Emerging Leader of the Year

* There must be a minimum of three entrants in a category for all entrants to progress to the judging phase.

* Winner is eligible to enter the AHA National Awards (Hotel Industry Rising Star) 

This category is designed to recognise a hotel employee (aged 26 or under) who has displayed professional excellence within the industry.  This individual award is judged on the development undertaken by the individual, commitment to the industry, ambition and career aspirations.

To qualify for nomination the employee must be:

• Been employed for no less than six months prior to nomination.
• Be nominated by his/her employer.
• Available for a Zoom interview
• Aged 26 or under in May 2025

Documents required for submission at nomination:

• Nominees resume including current qualifications, training courses attended, awards gained.
• Headshot of the nominee on a white backdrop or in their work environment. We like to see smiles!
• Optional extras: A written submission from the employer detailing why this employee is being nominated, accompanying documents such as guest comments, references, articles or certificates.

Judges will be assessing the following points:

• Self-presentation, personality and professional attitude 
• Demonstrated knowledge, expertise, interest, involvement and ambitions in the hotel industry
• Examples of hotel education, formal and informal learning and development
• Employee portfolio (e.g., photographs, personal job-related awards, depth and breadth of experience etc)
• Contribution back to the community or industry
• Diversity in work history and experience