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Industry Awareness Feature
It’s 6:30 a.m. at Club Mahindra Acacia Palms, Goa. The sun filters through coconut fronds as a technician in a crisp uniform checks the resort’s energy systems— methodically inspecting panels and logging data. Nearby, a steward arranges fresh flowers in the lobby, while a security officer greets early risers with quiet confidence. Each woman is part of a team that runs every aspect of this resort — from engineering and food production, to guest services and horticulture.
At Club Mahindra Acacia Palms, women anchor every area of operation — reminding us that empowerment isn’t symbolic, it grows out of equal opportunity. For guests, it’s a seamless experience, and for the women behind it, this is a daily act of leadership. It’s a blueprint for change where inclusion is a conscious process and women can lead without limits.
Helping break the glass ceiling Across India’s hospitality sector, women play a vital role in frontline service, yet remain underrepresented in technical and leadership positions. Departments like engineering and security have long been male-dominated, creating barriers to advancement. Inclusive leadership is key to building resilient, future-ready tourism. As the sector evolves, stories like Acacia Palms offer a blueprint for meaningful change.
Moving towards workplace inclusion In 2025, Club Mahindra transformed Acacia Palms into its first all-women-run resort — a bold move driven by a belief in workplace inclusion. Every department, from kitchen stewarding to general maintenance, is led by women — many stepping into these roles for the first time.
In a press review, Manoj Bhat, MD & CEO of Mahindra Holidays, stated, “Our Acacia Palms Resort is a true reflection of our commitment to gender diversity, inclusion, and women empowerment.”
The resort features a thriving organic garden, where chefs handpick fresh local produce like red amaranth, spinach, and beans to craft delicious meals for guests, who truly enjoy and appreciate the farm-to-table experience. Culinary offerings highlight regional recipes, often prepared by women chefs trained in both technique and tradition.
When women are trusted to lead For many team members, Acacia Palms is more than a workplace — it’s a place to grow. A young technician, formerly trained in electrical systems but never employed in the field, now leads daily maintenance checks and mentors junior staff. A horticulturist, once confined to seasonal work, now curates the resort’s gardens. A career aspirant who began in housekeeping now manages guest services and trains new recruits. These aren’t just job titles, they’re career pathways. Each woman brings experience, technical skill, and a sense of ownership that reshapes the resort’s operations. Their stories reflect a deeper truth: when women are trusted to lead, they build systems that last.
Setting a good example in the industry This project is setting a good example to follow across India’s tourism landscape — embracing equitable hiring, community partnerships, and long-term career development. The goal is to move beyond tokenism — particularly in regions where women’s employment remains low.
Guests at Acacia Palms don’t just enjoy a stay, they engage with a story. The result is a guest experience that’s immersive, ethical, and defined by the all-women team at the resort.
Back at Acacia Palms, the technician finishes her morning round. The resort hums to life — not with fanfare, but with quiet precision. Each woman here is part of a larger purpose, one that redefines what hospitality can be. When women lead without limits, they don’t just change the workplace — they reshape career options in the industry.
There’s more on this story at these links
Club mahindra leads with inclusion: Acacia Palms in Goa now run entirely by womenUSEFUL LINKS
AIRDA WebsiteImages used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any specific products, services, or offers from our members or affiliates. (Images shared by the team at Club Mahindra Acacia Palms, Goa.)
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