ATLANTA, GA (April 16, 2026) — The AHLA Foundation recognized outstanding leaders advancing women in hospitality during FORWARD/26, its flagship annual event, this week in Atlanta. The Foundation presented the annual Paving the Way Award to Sarai Jacko of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, and the inaugural Ally of the Year Award to Justin Knight, CEO & Director of Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc.

“These honorees reflect the kind of leadership required to move this work forward: intentional, accountable, and focused on results,” said Kevin Carey, President & CEO of the AHLA Foundation. “It was a privilege to present these awards and recognize their incredible contributions to our industry. Their impact is helping to create more pathways for women to succeed and lead in hospitality. By championing inclusion, mentoring the next generation, and bridging gaps, they are helping to build stronger teams and a more competitive, resilient industry.”

The AHLA Foundation presented Sarai Jacko, Regional Director of Training and Development, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts with the FORWARD: Paving the Way Award, which honors a trailblazing woman in the industry who opens doors and creates opportunities for other women. Jacko’s contagious energy and passion, and gift for making people feel seen and valued makes her a natural choice for this award. She mentors young women through the Salvation Army and offers voice lessons as a way of paying it forward. For Jacko, seeing the confidence, clarity and inspiration the women have when they transform on stage hits home and reaffirms her passion and purpose to lead by example. Jacko also championed an TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) immigration training for her colleagues that combines technical knowledge with her trademark compassion, clearing confusion for employees who felt unsure about their place in the hotel.

“In hospitality, our greatest legacy is the people we lift up along the way. I am proud to be part of a profession where we open doors for others and create opportunities for those who will come after us,” said Jacko. “I am truly honored and deeply grateful to receive the Paving the Way Award.”

The AHLA Foundation also presented its inaugural FORWARD Ally of the Year Award to Justin Knight, CEO and Director of Apple Hospitality REIT, in recognition of his demonstrated commitment to advancing women in senior leadership roles. The Ally of the Year Award acknowledges leaders who take intentional, measurable action to create equitable pathways to leadership. With Knight at the helm, Apple Hospitality REIT’s executive team is comprised of 50% women, reflecting an understanding that strong representation is a strategic priority tied to business performance, innovation, and long-term growth. Knight, a former AHLA Board chair, has been instrumental in fostering a corporate culture where women are empowered to lead at the highest levels, setting an example for the broader hospitality and real estate investment communities.  

“I’m honored to accept this award on behalf of the entire Apple Hospitality REIT team,” said Knight. “Championing women in leadership requires commitment from leaders at every level, and I’m proud of Apple Hospitality’s dedication to building an organization where talent rises regardless of gender. Empowering our people is an important part of our overall strategy, and we’re proud to lead by example. We strongly believe that fostering a corporate culture where women are not only represented but empowered to lead at the highest levels is not only the right thing to do, it strengthens the entire industry and is integral to driving long-term value. The most successful organizations have male leaders who are active champions, not passive supporters. I’m incredibly grateful for the women on our team and their contributions to our industry.”

FORWARD/26, part of the AHLA Foundation’s broader FORWARD initiative to build community, develop leaders, and create game-changing events, convened more than 1,000 hospitality professionals from across the country for two days of impactful programming, bold conversations, and meaningful connections focused on advancing women in the industry.

To learn more about FORWARD, visit www.ahlafoundation.org/forward.