Empowering Women in Hospitality: Maryland Travel and Tourism Week Conference Celebrates Women in the Industry

Women in the hospitality industry gathered at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore for the first Women of Hospitality Conference during Maryland Travel and Tourism Week. The event aimed to empower and support women in a male-dominated industry.

Cori Grafer, event manager with the Maryland Restaurant Association, expressed the importance of building a community for women to thrive in the hospitality sector. The conference covered topics such as femininity in the workplace, entrepreneurship, social media, and diversity.

Amanda Mack, CEO of Crust by Mack, shared her journey of overcoming challenges in the industry and recently opening Baltimore’s first Black woman-owned bakery. She emphasized the importance of mentorship and perseverance in achieving dreams.

With Maryland attracting 43.5 million visitors in 2022, participants highlighted the economic impact of the tourism industry. The conference provided a platform for networking, learning, and inspiring women to strengthen existing businesses and create new opportunities in Baltimore’s restaurant scene.

Participants like Rhuby Toussaint and Nancy Poznak found the event beneficial for making connections and gaining valuable insights. The hope is to encourage more women to enter the hospitality industry and contribute to its growth and success in Baltimore.