In an industry often defined by hierarchy and brand prestige, Devipshita Gautam, Founder and Chairperson of the Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP), is rewriting the narrative. Her mission is clear: to create a platform where young professionals, students, and specially-abled individuals are not just seen, but celebrated. Since its inception in 2010, AHP has grown into a nationwide movement that champions inclusivity, recognition, and continuous growth. In this exclusive conversation, she shares the inspiration behind AHP, the impact of its Annual Awards, and her vision for a more equitable and empowered hospitality community.
What inspired you to start the Association of Hospitality Professionals, and how has it evolved since its inception?
The inspiration came from a deep desire to create a platform exclusively for young hospitality professionals – a place where they could not only network but also showcase their skills without fear of judgment. In an industry that often measures worth by years of experience, I wanted to give a voice to fresh talent and ensure they felt valued. This also became the foundation for including specially-abled professionals, as I believe everyone deserves a fair chance to shine. What started as a small initiative has now grown into a nationwide community that celebrates inclusivity and nurtures emerging talent.
How would you describe AHP’s core mission and vision in one sentence?
Our mission is to empower the hospitality industry through true inclusivity – ensuring that everyone, from students and fresh graduates to specially-abled professionals, is given equal opportunities to grow, excel, and be recognised for their talent and dedication.
What gaps in the hospitality industry did you see that led to forming this association?
There was a glaring disconnect between hospitality institutes and the actual industry. Fresh graduates often felt lost, unsure of where they fit in, and unsupported in the early years of their careers. From the day they complete their course to the first three years in the field, many young hoteliers feel invisible. I wanted AHP to be that bridge, offering guidance, recognition, and a sense of belonging right from the start.
Over the years, how has AHP’s membership base and community engagement grown?
We began in 2010 with just 12 culinary participants. Today, we are a thriving network of over 400 young professionals across multiple hospitality domains. The journey has gone from small, local initiatives to national-level programs that unite people across cities. The sense of community has only grown stronger, and every year brings new energy and ideas.
Could you walk us through the concept behind the AHP Annual Awards?
The AHP Annual Awards were born out of gratitude. We were fortunate to receive immense support from hospitality organisations in terms of participants, juries, and venues, so we decided to create a platform where these organisations could nominate their best people. The awards recognise excellence across every level – from seasoned leaders to new talent – celebrating dedication, innovation, and service excellence while inspiring the next generation of hoteliers. Over the years, it has grown into a pan-India celebration, telling the human stories behind every success and showing that awards are about much more than just trophies.
What makes these awards different from other hospitality recognitions in the country?
While many awards focus mainly on senior leaders or big brands, AHP’s approach is far more inclusive. We recognise students, frontline staff, trainers, and industry leaders alike. Our judging process is transparent and merit-based, ensuring that recognition is earned solely through talent, dedication, and impact. From specially-abled winners to the introduction of the Hall of Fame Awards, we’ve made sure the platform reflects the true diversity and spirit of the hospitality community.
How do the awards contribute to raising industry standards and motivating professionals?
Recognition has a way of elevating standards. When someone’s hard work is acknowledged, it sets a new benchmark – both for them and for others. Through these awards, we uncover and celebrate unsung heroes whose journeys inspire others to raise their own game, thereby lifting the industry as a whole.
AHP focuses not just on recognition but also on professional growth. How do you balance both aspects?
For us, recognition and growth go hand-in-hand. We host symposiums, forums, and knowledge-sharing platforms to help members learn and grow professionally. When you genuinely care for your community, it’s easy to balance appreciation for their achievements with opportunities for continuous development.
Tell us about the inclusivity aspect undertaken by AHP.
Inclusivity is not just a principle; it’s a personal mission. Specially-abled professionals have shown us how powerful silence, smiles, and determination can be. By integrating them into our events and recognising their achievements, we are not just giving them a platform, we are also reshaping how the industry views talent, ability, and contribution.
In your opinion, what are the top three challenges currently facing hospitality professionals in India?
First, there’s a lack of proper counselling and motivation at the start of a career, with too many young professionals misled by inaccurate information. Second, low salaries and pay disparities in the first five years make it difficult to stay motivated. Third, discouragement from within the industry itself can be demoralising, which affects retention and passion for the profession.
How is AHP addressing skill development, leadership training, and continuous learning?
In hospitality, learning never stops. Skilling programs today allow professionals to focus on targeted areas, which makes them more precise and confident about their goals – but they require commitment to maintain that focus. Leadership is not a title; it’s a journey. At AHP, we encourage members to see leadership as an ongoing process that’s built through lifelong learning.
Sustainability and innovation are hot topics in hospitality today. How does AHP incorporate these into its programs and awards?
As an environmentalist, I believe that even small, everyday actions can add up to make a big impact. Something as simple as using leftover drinking water for plants can contribute to conservation. We highlight and reward organisations that adopt sustainable practices, showing that environmental responsibility and innovation can go hand-in-hand in our industry.
What’s your long-term vision for the annual awards and the association over the next five years?
I dream of one day bringing the global hospitality community together on the AHP platform. Over the next five years, we want to keep finding and honouring more unsung heroes, giving them the recognition, love, and support they deserve, while also inspiring others to embrace inclusivity and excellence.
What advice would you give to young hospitality professionals aiming for excellence?
Think smart and work with purpose. Develop strong skills, stay humble, and focus on becoming a true leader who uplifts others. Always support the next generation, make them feel secure, and create an environment where they can succeed and thrive.
How can the industry work together to create a stronger, more skilled workforce?
It starts with shifting from “me” to “us.” By ending unnecessary comparisons, embracing change, and focusing on collective growth, we can build an industry that supports and uplifts its members. Even small acts of collaboration and support can have a ripple effect, leading to long-term, positive transformation.
