Fireside Chat: Centering Black Women in Travel & Hospitality

Some conversations stay with you long after they end.

Our recent fireside chat created space for exactly that kind of dialogue — honest, reflective and deeply inspiring. We were honored to be joined by Erica Cary, Vice President, Global HR Business Consultant at Hilton and Carolyne Truelove, Vice President, Customer and Operations Excellence at American Airlines, who shared their personal journeys into travel, the realities of navigating leadership as Black women and what authentic leadership looks like in practice.

Together, they explored mentorship, representation and the difference between performative moments and meaningful progress — offering grounded insight on how leaders and organizations can create real change. The conversation also highlighted the responsibility of lifting others as you rise, and the hope they carry for the next generation of Black women entering our industry.

From powerful personal stories to forward-looking perspectives on the future of travel and hospitality, this session is a must-watch for anyone committed to building more inclusive, connected workplaces.

If you missed the live discussion — or want to revisit its wisdom — we invite you to watch the full recording.

Take time to listen, learn and be inspired — and join us as we continue shaping a more equitable future for travel and hospitality.

Watch the full fireside chat now.