Former Best Western president and CEO David Kong has
launched a non-profit organization to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in
the travel and hospitality industry. DEI Advisors will concentrate on
cultivating potential industry leaders through personal empowerment.
According to a release, the organization will begin by
publishing interviews and conversations between Kong and a variety of industry
leaders, who have overcome obstacles and challenges to read their personal
goals. The material will address topics like overcoming conscious and unconscious
bias, feeling comfortable in seeking advancement, how to triumph over structural
barriers, the importance of establishing professional networks and mentors,
finding strength in the face of adversity and better integrating work and life.
“I formed DEI Advisors as a non-profit organization to
collect and share insights and learnings from industry leaders,” said Kong, the
sole founder and principal of the organization. “While many companies are doing
wonderful work in the areas of DEI, individuals must also be responsible—and feel
empowered—for their own personal growth and career aspirations. Essentially, we
aiming to prepare future leaders in the industry for the driver seat of their
own journey.”
The company will distribute its initial interviews
and material via social media, as well as on its own website.