The Power of Progress: 7 Takeaways from AHLA ForWard 2025

ForWard 2025 was more than just a conference—it was a celebration of progress, purpose, and the people shaping the future of hospitality. From the moment I arrived, there was unmistakable energy in the air—a shared reminder that this wasn’t just another industry event, but a milestone moment for our community.

Standing on stage to kick off ForWard 2025 as Chair of the ForWard Advisory Committee was nothing short of extraordinary—a full-circle moment I’ll always remember. Just seven years ago, I attended my first ForWard conference—back in 2018, with roughly 200 people in the room.

Fast forward to 2025: held for the first time in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, this year’s gathering broke records with nearly 1,000 passionate professionals coming together at the Hyatt Regency for a high-impact event centered on one defining theme: Power. Individual power, collective power, power in leadership, in voice, in community—and in the progress we’ve made together.

Every room radiated with energy and intention—meaningful conversations, powerful connections, and attendees showing up with purpose and presence.

Reflecting on two impactful days, here are seven insights that stood out to me:

1. The body knows before the brain. The quote, “There is more wisdom in your body than in your deepest philosophy,” by Friedrich Nietzsche echoed throughout the week, as personal intuition emerged as a resounding theme. I was reminded that clarity often doesn’t come from overthinking, but from trusting the quiet, grounded wisdom within. Intuition isn’t just a gut feeling—it’s experience, values, and truth speaking through the body before the mind catches up.

2. Change is a choice. Regan Walsh, bestselling author and executive coach, offered a sharp insight: “What you are not changing, you are choosing.” A simple but profound reminder that inaction is itself a decision. She challenged us to reflect on areas where we might be settling out of fear, habit, or comfort—and to embrace the possibility of choosing differently.

3. Feel it, then lead with it. “Use emotions—don’t just have them.” Samara Ba, Founder & CEO of Permissions Inc., reminded us that emotional awareness isn’t just about identifying feelings—it’s about channeling them into purposeful action. A powerful invitation to lead not despite emotion, but because of it.

4. Power is claimed, not given. Strategy leader Lamiaa Daif’s session left a lasting impression. Two lines in particular struck a chord: “Power isn’t given. It’s taken.” and “Authentic leadership isn’t just about being yourself; it’s about creating space for others to be themselves.” Her message resonated deeply with those navigating the tension between authority and authenticity—empowering us to lead with intention and redefine power on our own terms.

5. The biggest risks are internal. “The biggest risks aren’t just external—they’re internal,” shared Princess Castleberry, keynote speaker and risk strategist. Her session, Live, Lead, and Build Leverage™: Skills for Growth and Resilience, reminded us that challenges like self-doubt, impostor syndrome, and fear of judgment are often the most significant roadblocks. The opportunity lies in how we respond—with self-awareness and intention. That’s where transformation begins.

6. Don’t quit—rest. On tough days, Jennifer Hyman, CEO & Founder of Rent the Runway, returns to advice from a mentor: “There are only two reasons why a founder leaves their company or stops working toward their dreams ... either you stop believing in it, or you’re tired.” That wisdom applies to all of us. When you feel stuck, ask yourself: Do I still believe in this? Or am I just exhausted? If it’s the latter, the solution may be rest—not resignation.

7. Dream jobs are built, not found.Nicole Lynn, powerhouse sports agent and trailblazer, reminded us that “Your dream job doesn’t happen with overnight success.” It takes vision, grit, and courage to bet on yourself—and to keep betting, especially when the odds feel long.

ForWard 2025 reminded us of the power we each carry—and what’s possible when we bring it forward together. The conversations, connections, and courage on display lit a spark that I know will keep burning long after the final session ended. Let’s keep the momentum going!!

Sarah Dinger is EVP Franchise Operations at My Place Hotels of America, LLC and Chair of the ForWard Advisory Committee for the AHLA Foundation.