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International Women’s Day 2026 is centred on the theme 'Give To Gain', a campaign encouraging generosity, collaboration and reciprocity. The idea is that when individuals and organisations actively support others by sharing knowledge, opportunities or networks, the benefits multiply. Creating space for women to progress ultimately strengthens businesses, teams and the wider industry.
Hospitality is an industry built on collaboration and shared experience, and many senior women across the sector see the principle of giving support as essential to building stronger leadership pipelines. To mark International Women’s Day, the Independent Hotel Show asked a number of leaders in the hotel industry to reflect on what the theme means in practice.
Giving to gain in hospitality
For Serena von der Heyde, Owner of Your Place Hotels, the message resonates with her own experience of navigating the industry earlier in her career.
“I strongly believe in the power women in hospitality have to support one another. Early in my career, I didn’t offer help as much as I could have, largely because I felt I didn’t have enough to give - imposter syndrome held me back. Over time, I realised that support doesn’t have to be monumental; even small, incremental gestures make a difference.
"It can be as simple as taking a moment to ask about someone’s career aspirations, or sharing insights over a coffee about what a next role might involve. When women can see what’s possible and understand the steps required, they can plan, grow, and gain confidence. Showing genuine interest and belief in another woman can nurture self-belief - and sometimes, even a small investment of time is enough to help someone thrive.”
Brenda Collin, Executive Vice President Europe at Preferred Hotels & Resorts, believes the campaign reflects the collaborative nature of hospitality and the importance of sharing experience and opportunity.
“The Give To Gain messaging resonates with the spirit of hospitality because our industry is fundamentally built on generosity, connection, and shared success. When we invest in one another through mentorship, advocacy, and opportunity, we create stronger teams, more innovative businesses, and more inclusive communities. Supporting women at every stage of their careers by sharing knowledge, opening networks, and championing their achievements helps cultivate future leaders and ensures the industry continues to benefit from diverse perspectives.
"When companies intentionally invest in people and partnerships, the return is greater engagement, creativity, and resilience across the sector. The positive impact also extends far beyond the workplace - to our guests, our communities, and the future of the industry.”
For Eljesa Saciri, General Manager of The Mandrake, the theme highlights the importance of leadership that prioritises collaboration over competition.
““Give To Gain” feels especially powerful in 2026. In a world that often feels competitive and scarce, choosing reciprocity is a bold act. Giving is not about losing ground. It’s about widening the table.
"When we mentor without expecting something immediate in return, when we open doors instead of guarding them, when we share credit instead of hoarding it, we create ecosystems where women can step forward with confidence. And the truth is, when women thrive in hospitality, our businesses thrive. Our teams become stronger. Our culture becomes healthier. Our guest experience becomes richer. It is not merely ideology, it's good leadership.”
Elena Attanasio, Portfolio Director for the Independent Hotel Show, says the campaign aligns closely with the collaborative nature of the independent hotel sector.
“Give To Gain is a useful reminder that progress in hospitality often comes from sharing ideas and supporting one another. Across the independent hotel sector in particular, leaders regularly learn from peers, mentors and colleagues who are willing to share experience and advice. When people take the time to open networks, offer guidance or champion emerging talent, it helps build a stronger and more resilient industry.”
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the principle behind Give To Gain offers a straightforward message: sharing knowledge, experience and opportunity benefits not just individuals, but the wider sector.
Learn more about International Womens Day at internationalwomensday.com
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