6 Questions with Dr. Altaf Sovani, founder & CEO of Alzen Consulting

Dr. Altaf Sovani, DBA

Educator/Consultant/Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO
Alzen Consulting, Inc.
Joined MPI in 2006

Contact information: 
LinkedIn: Altaf Sovani 
Twitter: @ALTAFsovani

You have been recognized as one of the 30 Most Influential Educators by the International Hospitality Institute for advancing hospitality education. Can you tell us about the Award nomination criteria and the importance of education in the industry?

• The award recognizes 30 scholars across the globe who are advancing hospitality education. The criteria for the nomination include a demonstrated commitment to the field, innovative approaches to education, and significant contributions to the industry. Education plays a crucial role in the hospitality industry as it equips future professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their careers. It helps individuals understand the industry's complexities, fosters critical thinking, and promotes continuous improvement and innovation.

   

  How has this impacted you professionally?

• Being recognized as one of the 30 Most Influential Educators is a great honor. It is particularly meaningful to receive recognition from peers worldwide who are also advancing hospitality education. Professionally, this recognition validates the decades of dedication and work I have invested in the industry. It reinforces my commitment to improving the field and motivates me to continue making a positive impact.
  
  

  And, what is the impact in your day-to-day work?

• In my day-to-day work, it provides added credibility and opens doors to collaborate with other industry leaders and experts.

   

  How is this recognition being celebrated/acknowledged?

• The recognition will be featured in the June edition of the International Hospitality Institute’s Global Hospitality Magazine, where the honorees will be showcased. While there may not be a formal awards presentation, the magazine's coverage provides a platform to highlight the achievements and contributions of the scholars who have received this honor.

   

  Who would you like to acknowledge or thank?

• I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Jeffery O, President of the International Hospitality Institute and President & CEO of St. Justine for his support and for providing this platform to recognize and celebrate educators in the hospitality industry. I am also thankful to my colleagues, mentors, and students who have inspired and motivated me throughout my career.

   

  What is your next area of focus?

• My next area of focus is to continue engaging in conversations with industry stakeholders, associations, and government bodies regarding the labour crisis in the hospitality and tourism sector. As outlined in my book, "Labor Crisis in Hospitality, Tourism & Event Industry: Finding Innovative Solutions for Recruitment and Retention of Millennials," I aim to drive change and find effective solutions to address the challenges faced by the industry in recruiting and retaining millennial talent. I am committed to being a voice for millennials in this industry and will work tirelessly until we see the necessary changes implemented.

 Article edited by Cynthia Beaudin, Canada Foundation for Innovation