Meet our Youth Council

The Institute’s Youth Council are a vibrant group of young professionals at the start of their hospitality careers, poised to become the leaders of tomorrow

Since 2021, they have provided valuable insights, helping us evolve the future of the Institute while helping to inspire and support thousands of young people to choose hospitality as a career.

IoH Youth Council Chair Katariina Reissaar MIH and Vice Chair Marco De Simone MIH interview our IoH President The Rt. Hon. The Viscount Thurso FIH MI about what achieving Chartered Status for the Institute would mean to our members, and the hospitality industry.

Follow the link to access the webinar

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 Chair – Bradley Dorrington AIH

After jumping into hospitality in my working life, I completely fell in love with the versatility and challenges that we face every day. Meeting guests, getting to know them and their journeys, sharing stories and memories whilst forging new connections and futures is just one of the many things I love about this industry.

After completing the Concord Hotel Management Training Scheme, I launched The Wine Cellar BSE in 2022, a relaxed wine bar in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. In 2024, I was recognised in the Harpers Wine & Spirits’ List – 30 under 30 and won an Acorn Award the same year.

I joined the IoH to share networks and connections with other industry professionals whilst ensuring that we are promoting the positive pathways in our industry and supporting one another throughout the process. In my role I aim to help grow the visibility of the IoH to younger members and the next generation of our beloved industry.

Current Role: Director and Co-Owner of The Wine Cellar BSE, UK

Favourite Quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts” – Sir Winston Churchill

Vice Chair – Lizzie Grundy AIH

My hospitality journey started at a young age, having parents who worked in the industry, I grew up immersed in a hospitality environment. I quickly learnt in my working life that I enjoy working with people and making people happy. This led me to complete a BSc in International Hospitality Management at the University of Surrey.

I joined the IoH to meet like-minded hospitality people who share the same passion and love for the industry as myself. Through being part of the IoH Youth Council, I’d like to help the next generation of hospitality professionals enter the industry and thrive in their careers as we see hospitality develop and change for the better.

Current role: Senior Accounts Assistant at Pennyhill Park Hotel, Surrey, UK

Favourite quote: “Positivity is contagious”

Sian Rann MIH

I am a Falmouth University graduate with five years’ experience in live events and luxury hospitality. My passion for meeting people and the hospitality industry prompted me to join the IoH.

Being an avid learner, I completed several training courses during the 2020/1 pandemic, including a Mental Health First Aid course and a Legal Secretaries Diploma. As an AIH council member I hope to inspire more young people, women and those with mental health diagnosis to pursue careers within hospitality.

I joined the IoH for various reasons. It visibly champions mental health and promotes camaraderie. Both crucial for the longevity of our industry. It allows me to add value to one of the most fun and vibrant industries in the world and meet some incredible professionals who are generous with their wisdom and advice.

As I am also part of the IoH’s Mentor Me programme, Rob Hood, my mentor embodies the values that the Institute stands for; generosity, knowledge and kindness.

Current role: Multi-Hotel Revenue Manager – Accor, London

Favourite quote: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” – Mary Oliver

Marlyn Brunke AIH 

Sofia Mayr AIH

Born in a small region in northern Italy heavily reliant on tourism, I have been passionate about the hospitality industry since I was a little girl. I was always fascinated by the fact that while I was on holiday, there were people around me working hard to make my and other guests’ stays perfect.

I entered the industry at 14 when I decided to attend a vocational high school for Tourism and Hospitality studies, during which, I was working part-time in different restaurants and hotels in the area. I then moved to the UK to join the University of Surrey to study International Hospitality and Tourism Management as a Bachelor’s Degree when I decided to enrol in the first one, and then a second Sommelier course in London to consolidate my wine knowledge. I worked part-time in a restaurant, and, among many other things, I joined the Institute of Hospitality in my first year of university.

I was amazed by the inclusivity and diversity of the Institute and impressed by the many new things I managed to learn from wonderful people I was lucky enough to meet. I joined the IoH and its Youth Council to be able to support new and young talent coming into hospitality, especially international students like myself, and help them find their path and passion in our amazing industry.

Current role: Cluster Revenue Manager at Hilton, London

Favourite quote: “I am who I am today because of the choices I made yesterday” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Harsh Sodhani AIH

Born in India, I embarked on my hospitality journey at 18. My professional wanderlust led me to live and work in three diverse countries, igniting a passion for connecting with people and unravelling their unique tales wherever I roamed. My work took me from the heart of Kuala Lumpur, working in operations with Hilton, back to my homeland in India, where I contributed to my family’s hospitality enterprise before starting an MSc in International Hotel Management at the University of Surrey. Before returning to the Hilton in London to explore different facets of the business.

Hospitality is my joy; it’s the source of my inner contentment. The simple act of making someone happy through genuine connections is its essence, and it fuels my spirit. Now, as a proud IoH Youth Council member, my focus remains to infuse the industry with fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and unwavering support for emerging talents. This opportunity humbles me, and I’m wholeheartedly committed to learning and making a lasting impact. Let’s embark on this exhilarating journey together, brightening the future of hospitality, one memorable connection at a time.

Current Role: Cluster Sales Manager,  The Clermont Hotel, London

Favourite Quote: “If you don’t ask, the answer is always no!”

Daniele Ferraioli AIH #imin

My passion for hospitality was instilled in me by my parents, whose dedication and enthusiasm for the industry inspired me from an early age. Their influence nurtured the core values I carry in all aspects of my life: humility, commitment, and a relentless drive for growth. These principles underpin my professional aspirations to build a thriving career in luxury hospitality. I am dedicated to advancing the industry’s innovation and excellence while preserving its cherished traditions and esteemed reputation.

I joined the Institute during university where the IoH’s extensive library tools were instrumental in completing my dissertation in hospitality management. Since then, the IoH has continued to inspire me, offering a supportive community that upholds the highest standards.

Current role: Night Manager, Hotel Café Royal, London

Favourite Quote: “Success is going from failure to failure without a loss of enthusiasm.” – Winston Churchill

Maevelline Umayam AIH 

Current position: Meetings Co-ordinator, London Hilton Park Lane, London

Favourite Quote: “The past is kind enough to give you lessons. The present is kind enough to give you opportunities. The future is kind enough to give you both.”

Jake Cameron AIH 

I was uncertain about the career I wanted to pursue and began my journey in a small restaurant, then moved to a larger establishment where I transitioned into a role as a barista and quickly progressed to Café Supervisor.

During the pandemic, I worked on my family’s farm, but two years later, I found my true calling in the hotel industry as a receptionist. This role brought a deep sense of belonging and fulfilment, and through determination and self-development, I have continued to grow ever since.

Hospitality has always been my passion and mentoring others brings me great joy. I place great value on my own learning journey, guided by a mentor who inspires and challenges me every day. For me, it’s not just about what we do—it’s about how we do it. Approaching each day with genuine care and positivity is key. The hospitality industry is filled with incredible opportunities. I am dedicated to shaping a bright future for new talent and future generations. If we don’t inspire the next wave of professionals to choose this dynamic and rewarding career, who will?

Current role: Duty Manager – Braid Hills Hotel, Edinburgh / 7 Hospitality Management, Scotland

Favourite Quote: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

Rizwan Khan MIH

Born in India and raised by parents in the hospitality industry, I’ve always been surrounded by inspiring individuals. After moving to the UK, I joined the hospitality industry at 16, working in roles in some of London’s finest dining establishments, becoming the youngest General Manager at 21.

I take pride in pushing myself out of my comfort zone, earning accolades such as a finalist of the Gold Service Scholarship 2024, the Annual Awards of Excellence, and the Réunion des Gastronomes Award. I’ve also completed a diploma from École hôtelière de Lausanne and am a proud Member of the Institute of Hospitality.

Hospitality has shaped me into who I am today, and I’m passionate about giving back by coaching and inspiring others. As a member of the Youth Council, I am committed to promoting our industry to younger generations and guiding them toward rewarding careers in this diverse field.

Current role: General Manager, Junsei, Marylebone, London

Favourite quote: “You cannot cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” – Rabindranath Tagore

Rishabh Vaish AIH 

Born in India, raised in Singapore, and educated in Australia, I have had the privilege of growing up immersed in these diverse cultures. This global upbringing instilled in me a love for connecting with people from all walks of life and learning from their unique experiences, sparking my passion for hospitality. To deepen my understanding of this dynamic industry, I pursued both a Bachelor’s and master’s degree in hospitality.

Being a part of the Institute of Hospitality and the Youth Council allows me to learn from industry experts while sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm with the next generation. I am excited to actively contribute to shaping the future of this important industry.

Current role: Sales and Booking Associate, Blue Orchid Hospitality, London

Favourite quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky