A Millennial Checks In: Miraj Patel Becomes Youngest Chairman of Asian American Hotel Owners Association

Texas hotelier Miraj S. Patel has been appointed chairman of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), becoming the youngest to serve in this position in the organization’s 35-year history. The Indian American was named chairman after the AAHOA Convention & Trade Show, held recently in Orlando, Florida. Nearly 6,500 hoteliers and vendors attended the event held April 2 to 5. 

Addressing the convention after his appointment, Patel said he is “honored” to serve America’s hotel owners as the newest chairman. “I am committed to helping solve some of the industry’s toughest challenges with simple and straightforward solutions and to putting our members at the center of every decision we make.”

He promised “to lay the foundation for a tomorrow that reflects the aspirations, needs, and challenges of today,” and “strive to work alongside the board of directors to shape a future where we are pioneering new ways of thinking, a collaborative spirit, and results.” Crediting AAHOA for his success, he said it is “incredibly reassuring to know the same is true for so many other members.”

A second-generation hotelier, he began his career in hospitality at a young age, growing up in his family’s first 30-room independent property. He got his start in volunteer service at AAHOA by serving as a committee member for several years and joining the board of directors in 2019 after being elected as Young Professional Director Western Division.

He is currently president of Wayside Investment Group, a Houston-based company that specializes in making opportunistic investments in the lodging and hospitality real estate sector.

“Serving as the youngest chair in the association’s history further demonstrates AAHOA’s commitment to fostering the growth and success of the next generation,” Patel said. I’m always encouraging young professionals not to let age determine success. Many times, people may say you’re too young, but that is absolutely not true. There are so many folks who are young but still do whatever it takes to find success. If you never try, you’ll never know what you’re capable of achieving.”

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A firm believer in giving back to the community, he serves on various industry associations and charitable organizations and continues to seek opportunities to make a positive difference.

He earned his Master’s in Business Administration and his Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Lodging Management from Johnson and Wales University in Miami, Florida. 

(Top photo, Miraj S. Patel/Twiter)