To mark the 25th anniversary of the Hospitality Awards, the Best Innovative Social Responsibility Initiative category highlights pioneering social responsibility initiatives in the hospitality sector. The award recognises innovative programmes that have a tangible and positive impact on communities, employees and visitors, and contribute to a more inclusive, equitable and responsible industry.
A category celebrating innovative community involvement
This award recognises initiatives that combine diversity, inclusion and good governance, with effective management practices and measurable results.
The aim is to show how the hotel industry can be a lever for social change by integrating ambitious programmes that promote strong values and benefit all stakeholders.
High-impact social commitments
Winner 2023 – RiseHY : Inviting Youth to Reach Higher – Hyatt
Hyatt is committed to providing opportunities for 10,000 disengaged young people, aged 16 to 24, via the RiseHY programme launched in 2018. This initiative aims to integrate these young people into the economy through vocational training and personalised support. In France, Hyatt is working with the association ‘Les Déterminés’ to train and hire these talents, offering a sustainable route to employment in the hotel industry.
This programme, which has already seen more than 70 participants trained with an above-average retention rate, creates a lasting positive impact, not only for the young people concerned but also for their families and the Hyatt teams, strengthening cohesion and pride within the company.
Winner 2022 – Hotels with a Heart – NH Hotel Group
The NH Hotel Group’s Hotels with a Heart initiative, launched in 2005, offers supportive accommodation to families of sick children who have to travel far from home. In partnership with several NGOs, this initiative has provided more than 28,500 free nights in various countries, providing valuable emotional and logistical support.
In Spain, this programme cooperates with foundations such as Menudos Corazones, Make a Wish and Josep Carreras, creating a unique solidarity network involving employees, associations and establishments. This initiative embodies the Group’s deep human commitment to supporting vulnerable populations with dignity and compassion.
Finalist 2024 – Building Bridges – Empowering Communities – IHCL
IHCL illustrates its cross-functional commitment to society through its PAATHYA programme, which aims to train more than 15,000 disadvantaged young people, promote the social inclusion of artisans, women and people with disabilities, and support the conservation of cultural heritage.
The company relies on solid partnerships, inclusive micro-enterprise projects and an extensive volunteer programme involving more than 90,000 hours a year. In this way, IHCL is actively contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, sustainably improving the living conditions of local communities while reinforcing its corporate social responsibility.
Why apply for 2025?
This category is a unique opportunity to highlight your social contribution and show that the hotel industry can be a driving force for inclusion and equity.
By applying, you are affirming your commitment to making a positive difference in your environment and inspiring lasting change in our industry.
Your social initiative can transform the hotel industry of tomorrow. Seize the opportunity and apply now.
