As we commemorate Black History Month
2025, we reflect on this year’s theme, "African Americans and Labor,"
a tribute to the profound contributions of Black workers throughout history.
From the foundational role of African Americans in shaping industries to their
continued impact on business and culture, this theme underscores the resilience
and dedication of Black professionals across all
sectors—especially within travel and hospitality.
Honoring
the Legacy of African American Labor
Black History Month is more than a moment
of reflection—it is a call to recognize the individuals who have shaped and
continue to influence the fabric of the American workforce. African Americans
have been integral to the development of travel and hospitality, from the
Pullman porters who set new standards for service in rail travel to modern-day
executives who break barriers and set new benchmarks for excellence. The
commitment, leadership, and innovation of Black professionals have enriched our
industry and the travel experience for people worldwide.
Celebrating
Trailblazers in Travel and Hospitality
In honor of Black History Month, we take
this opportunity to recognize African American industry leaders whose
contributions shape and elevate the travel and hospitality landscape. These
professionals, several of whom serve on Northstar
Travel Group’s Advisory Board and industry panels, represent the best in
leadership, service, and vision.
Among the North Star Travel Group
Advisory Board are:
- Belvin Baldwin II – Founder of Showtime
Travel, specializing in luxury vacations for professionals.
- Debra Hines Brown – CEO of SmartBird World
Travel, curating immersive global travel experiences.
- Shawn Cole – Vice President of Global Sales at
Delta Air Lines, a champion of equity and inclusion.
- Prem Devadas – President of Salamander Hotels
& Resorts, oversees the company’s
development and management of several iconic luxury properties.
- Valerie Dorsey – Franchise owner, travel
advisor, champion for diversity in her life’s work and industry thought leader.
- Jazzmine Douse – Director of National Accounts
at AmaWaterways, visionary and pioneer in advocating industry-first inclusive
experiences.
- Shirnett Fleet – Chief Marketing Officer of
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, leading innovative global marketing in luxury
river cruising.
- Stephanie M. Jones – Founder of the Cultural
Heritage Economic Alliance, advocates for the advancement of cultural tourism.
- Margie Jordan – Owner of Jordan Executive
Travel, specializing in creating culturally immersive
experiences.
- Kier V.B. Matthews – Managing Director, Global
Luxury Sales at On Location Experiences, a renowned industry leader known for
driving luxury travel growth.
- David van Ness – Vice President at All-Travel,
is a respected leader, voice, and visionary who serves on several prestigious
industry boards.
- Laurence Pinckney – President and CEO of
Zenbiz Travel, an industry powerhouse celebrated for curating cultural
international events globally.
- Denella Ri’chard – Award-winning Executive
Producer and Host of the nationally syndicated television series Traveling With Denella Ri’chard,
industry veteran, advocate for cultural exchange and author of Traveling Grace.
- Stephen Scott – CEO of Travel Hub 365, a
respected leader in technology and innovation within corporate and luxury
travel services.
- Tyronne Stoudemire – SVP of Global Diversity,
Equity & Inclusion at Hyatt Hotels, global DEI visionary, and author of Diversity Done Right.
- Cory Wallace – National Account Manager at
Celebrity Cruises, industry leader and advocate for giving back to the
community.
- Sanya Weston – CEO of Your Premier Travel
Service Group and Founder of Young People Global Edge, mentoring the next
generation of Black travel professionals.
Each of these leaders exemplifies
excellence and dedication, setting a precedent for the future of travel and
hospitality. Their efforts not only drive industry success but also inspire
emerging professionals to pursue careers in our industry.
Building
Legacies for the Future
The legacy of African American
contributions to the American workforce extends far beyond history books—it
actively shapes the future. By mentoring young professionals, advocating for inclusivity,
and fostering innovation, today's trailblazers are laying the foundation for
the next generation.
As we celebrate Black History Month and
honor the contributions of African Americans in the travel and hospitality
industry, let’s continue to embrace a “global culture of belonging,”
recognizing that inclusion inspires innovation and paves the way for collective
success.
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