The Winners
Meet the exceptional winners of the Future Hotel Leader Award—visionary professionals who are shaping the future of the hospitality industry. Selected by an esteemed jury of industry experts, these leaders have demonstrated outstanding innovation, leadership, and impact.
Explore their journeys and discover the talent driving hospitality forward.
Kimberly Appels
Kimberly, the 2026 Future Hotel Leader Award winner, combines authentic leadership with genuine care—for her team, her guests, and her community. A mother of three, she inspires through action, from coaching colleagues to running charity marathons, while keeping a strong focus on health, well-being, and community engagement. With hands-on experience in daily hotel operations and a clear ambition realized through her career growth, she exemplifies the balance of drive and calm, making her a natural leader and an inspiring role model for the hospitality industry.