protect, preserve and give back to the ocean’s ecosystems and in turn, the Caribbean community that depends on them, including:
Lionfish Culling The Sandals Foundation actively engages students and fishers to reduce numbers of lionfish in marine spaces. In 2022, over 200 lionfish were culled from Sandals’ Fish Sanctuaries, with presentations made to students, fishers and community members throughout the year to encourage the consumption. On resort, guests can join a special lionfish hunting dive where they will see firsthand what it takes to save our oceans from the invasive species. Divers, both beginners or pros, can earn a PADI certification in lionfish removal through an Invasive Species Tracker specialty certification course. Guests will follow up their dives with specially prepared (guilt-free) lionfish cuisine, the preparation of which is demonstrated by a local chef.ADVERTISEMENTTurtle ConservationThrough SRI’s newest partner Ocean Spirits, guests at Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts in Grenada and Jamaica can support turtle conservation for Hawksbill, Leatherback, and Green Sea turtles. In the 2022 turtle nesting season, a record 25,000 hatchlings were released. At resorts in the Ocho Rios region, guests can join in the efforts and participate in turtle tours, monitoring thousands of fresh hatchlings as they journey into the sea.
Coral RestorationSince its inception in April 2009, the Sandals Foundation has made a priority of establishing coral nurseries throughout Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Grenada. In the past 14 years, Sandals has seen more than 20,000 coral fragments outplanted. The Foundation also funds ongoing coral nursery maintenance activities at the marine sanctuaries in an effort to reduce algal bloom and remove predators. Guests have the opportunity to help in the replanting of thousands of coral pieces to help restore local reefs, fish populations and shorelines in St. Lucia. While visiting Sandals properties in St. Lucia, guests can enjoy an introduction to coral nurseries and a coral outplanting PADI certified course designed to familiarize divers with the basic skills, knowledge and procedures of propagating corals in underwater nurseries and outplanting them on suitable reefs.
Future GoalsFuture Goals is a landmark partnership program between SRI and AFC Ajax that turns fishing nets sourced from the ocean and recycled plastic waste into soccer goals for children. Founded to expand opportunity to Caribbean children through the power of youth sports, the program began in Curaçao with the debut of Sandals Royal Curaçao one year ago.  Working with innovative local Curaçaon plastic recycling company Limpi, Future Goals has created 40 football goals since its launch last year; each made from recycled plastic bottles and caps, of which more than 600,000 have been collected through recycling efforts of residents as well as clean-up drives at beaches and in communities. Not only does Future Goals remove harmful plastic waste from beaches and oceans, it provides goals for valuable play, trains new coaches and makes a difference in the lives of local children.
Sharks 4 KidsIn collaboration with marine education organization Sharks4Kids, the Sandals Foundation has engaged more than 2,000 children in interactive learning sessions about the ocean’s most curious creatures. Participating students learn about shark conservation, shark tagging, and the important role sharks play in the Caribbean waters.
Mangrove PlantingWith the help of various partners across the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation has developed educational videos and books to expand awareness about the importance of mangrove ecosystems, many of which face threats such as infrastructural development and contamination of toxic chemicals. Partnerships with Environmental Awareness Group in Antigua and The Adventures of Xuma in the Bahamas, plus many more, have helped develop resources for primary-level students to learn about mangroves with funding for these productions provided by the Sandals Foundation and its donors.
Marine SanctuariesIn addition to its funding of local sanctuaries across the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation independently manages two fully operational marine sanctuaries in Jamaica. The Sandals Foundation hires and trains local fishers to monitor the sanctuaries and interact with the local fishing communities. These community-sourced personnel are employed and trained in multiple disciplines, including coral outplanting, public education and patrolling.
Blue Business CertificationThrough a partnership with Oceanic Global, the Sandals Foundation has engaged local businesses in Grenada and Jamaica to increase its capacity in marine conservation. Through a blue assessment and funded training, business leaders are taught the importance of streamlining their business practices due to close proximity to a marine environment. Recycling, the need to utilize biodegradable materials in their business processes, and other key elements are taught during the project.
To learn about Sandals and Beaches Resorts commitment to safeguarding the ocean, read our ‘World Oceans Day 2023’ blog post here. https://www.sandals.com/blog/world-oceans-day-2023/

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Hard Rock International, as a part of a commitment towards a cleaner, eco-friendly world, is once again reflecting on its partnership with global leader in environmental conservation World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and participation in the annual Earth Hour movement.On Saturday, March 25, more than 135 Hard Rock Hotels, Cafes and Casinos around the globe participated by “going dark” for one hour starting at 8:30 pm local property time. This year has proven to be Hard Rock’s most successful Earth Hour activation to-date, with more participating Hotels, Cafes and Casinos, and kilowatts conserved than ever before in the history of the partnership with World Wildlife Fund.
“Hard Rock’s ongoing partnership with World Wildlife Fund timed to Earth Hour each year is celebrated by properties and team members all over the world as a true testament to living out the ‘Save the Planet’ motto that bonds us all,” said Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility for Hard Rock International. “This year, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our Hotels, Cafes and Casinos worldwide who made this the most impactful Earth Hour yet just by shutting off the lights and hosting unique activations for guests to enjoy.”
In celebration of Earth Hour this year, the 135+ participating properties’ restaurants, bars, Rock Shops®, hotel rooms, casino lobbies, and outdoor spaces enjoyed candle-lit dinners, acoustic musical performances, sustainable menu options, sustainable movie series, and upcycling competition events, including:
135+ Hard Rock properties around the world unplugged their iconic guitar and other lights for one hour among creative, planet-friendly activations. Hard Rock Cafe Shenzhen offered guests the chance to test drive electric vehicles. Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya held an upcycling competition to recreate iconic Hard Rock memorabilia, and having guests vote on which should be highlighted in the hotel’s lobby.10 Hotels, including Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Hard Rock Amsterdam, and Hard Rock Hotel Davos, hosted live acoustic music performances alongside candle lit performances.14 properties developed special menus highlighting local ingredients and menu pairings for candle-lit dinners. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, for instance, created a curated plant-based menu for the occasion.9 Hotels and Casinos crafted cocktails celebrating “Going Dark,” with homegrown herbs and spirits from around the world. Hard Rock Hotel Bali and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana offered one of a kind, “Save the Planet” themed cocktails to their guests.
To learn more about Hard Rock’s mottos and commitment to “Save the Planet” including its partnerships with World Wildlife Fund and other sustainable partners like Clean The World, please visit www.hardrock.com/living-our-mottos.aspx. Additional information on Hard Rock International can be found by visiting www.hardrock.com.ADVERTISEMENT

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One&Only, the ultra-luxury collection of iconic Resorts and Private Homes, has unveiled a new global brand campaign celebrating exceptional one-offs.The statement-making campaign reflects the brand’s new positioning, showcasing the unique narrative and charisma of each one-of-a-kind resort. Far from being a cookie-cutter experience, each One&Only Resort is an individual star – and so too are One&Only’s guests: discerning, well-travelled and accomplished people who are increasingly seeking authenticity and exceptional, money-can’t-buy experiences. To bring the campaign to life, One&Only collaborated with Pentagram, the multi-disciplinary design studio that originally conceived the One&Only brand in 2002. Together they have created a dynamic campaign that presents One&Only’s one-off Resorts and Private Homes through the lens of real people doing authentic things in exceptional places. Launching last week, the first instalment follows celebrated sustainable fashion designer Mara Hoffman, President/Creative Director of her eponymous brand, as she enjoys an intimate holiday with family and friends in Mexico. Mara and her family stayed at One&Only Mandarina in Riviera Nayarit, a resort that aligns with her brand’s unique approach, centred on beauty, spirituality, environmentalism and humanity.
The family’s stay at One&Only Mandarina was captured by renowned fashion photographer Lachlan Bailey, who has worked with some of the world’s biggest brands, stars and publications, along with a full social media team. Lachlan and the social media team artfully captured spontaneous, candid images and videos as Mara’s holiday unfolded in real time, creating an authentic connection with the audience that is a clear departure from the more staged and stylised resort campaigns of the past.
Inspired by legendary celebrity photographer Slim Aarons, the campaign is rich in intimate details and off-the-cuff vitality, celebrating ‘exceptional people, doing exceptional things, in exceptional places’. Lachlan’s striking photography depicts Mara, her husband, collage artist Javier Piñon, son Joaquin, and close friends Lysa Cooper, a vibe enhancement specialist, and Astrid Schmidt, a psychotherapist and jewellery designer, exploring the unspoilt Riviera Nayarit via curated adventures, alfresco celebrations, and quiet moments among nature. Lachlan’s signature style of sunshine-drenched elevated reality delivers an aesthetic that is both sophisticated and intimate. The resulting imagery illustrates natural, genuinely candid moments, showcasing a distinctive ‘story’ unique to its location, underpinned by a personalised service philosophy that informs One&Only’s ultra-luxury guest experience.
“Capturing the mood and energy of Mara and her family at One&Only Mandarina was one of the most perfect and authentic pairings I’ve been a part of,” said Lachlan Bailey. “Communicating the family characteristics and intimate interactions in such a raw environment is the essence of the campaign.” Mara and her family also recorded their own behind-the-scenes holiday moments, sharing beautiful user-generated content that adds incredible depth and honesty to the campaign. Charli Crosland, One&Only Head of Brand, continued: “Everything you see in this campaign is real – their love for each other, their enjoyment, their excitement – it’s all real and completely unscripted.”
“When selecting families to feature in the newest One&Only brand campaign, we were looking for a series of real people doing authentic things in one-off places,” commented Brett Armitage, Chief Commercial Officer, Kerzner International. “Mara Hoffman exemplifies the One&Only brand values – conscientious, accomplished, and glamorous, and was purposefully paired with One&Only Mandarina as her reputation and values mirror those of the resort. The campaign recognises a desire for people to see content they can connect with. It further reflects the continued growth of multi-family travel and conveys the energy of the One&Only guest experience, local culture and genuine hospitality.”ADVERTISEMENTAs a leader in sustainable fashion, there’s a natural synergy between Mara’s ethos rooted in care for the planet and all of its inhabitants, and One&Only Mandarina’s conscious philosophy. “I am so grateful for the hospitality and respite that One&Only Mandarina offered me, my family and my friends in one of the most luxurious resorts, outshined only by its awe-inspiring, natural surroundings,” said Mara Hoffman. “Between walks amongst giant trees, surfing, visiting neighbouring towns, and moments of solitude and deep introspection, the balance of adventure and quiet serenity was unparalleled. Knowing that One&Only actively values the natural world, preservation of culture, and respect for all humans truly cemented our experience and we greatly appreciate Lachlan for capturing these special moments so beautifully.”
Launching this month across print and digital media outlets worldwide, the campaign includes several short videos portraying Mara Hoffman and her family’s one-of-a-kind stay at One&Only Mandarina. Throughout the remainder of the year, additional elements and activations with Mara will be revealed. Mara is the first instalment in a three-year series that will star modern, multigenerational families who exemplify the One&Only values and epitomise diversity across ethnicity, gender, age and lifestyles. To watch the campaign unfold, follow @OOResorts as Mara’s One&Only story is revealed.
For reservations or information on One&Only Resorts and Private Homes, visit oneandonlyresorts.com.

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Marriott Hotels® – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s® portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, along with Manchester United, one of the world’s most popular sports teams, are offering fans the chance to win an overnight stay at Old Trafford – an experience only made possible with Marriott Hotels and Manchester United. By entering the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams contest, fans will share their favorite part of a hotel stay – whether indulging in room service, unwinding with a spa treatment, or experiencing new cultures through the hotel’s art of hosting. The lucky fan and their guest will have the opportunity to wake up on matchday at Old Trafford, in the comfort of the Marriott Hotels’ M Club hospitality suite, which has been transformed into one of the brand’s guest rooms, overlooking the legendary pitch.
The winner of the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams global sweepstakes will enjoy an extraordinary prize with an overnight stay the night before Manchester United’s Premier League home match against Aston Villa on April 30, 2023. Bringing signature Marriott Hotels experiences to Old Trafford, the winners will take part in several activities synonymous with the iconic hotel brand, in addition to behind-the-scenes stadium experiences. These include a night in the Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stadium and featuring the brand’s signature guest room elements including its premium bed experience; in-suite dining experiences; a private museum and stadium tour; interact with stadium announcer Alan Keegan; matchday tickets and hospitality; and mix and mingling with club legends throughout.“Collaborating with Manchester United to bring the Marriott Hotels experience inside Old Trafford is just one of the ways we enliven the extraordinary Marriott Bonvoy portfolio with the popular sports team,” said Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President, Brand, Loyalty & Portfolio Marketing, Marriott International. “We’re excited to be creating the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams again in this iconic setting, giving a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the winner to wake up in the home of Manchester United and experience the wonderful hospitality of Marriott Hotels.”
In its fourth year partnering with Manchester United, Marriott Bonvoy continues to offer exclusive access to football fans, travelers, and members of the award-winning travel program including:
Marriott Bonvoy’s in-stadium ‘Seat of Dreams’Exclusive Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM experiences for membersIn- and out of-stadium activations with Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. This includes the M Club Suite at Old Trafford, designed in the style of the brand’s M Clubs, a dedicated space for Marriott Bonvoy members to relax and connect at Marriott Hotels around the worldAccess to interviews and one-on-one conversation with playersMarriott Bonvoy Moments are currently live through the end of the season, including an incredible “Play on the Pitch” experience where members can participate in a football match at Old Trafford Stadium coached by Manchester United Legends. Experiences for the 2023-2024 season will be released this summer on moments.marriottbonvoy.com.
To enter, visit ManUtd.com/SuiteofDreams and complete a submission before 11:59 EST on April 6, 2023. See website for full terms and conditions.ADVERTISEMENT

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Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts today announced its new partnership with Williams Racing, ahead of the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship that kicks off this weekend in Bahrain.As part of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts’ journey of accelerated growth, the brand has most recently opened Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa, aptly timed with the start of the Williams Racing partnership. Resting on the unexplored, pristine beaches of Bahrain’s West Coast, this newest address offers a picturesque setting for guests, just 10 minutes from the Bahrain International Circuit.
Resonating with Jumeirah’s strategic growth trajectory, Williams Racing continues to push boundaries in the quest for performance excellence. With 26 properties in 10 countries, Jumeirah is dedicated to driving innovation, and delivering the most exhilarating experiences for its guests, partners, and Jumeirah One members.
The relationship with Williams Racing will offer Jumeirah’s guests memorable moments and curated events at Grand Prix locations around the world. Culminating at the season finale Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, neighbouring Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort & Spa is perfectly placed to offer guests an unforgettable race weekend.

Alexander Lee, Chief Commercial Officer, Jumeirah Group: “We’re thrilled to unveil our partnership with Williams Racing, one of the most iconic brands in the world of Formula One. With its rich history and reputation for excellence, Williams Racing’s values are perfectly aligned with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. We’re proud to launch this partnership in Bahrain, where the new Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa is ideally located just 10 minutes from the circuit. Together with Williams Racing, we look forward to introducing our signature Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts experience to Formula One fans around the world. The sport of Formula One, which thrives on performance and continuously pushing limits, aligns with Jumeirah, and our ambitious vision of growth and expansion.”ADVERTISEMENTCommenting on the partnership, James Bower, Commercial Director at Williams Racing added: “We’re delighted to partner with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. Jumeirah has an ambitious vision of growth and a dedication to excellence that resonates with our values and the journey we are on. Jumeirah’s strategic growth trajectory has led them to Williams Racing and we look forward to developing and elevating these very special experiences with their incredible hospitality expertise throughout this season and beyond.”
For more information, visit Jumeirah.com/williamsf1.

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Hilton and charity organisation, Minus18, have announced a nationwide partnership that aims to give​ more LGBTQIA+ young people in Australia​ the right to free, inclusive and empowering school formals – launched last week by queer icon and advocate, actor, model and DJ, Ruby Rose ​during Sydney’s WorldPride.
Hilton’s ​support will see an expanded footprint for Minus18’s Queer Formals program, enabling it to roll out in new cities and regional areas nationally from 2024, with the hope of providing LGBTQIA+ ​youth nationwide the opportunity to experience their school formal as their authentic selves.
Ruby Rose has come on board as an ambassador to champion the partnership to raise awareness of the discrimination and exclusion LGBTQIA+ teens experience at school formals – from how they dress to who they bring as a date.
“As a queer person who came out at a very young age, I cannot overstate the importance of this cause. I am so overjoyed to be part of the partnership with Hilton and Minus18 to drive awareness around the need to provide more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ teens. I remember, as a teen, finding an ad for the Minus18 events in a free newspaper. I don’t think I missed an event after that. At the time it was one of the only communities I truly felt free to be myself,” said Ruby Rose.
“The steps Hilton and Minus18 are taking will be life-changing for thousands of kids and young adults. We must never underestimate the impact inclusion and acceptance has on both young people in their formative years.”ADVERTISEMENTRuby Rose
“The steps Hilton and Minus18 are taking will be life-changing for thousands of kids and young adults. We must never underestimate the impact inclusion and acceptance has on both young people in their formative years. Attending a school formal as your true self is a rite of passage that every teen deserves. Queer high schoolers too often don’t have the right support network when navigating who they are. It’s time to change this,” she said.
As part of its support, Hilton also staged its Rainbow Formal gala event, which was held this Wednesday, 1 March​ 2023​ at ​Hilton ​Sydney ​on ​George Street, headlined by singer Delta Goodrem. The event aims to support Minus18 to raise vital funds and awareness for its future events, educational programs and broader mission to create inclusive environments for young LGBTQIA+ Australians.
“​Hilton’s inclusive culture keeps diversity at the centre of everything we do, and we are committed to creating a positive impact on the communities we operate in and providing a welcoming stay for all who come through our doors. ​As a global hospitality company, we ​are delighted to have this opportunity​ to support ​Minus18 in their efforts to change the lives of even more LGBTQIA+ teens in Australia​,” said Paul Hutton, area vice president and head of Australasia, Hilton. “Everyone deserves to attend their school formal with pride. We look forward to seeing what we can achieve together with Minus18, and the backing of Ruby Rose.”
​​Since 2010, ​Minus18 ​has been ​supporting more than 5,000 young Australians every year through life-affirming events, with thousands more accessing digital resources, and peer education created by the LGBTQIA+ community.
“With ​Hilton and ​Ruby Rose behind us, our programs will have considerably more scale and reach, helping thousands more young people gain access to inclusive spaces – like our Queer Formals,” said Micah Scott, chief executive officer, Minus18. “With ​two​ in ​three​ LGBTQIA+ youth​s​ in Australia still today experiencing abuse for who they are, creating inclusive spaces has never been more important.”
As part of the company’s commitment to advance ​diversity and ​inclusion efforts, Hilton will roll out gender and sexuality training with Minus18 for all team members across its network of 23 properties in Australia ​and​ New Zealand. This aims to make every Hilton ​property in the region ​a​n​ ​LGBTQIA+ ​inclusive ​space ​and complements existing global Diversity & Inclusion training required for all Hilton team members, including training on Unconscious Bias.
The company’s ​more than ​400,000 team members globally are encouraged to bring their full, authentic selves to work. WorldPride celebrations in Sydney will be led by Hilton’s dedicated team. Events include hotel celebrations, team education sessions, as well as representation at Mardi Gras Fair Day and the Pride Village celebrations near Oxford Street.
Hilton​, Ruby Rose​ and Minus18 are calling on the Australian public to support LGBTQIA+ teens’ right to inclusive spaces, including Queer Formals, by donating to Minus18. For more information, visit asiapac.hilton.com/standwithpride/

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