World’s Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality 2023

1. Vol. 10 | Issue 16 | October 2023 www.worldsleaders.com World’s Most Women in Hospitality 2023 An Inspiring Woman Executive MAGGIE HARDY HARDY

4. World's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality 2023 Saving Lives Globally Should you have ever had the opportunity to study human resources, you may have encountered the issue of women's employment position. The human resource concept is rife with the "glass ceiling" idea. For those of you who don't know, it's said to act as a barrier against women. Numerous international studies demonstrate that prejudices against women exist everywhere in the world. These prejudices, which impede women's advancement in the workforce, are frequently systematic and deeply ingrained. They derive from the persistent perception that the ideal worker in the hospitality sector is still a man. The professional standing of women reflects this bias in a number of ways, including lower compensation, low-status positions at entry levels, stagnation in middle management, and challenges when they advance to board rooms and senior executive positions. significantly low. The cover features Maggie Hardy, the owner and CEO of 84 Lumber, leads one of the United States' largest privately-owned building materials suppliers. The company, originally founded by her father, Joe Hardy, in 1956 in Eighty-Four, Pennsylvania, came under her leadership in 1992 when she was just 26 years old. Incredibly, the company achieved over $1 billion in sales the very next year. Today, 84 Lumber operates an extensive network of nearly 310 facilities across 35 states, generating an impressive $8 billion in revenue. Beyond her role at 84 Lumber, Maggie also owns the Nemacolin resort in rural Pennsylvania, which boasts design elements inspired by the elegance of the Ritz in Paris, along with vintage airplanes and even a piece of the Berlin Wall. The apparent preference for males in top roles and women in more subordinate roles is one discernible trend in the hospitality sector. Research indicates that prevalent biases within the sector include the belief that women are incapable of handling the demands of long hours and night shifts, as well as maintaining a positive work-life balance. Cultural discouragement and developmental disparities are further barriers to women's success in leadership roles. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts. World Leader's latest edition “World's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Hospitality 2023” has featured women representing institutions and universities at the vice chancellor, dean and director positions is Have a lovely read!

5. CREDIT PAGE Editor-in-Chief Steve Sanchez Managing Editor Jagdish Chincholikar Executive Editor Nicole Williams Assistant Editor Gayatri Bhujbal Art & Design Director Jack Anderson Business Development Manager Kyle Adams Business Development Executive Natalie, Jerrey Associate Designer Kevin Rust Digital Marketing Manager Victor Clarke Sales Manager Casey Simpson, Irfan Shekh Marketing Manager Tom Swann Technical Specialist Barry Jones Circulation Manager Danny Parker OCTOBER 2023 3296 Westerville Rd #250, Columbus, OH 43224, USA Copyright 2023 WORLD’S LEADERS Media Tech LLC, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WORLD’S LEADERS Reprint rights remain solely with WORLD’S LEADERS. Follow us on :

6. Cov Sry 10 Maggie Hardy An Inspiring Woman Executive

7. 20 Dupe Olusola 24 Emily Hartstone Jana M. Bader 28 Liliam M. Lopez 34 Nadia Di Donato 38 42 Rasha Al Danhani Theresa McLarney 48 52 Zarine Manchanda Zeina El-Dana 56

10. MAGGIE HARDY HARDY An Inspiring Woman Executive MAGGIE HARDY HARDY COVER STORY 10 | October 2023

11. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice worldsleaders.com | 11

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13. Maggie Hardy, the owner and CEO of 84 Lumber, leads one of the United States' largest privately-owned building materials suppliers. The company, originally founded by her father, Joe Hardy, in 1956 in Eighty-Four, Pennsylvania, came under her leadership in 1992 when she was just 26 years old. Incredibly, the company achieved over $1 billion in sales the very next year. I would like to foster stronger associate communities, expand environmental efforts within the hospitality industry and society as a whole, and ensure everyone experiences Real Life Magic in their lifetime.” Today, 84 Lumber operates an extensive network of nearly 310 facilities across 35 states, generating an impressive $8 billion in revenue. Beyond her role at 84 Lumber, Maggie also owns the Nemacolin resort in rural Pennsylvania, which boasts design elements inspired by the elegance of the Ritz in Paris, along with vintage airplanes and even a piece of the Berlin Wall. In her capacity as the owner and CEO of Nemacolin, Maggie bears the joyful yet significant responsibility of overseeing the present and future of the resort, working closely with the dedicated team of associates. A substantial portion of her role involves ensuring the seamless operation and sustainable growth of Nemacolin, aligning with the vision for its prosperous future. Her evaluation of the resort's progress and her own effectiveness as a leader involves a comprehensive analysis of both the property's growth and the team supporting it. Among the many aspects of her daily routine, Maggie finds immense happiness in connecting with and checking in on her associates. Recognizing the integral role they play in Nemacolin's advancement, their life updates serve as ongoing motivation in her daily work, inspiring the resort's continual growth. Maggie firmly believes that the trajectory of the organization would not be possible without the dedication and contributions of Team Nemacolin. As a result, she places great emphasis on nurturing authentic and genuine relationships with every member of the associate team. These relationships are at the heart of the resort's success and her role in shaping its future. worldsleaders.com | 13

14. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice 14 | October 2023

15. Redefining Luxury at Nemacolin and Shaping the Future The future of Nemacolin is set to take flight in September with the much- anticipated opening of The Grand Lodge. This marks the beginning of an exciting chapter as the company reimagines the original accommodation of the resort. The Grand Lodge is nothing short of breathtaking, offering an all- suite experience that elevates the vision of the original lodge. With 56 butler-serviced suites, personalized amenities, new dining options, bars, and spaces for its valued guests and members to enjoy, The Grand Lodge is set to redefine luxury. Nemacolin has spared no expense in sourcing the finest interior designers, builders, and architects for this project, and the team can't wait to share it with its cherished members and guests. This reimagination represents just the first step in unveiling the updated, eclectic style that defines Nemacolin. The management thrilled about its grand opening and the opportunity to solidify Nemacolin's position as a premier luxury resort. With this project's completion, the hotel is ready to share its story with the world, revealing all the incredible work happening behind the scenes. Nemacolin has been a hospitality leader for over 35 years, welcoming guests from around the globe. It has consistently reinvested in the resort, and there are no bounds to what the team will do to enhance the resort's reputation regionally, nationally, and internationally. It invites everyone to come and experience the fun and whimsy that Nemacolin has to offer. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice worldsleaders.com | 15

16. A Family Legacy of Adventure, Luxury, and Hospitality Nemacolin represents the start of a lifelong venture shared between Maggie and her father. Today, she continues to build upon this legacy with her son, PJ Magerko Liquorice, ensuring that the project remains a cherished and enduring family endeavor. Nemacolin is a getaway like no other, with over 2,200 acres of adventure, luxury accommodations, and unparalleled service, we have established ourselves as a must-visit destination and welcome all who visit into the Nemacolin family. The property offers five lodging options: The Chateau, Falling Rock, The Grand Lodge (opening September 2023), The Homes, and The Estates. There are over 18 restaurants, lounges and eateries, each offering unique and unforgettable experiences for guests and members. Leadership through Immersion Maggie has discovered that one of the most effective ways to grow and develop as a business leader is by immersing herself in the industry, she works in. Through travel and exploration, she gains valuable insights into emerging trends and draws inspiration for Nemacolin. By actively engaging with various hospitality experiences, she can observe and learn from competitors, contributing to her growth and development as a business leader. Nemacolin is a testament to a lifelong project that began in 1987 when Maggie's father set out to buy a few acres near a lake or stream for her. Maggie's love for the outdoors and fishing inspired this endeavor. Instead of just acquiring a small piece of land, they discovered and fell in love with a family hunting reserve. This initial purchase included a large portion of land and a lodge, which served as the original accommodation until a recent comprehensive reimagining in the year mentioned. Maggie's role offers her the unique freedom to find inspiration in a wide range of sources, from innovative fashion trends to groundbreaking developments in art and gastronomy. This openness to diverse influences 16 | October 2023

17. enriches her perspective and keeps her attuned to the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. For emerging leaders, Maggie emphasizes the importance of considering all the contributing factors to success. She places a strong emphasis on cultivating a dedicated family of associates while simultaneously focusing on the development and enhancement of the property itself. By balancing the needs and aspirations of both her associates and the expectations of guests and members, Nemacolin continues to achieve success, and Maggie continues to evolve as a better leader. Nemacolin has developed its own app, which not only assists guests in navigating the property but also connects them with personalized concierge services right from the moment they make a reservation. Each guest is assigned a dedicated Nemacolin associate who takes care of their preferences, dietary restrictions, special occasions, and vacation goals to ensure a tailored and unforgettable stay. Furthermore, technological advancements are playing a crucial role in supporting sustainability initiatives at Nemacolin. The addition of a photovoltaic solar array on the hotel's roof, the conversion of the golf cart fleet to electric vehicles, and the availability of zero-emission bicycles and electric bicycles for guests all contribute to reducing the resort's environmental impact. The property's commitment to sustainability also extends to recycling used cooking oil into biofuel for heating and replacing traditional lighting with energy-efficient LED bulbs. Tech-Driven Hospitality with a Personal Touch Maggie highlights how technology is shaping the hospitality industry, influencing various aspects from pre-arrival experiences to on-site services. While embracing technology to enhance guest experiences, Nemacolin also strives to maintain the essential personal touch that defines hospitality. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice worldsleaders.com | 17

18. These advancements in technology align with broader industry trends that emphasize sustainability, allowing Nemacolin to continue its efforts in promoting environmentally responsible practices within the hospitality sector. The second one involved the development of the Wisteria community for Nemacolin's associates. While some might have questioned the prioritization of a community for associates over re-envisioning accommodations for guests, Maggie recognized the importance of her team and their role in the resort's success. Wisteria offers amenities exclusively for associates, acknowledging their dedication and contribution to Nemacolin. Bold Risks and Bright Visions Maggie describes two significant risk she has undertaken during her professional journey. The first involves the reimagining of the original lodge at Nemacolin. This decision required trust from both her and the resort's members and guests in envisioning the future of the property. Reimagining the historic lodge meant temporarily closing it during construction and offering fewer lodging options. However, the creation of The Grand Lodge with 56 suites and elevated experiences was seen as a worthwhile endeavor. Looking ahead, Maggie sees Nemacolin continuing to thrive as a leading luxury resort. She believes in the limitless possibilities and the resort's commitment to delivering excellence in countless ways, ensuring its continued success in the years to come. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice 18 | October 2023

19. Photo Credit: Jordan Millington Liquorice worldsleaders.com | 19

20. Dupe Olusola A Distinguished Business Leader with Experience Spans Various Sectors Locally and Internationally Journey to Achieving Proficiency Dupe always had a strong desire to make a positive impact on African economies by creating employment opportunities and addressing poverty. From a young age, she was drawn to watching CNN and keeping up with global events. This led her to study economics at the University of Leicester and then specialize in development Economics, focusing her thesis on the impact of aid and trade on growth in developing economies. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Transcorp Hotels' brands are uniquely identifiable and collectively powerful. The company's expanding portfolio of award-winning and innovative brands ensures superior guest experiences across its key locations and all touchpoints. The hotels have hosted numerous notable personalities, making them destination venues for business leaders and celebrities visiting Nigeria. Transcorp Hotels has undergone notable changes since its inception in 1994 and has achieved significant milestones. After obtaining her degrees, Dupe worked with Bloomberg and Northern Trust in the United Kingdom before returning to Nigeria. In Nigeria, she worked with SecTrust (now Afrinvest) and Africa's leading Private Equity Firm SME Manager/African Capital Alliance. She then joined the Investor Relations department of the UBA group in 2008 before eventually becoming the Director of Resources at Transcorp in January 2010. Leading NigerianHospitality Service Provider Transcorp Hotels Plc is a leading hospitality company in Africa and is listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX). The company owns the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, which is Africa's premier business hotel. However, in response to the pandemic, Transcorp Hilton Abuja introduced innovative strategies that enabled it to cater to a wider range of guests, including those in the leisure segment, leading the way in serving the rapidly growing Bleisure market. The company also owns Aura by Transcorp Hotels, a rapidly expanding digital platform for booking hotels, apartments, and experiences. Launched in 2021 as part of the company's asset-light strategy, Aura by Transcorp Hotels is helping to accelerate growth and expand into new markets. The platform currently offers over 5,000 rooms across different hotels and apartments nationwide, and the company is leveraging technology to drive further expansion. Transcorp Hotels Plc. Transcorp Hotels Plc is a subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, a diversified conglomerate with interests in the Power, Hospitality, and Oil & Gas sectors. Transcorp Hotels Plc was established in Nigeria on July 12, 1994, and is responsible for managing prestigious properties such as the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Transcorp Hotels Calabar, and Aura by Transcorp Hotels, an online booking platform for homes, hotels, and experiences. 20 | October 2023

21. Dupe Olusola is the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, which is considered to be the leading hospitality brand in Africa and is the proud owner of the award-winning Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja and Transcorp Hotels in Calabar. Before assuming her current role, she served as the Group Marketing Director at United Bank for Africa where she cherished working with an excellent team. Additionally, she held the position of Chief Executive Officer at Teragro Commodities Limited, a Nigeria-based agricultural company and the agribusiness subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (now Transnational Corporation Plc) which she was appointed to in 2014. worldsleaders.com | 21

22. Transcorp Hotels Plc works closely with various stakeholders and introduces innovative offers to improve demand while expanding its business. In 2024, the company is set to deliver a world-class event center at Transcorp Hilton Abuja, while also developing a new five- star hotel in the heart of Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria. With its commitment to innovation, technology, and customer satisfaction, Transcorp Hotels Plc is well- positioned to maintain its leadership position in the hospitality industry in Africa. Leading with Passion and Confidence Dupe is a dynamic, fearless, and joyful individual who savors life both in and outside of work. She believes in seizing every opportunity to learn and gain fresh experiences to become the best version of herself each day, reflecting her personal values of excellence, integrity, and kindness, as well as her family's values. Dupe is convinced that nothing is impossible and that there is always a way to accomplish any goal, no matter how difficult it may seem. She has a confident and determined attitude towards challenges and is always eager to build and maintain strong relationships. While she can come across as tough and straightforward at times, it is always for the greater good, as she refuses to settle for anything less than the best in all that she does. practice, team onboarding, and induction processes. These guiding principles are not limited to Transcorp Hotels Plc alone, as they are shared throughout the entire Transcorp Group. This has resulted in a strong culture of integrity and innovation, which has played a significant role in the company's ongoing growth and success. Success for Dupe Dupe recognizes that success is a subjective concept that varies from person to person. To her, success is all about striving to be the best version of oneself and constantly pursuing growth in all areas to achieve exceptional results. For her, achieving success has been about living a well- rounded life that encompasses social, emotional, mental, physical, and financial aspects. She has always been willing to break boundaries and challenge the norm, both individually and as part of a team, to meet and surpass set goals. Dupe also values being teachable and open-minded to new learning experiences, as she believes that anyone can impart valuable knowledge. Being authentic is equally essential to her, and she strives to remain true to herself and her values. With the support of her family and team, Dupe has accomplished a great deal, and she continues to set new goals for herself, aiming to attain even greater success. At Transcorp Hotels Plc, Dupe's role involves providing strategic direction for Transcorp Hotels, including developing strategies and advising leaders on how to achieve the company's goals. The company has cultivated a culture of excellence and enterprise, with motivated and self-driven employees who are supported with great working conditions, career progression opportunities, and new challenges to keep them motivated. Dupe finds joy in interacting with colleagues and family and seeing daily growth. Values to Maintain a Culture of Integrity Transcorp Hotels Plc's organizational culture is founded on three core values: excellence, execution, and enterprise, which are commonly referred to as the three Es. These values form the foundation of the company's beliefs and actions. At Transcorp Hotels Plc, the team strives for excellence by delivering real results through effective performance. It believes that enterprise is essential to innovation, and that integrity is key to executing with excellence, which involves ensuring that all stakeholders are committed to achieving the company's shared goal. Always Try to Learn New The advice from Dupe to aspiring leaders is that their team is there to provide support, and that their success is intertwined with the success of the team. To achieve success, they must continue to push boundaries and shatter any perceived limitations. They should be willing to embrace opportunities, even if they fear failure, as taking a chance is better than not trying at all. It's important to recognize that no one can accomplish everything alone, and networking and collaborating with others who share similar goals is key to achieving optimal growth. Developing strategic partnerships is also important for success. Transcorp Hotels Plc's core values are integral to its daily operations, and the company is committed to upholding them in all aspects of its business, including its standards of 22 | October 2023

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35. LILIAM M. LOPEZ Miami's Most Influential Executive Helping Business Leaders and Organizations to Achieve Constant Growth worldsleaders.com | 35

36. Liliam M. López, “Lily” President/CEO and founder of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC), is a highly accomplished individual who has dedicated her career to empowering and advocating for Hispanic communities. She has served in various leadership roles in organizations such as the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Spanish American League Against Discrimination, and the Alliance for Aging. Additionally, López is a sought-after motivational speaker and has been invited to speak at various events and commencement ceremonies. Through her work with the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, she has helped provide scholarships to financially disadvantaged Hispanic students. López has also been recognized for her leadership and invited to participate in a private roundtable discussion with President Barack Obama in Miami. She has served on numerous boards, including the Entrepreneurial Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's Regional Economic Information Network and the Board of Directors of WLRN Public Radio and Television. She currently serves on three prestigious boards: Adrienne Arsht Center of the Performing Arts Trust Board, the Miami Dade Beacon Council and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. López's dedication to her community and her impressive accomplishments make her a true leader and role model.She currently serves on five prestigious boards: different Mayors of Miami Dade County, and the City Keys to the City of Miami Beach presented by the Honorable Mayor David Dermer on June 20, 2002. For 10 years Lopez was the producer and host of a weekly television show, “Panorama con Liliam Lopez” that aired on WLRN Cable-Tap. The program highlighted the career of executives, elected officials, and entrepreneurs at the local, State and national levels. The pandemic required Lopez to pivot. She launched a digital show, "A Business Minute with Lily Lopez", which is featured on all social media platforms reaching over 23,000 businesses. South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SFLHCC) is a non- profit organization that was founded in 1994 with the goal of promoting business leadership, creating economic opportunities, and providing legislative advocacy for the Hispanic business community in South Florida. With a diverse population of approximately 70% Hispanics, Miami-Dade County serves as a gateway to the Americas and offers immense potential for companies to do business with people from different backgrounds and experiences. The SFLHCC provides opportunities for its members through local programs aimed at improving the economic condition of the Hispanic population. The organization has over 1,650 members and advocates for thousands of Hispanic businesses in Florida. It is recognized as one of the top five most influential Hispanic chambers in the country and one of the leading Hispanic business organizations in Florida. The SFLHCC is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization. The chamber serves as a platform to promote business leadership, create economic prospects, and provide legislative advocacy for the Hispanic business community in South Florida. Under Liliam's leadership, the SFLHCC has flourished into one of the most resilient Hispanic chambers in the United States, boasting a membership of over 1,650 individuals. Additionally, the SFLHCC Foundation has awarded more than $975,000 in scholarships to underprivileged students of Miami Beach Senior High School and Miami Liliam graduated from St. Thomas University with a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Political Science in 1988. Liliam M. Lopez has received numerous awards, she was recently awarded a Honorary Doctor degree in Humane Letters from St. Thomas University, 15 Proclamations from 36 | October 2023

37. Springs High School who are pursuing careers in the fields of Business and Hospitality. The Foundation's Education Enrichment Fellowship Program, which is a component of its efforts, has taken students to significant destinations such as Microsoft headquarters, Facebook, Comcast, Southwest Airlines, the nation's Capital, and other significant venues, in order to empower these young people. These initiatives contributed to the SFLHCC Foundation's recognition as a Champion of the Miami-Dade County Public School's Academy of Hospitality and Tourism. ceremonies, television appearances, and overseeing the organization's social media platforms. She also hosts a digital show called "Business Minute with Lily Lopez." Liliam finds the greatest joy in seeing the success of her organization. One of the most satisfying moments is observing the high attendance ranging from 200 to 400+ at the chamber luncheons held every month. Additionally, she feels a sense of accomplishment seeing her LinkedIn following reach over 16,000 followers. Liliam's happiness stems from the growth and success of the organization she founded with only four members. On Path of Successful Leader Liliam is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of her organization. Her duties include coordinating chamber luncheons, meetings, awards Liliam shares the significance of several critical attributes for a successful leader. Firstly, humility is a vital characteristic that a leader should possess. worldsleaders.com | 37

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39. Nadia Di Donato Crafting Timeless Elegance ? Immersive Experiences worldsleaders.com | 39

40. S tep into a world where design becomes an enchanting symphony of elegance, sophistication, and pure cleverness. At the heart of this captivating realm stands Nadia Di Donato, the Vice President and Creative Director at Liberty Entertainment Group. With her visionary approach, she breathes life into spaces, going beyond the ordinary and creating extraordinary experiences that ignite our senses and leave us craving for more. For Ms. Di Donato, design is not just about making things look pretty; it's about crafting an incredible journey that breaks boundaries and takes us on an unforgettable ride. With her unwavering belief in timeless elegance, she adds a unique touch to each project, ensuring that the design perfectly aligns with the purpose and vibe of the space. With more than three decades of experience under her belt, Ms. Di Donato has been an integral part of Liberty Entertainment Group since its very beginning in 1987. With her formal training in visual communications from Ryerson Polytechnic University, she's armed with an impeccable eye for detail and a deep understanding of how form and function come together harmoniously. But her artistic vision doesn't stop at the physical interiors alone. Ms. Di Donato understands that true design magic lies in seamlessly integrating multiple layers throughout the customer experience. From the carefully chosen art and furniture to the meticulously designed tableware, menu layouts, and even the stylish outfits, every single detail is thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere that stays etched in our memories. Through her close collaboration with the Liberty Group developers, each venue boasts its own distinct design approach, making it a true testament to Ms. Di Donato's meticulous attention to detail. She has single-handedly turned Liberty Entertainment Group facilities into the epitome of creative theming in the city, where every nook and cranny tells a unique story. 40 | October 2023

41. shift from 2D design to 3D design, coinciding with the revolutionary changes taking place within the design industry as a whole. These changes brought about opportunities for rapid innovation, which Ms. Di Donato eagerly embraced. Today, Ms. Di Donato responsibilities encompass the entire spectrum from conceptualization to implementation. She plays a crucial role in bringing her creative vision to life, orchestrating every step of the design process with meticulous attention to detail. The Company For over three decades the Liberty Entertainment Group, led by president & CEO, Nick Di Donato and vice president, creative director Nadia Di Donato, has been redefining Toronto's restaurants, nightlife, and special event experiences. Ms. Di Donato's Journey as a Creative Visionary Ms. Di Donato saw the world through a visual scope, leading her to believe that her career path was not a choice she made, but rather one that chose her. Initially starting in graphic design and gaining years of experience in print, her inherent creativity always shone through. Graduating from Toronto University with a degree in graphic design and visual communication, she took on the role of creative director for various publications, including Azure, a renowned interior design magazine in Canada. It was during this time that Ms. Di Donato developed a deep passion for the industry, appreciating its multiple facets. With a background in graphic design and an unwavering love for interiors, Ms. Di Donato possessed a distinct approach to spaces and venues, perceiving them as artistic and design palettes. She refused to adhere to the conventional limitations of construction, constantly pushing the boundaries and thinking beyond the norm. A pivotal moment in her journey occurred in 1996 when she joined Liberty Entertainment Group, a prominent player in the hospitality industry, as their creative director. This transition marked a worldsleaders.com | 41

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43. Rasha Al Danhani Transforming Hospitality in the Middle East omen have been making significant strides in the food and beverage industry, with more and more women taking leadership roles in the sector. Rasha Al Danhani is a woman who needs no introduction in the business world. Her impressive portfolio is proof of her determination and her ability to succeed in everything she puts her mind to. Rasha is the Chairperson of PappaRoti, the Owner and Founder of Brandnoise Creative Agency, Al Rasha Investments and The 1978 Suite. worldsleaders.com | 43

44. PappaRoti is a café brand known for the signature coffee-caramel buns. The café was introduced in the UAE in 2009 at the Dubai Mall. Originated in Malaysia the brand has gained immense popularity in the region. attention with its irresistible aroma. This encounter inspired her to start her own venture. Building a Beloved Brand in the UAE Rasha had always known that she had a natural aptitude for business and was eager to strike out on her own entrepreneurial path. However, finding the right product or concept to launch proved to be a challenge for her. Undeterred, she remained on the lookout for any intriguing ideas or opportunities, with a particular focus on the food and beverage industry. After all, she firmly believed that few things have the power to bring people as much happiness as good food. PappaRoti has carved a niche for itself in the market giving other cafes a tough competition. The brand has a loyal fan base that visit malls specially to sample the bun. The brand also contributes to strengthening the economy. The core values of the company are quality, customer service, attention to detail, maintaining a high level of hospitality, implementing sustainable practices, making a positive impact and being authentic. It was during a family vacation back in 2008 that Rasha's instincts led her to stumble upon a small kiosk located near a train station. Intrigued by the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kiosk, she decided to give the product a try. As soon as she tasted it, she knew that she had discovered something truly special, something that the UAE had been missing. Driven by her instincts and her belief in the product, Rasha wasted no time in reaching out to the owner and negotiating to bring the brand to the Middle East. From Corporate Career to Entrepreneurship After completing various entrepreneurship programs such as "Performance Management" and "Team Leading," Rasha earned her business management degree from Dubai Women's College. She kick- started her career in prominent companies like Emaar Properties and the Dubai Development and Investment Authority. Moreover, she gained valuable experience in both banking and real estate industries before embarking on her own entrepreneurial journey. Despite the challenges and uncertainties involved in launching a new venture, Rasha remained steadfast in her conviction that the PappaRoti brand would be a success in the UAE. Rasha was in search of a unique idea to introduce in the UAE. During her holiday trip to Malaysia in 2008, she stumbled upon PappaRoti, a small kiosk by the metro station that caught her 44 | October 2023

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49. THERESA MCLARNEY Leading B2B Travel Marketplace for Accommodations around the world HProTravel is a top-notch B2B marketplace in the hospitality industry worldwide, offering the swiftest access to unbeatable deals. Its associates benefit from a vast range of lodging choices, cutting-edge technology products, and round-the-clock customer service assistance. The company has created a user-friendly platform that provides an easy and seamless experience to users across multiple languages and currencies. It aims to make its services accessible to everyone. worldsleaders.com | 49

50. Product: -1M Accommodations, 70k Destinations, 80+ Suppliers & Direct Inventory Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World's Leaders and Theresa McLarney Head of Sales and Business Development, North America, at Go Global Travel Group’s HProTravel. What are your responsibilities as the Founder/CEO of the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine? I am not the founder or CEO of the company, but I hold a highly regarded position in a very competitive market that is an integral part of the company's strategic growth plan. My responsibilities include everything from strategy to customer service and all things in between: employee onboarding, training, inspiration, and evaluation; identifying potential clients through sales calls, events, contracting, onboarding, and engagement; business analytics, reporting, and performance; processes and procedures; marketing, webinars, newsletters, and partnership marketing. It's like running my own business. I am responsible for our success in North America. The best part of my day is when a new client goes LIVE with their integration or makes their first booking on the portal, or when I get an email or a phone call from a client raving about their sales manager or thanking us for resolving an issue so quickly, and whenever I'm able to assist or support a colleague. Service & Support: -24/7/365 Customer Support, Dedicated Account Manager, Online SMART Ticketing System & Host/Sub-Agent Administration Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start? The technology behind HProTravel, comes from humble beginnings. Developed by the general manager of a small group of hotels to centralize the marketing, reservations, and operations of the properties, it was eventually purchased in 2021 by Go Global Travel, headquartered in Israel, and joins a portfolio of quality brands, such as Go Global Travel, Olympia Europe, Best Buy Travel, and more. Solutions: -Flexible Commission Tool, Book Now, Pay Later, Split/Multiple Payments , Multi-Currency/Language, Dynamic, RESTful API, Multi-Level Destination Structure, Super-Fast Stable & Secure Technology. What are the most important aspects of a company's culture? What principles do you believe in and how do you build this culture? Passion for the travel industry, for the work we do, for the customers we serve, and for one another. We are a global company with offices, personnel, clients, and vendors around the world. We are diverse, multi- cultural, and multi-lingual. We promote a work-life balance and family-first principles. We embody teamwork, open communication, and treating each other with respect. Keeping with its technology roots, HProTravel is the leading marketplace that seamlessly offers the fastest access to the most relevant, competitively priced hospitality products and solutions on a global scale. Offering 1,000,000 hotels and apartments in 70.000 destinations worldwide, including 10.000 direct contracts with individual hotels and 35.000 hotels coming from leading hotel chains. What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time? Start by listening and learning, asking questions, gathering information, and providing input. Seek understanding. Develop a plan and manage your time effectively. Celebrate successes. Engage people throughout the organization. Be grateful. What has made you successful? What do you value? I attribute my success to my ability to cultivate long-term relationships. My love of the travel industry and desire to make the world accessible to more people. I value my colleagues, my clients, my word, and my work. What is the significance of innovative ideas in the company? Innovation is at the core of our business. The travel industry is in constant flux, with new entrants, opportunities, and obstacles abounding. Being innovative and fostering change is both applauded and rewarded. Which are the major services of the company, and how does it get ahead of the competition? What value- added services does the company provide? We provide an aggregated supply of competitively priced, accommodations via both API integration and our website, www.hprotravel.com. Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes? Team processes, creating efficiencies, a clear objective, customer focus, and open communication. 50 | October 2023