Meet our Advisory Board Members: Hamza Durrani
The opportunity to join our Advisory Board is just one of the benefits of taking part in our leadership development programmes. We recently sat down with Hamza Durrani, Area Manager at Revolution and Ethnic Future Leaders graduate. We asked about his insights about the EFL and his Board role.
Tell us about your experience on our EFL Programme?
My experience on the EFL Programme was transformative. It provided me with a platform to develop leadership skills while focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by ethnic minorities in the hospitality industry. The programme exposed me to valuable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities that have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.
How do the learnings from the EFL programme add to the tools and confidence required in stepping into your Board role?
The EFL Programme equipped me with essential tools for leadership, including effective communication, cultural awareness, and strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion. These learnings have significantly bolstered my confidence in stepping into my role on the Advisory Board. I am now better prepared to advocate for ethnic diversity and equality in the hospitality workplace.
What does your appointment mean to you, and what are your personal goals for your appointment?
My appointment to the Advisory Board for WIHTL as an ethnic future leader signifies a profound commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the hospitality sector. My personal goals for this appointment include actively contributing to the Board's mission to promote ethnic equality, breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups, and ensuring that diverse voices are heard and valued within the industry.
In your new role as a Board Member, how does it feel to be working alongside senior leaders within this sector?
Working alongside senior leaders in the hospitality sector is an incredible opportunity to influence change. It's inspiring to collaborate with individuals who have extensive industry knowledge and experience. This partnership allows me to bring a fresh perspective and drive positive change for ethnic minorities within the sector.
How are you planning on building a working relationship with other Board Members?
I plan to build strong working relationships with fellow Board Members through active participation in meetings and networking events. I will seek opportunities for one-on-one conversations to better understand their viewpoints and expertise. Open and respectful communication, aligned with our commitment to ethnic diversity and inclusion, will be the foundation of these relationships.
What do you hope to contribute to Board discussions?
In Board discussions, I aim to bring a unique perspective on ethnic diversity and inclusion in the hospitality industry. I will contribute by sharing insights from my experiences and the knowledge gained from the EFL Programme. Additionally, I'll actively engage in strategic planning, decision-making, and initiatives aimed at advancing our mission of promoting ethnic equality.
What kind of support have you had from your colleagues, mentors, or line managers regarding your appointment?
I have been fortunate to receive strong support from colleagues, mentors, and line managers regarding my appointment to the Advisory Board. They have provided encouragement, guidance, and resources to help me excel in this role. Their support reinforces the importance of ethnic diversity and inclusion in our industry and motivates me to make a meaningful impact in my new position.
What challenges do you foresee as a Board Member?
Challenges may include addressing biases and stereotypes, overcoming resistance to change within the industry, and ensuring that our initiatives lead to meaningful and lasting impact. Balancing the advocacy for ethnic diversity with collaboration with all stakeholders can also be challenging. However, I am committed to working with the Board to overcome these obstacles and drive progress.
The Ethnic Future Leaders Programme
The Ethnic Future Leaders Programme (EFL) aims to improve ethnic diversity in leadership through identifying and investing in existing high potential employees from diverse ethnic backgrounds supporting their progression into more senior roles across Hospitality, Travel, Leisure and Retail.
Learn more about our development programmes.