Rosewood Foundation Launches ‘Rise to the Table’ to Empower Women in Food and Beverage

International

With a steadfast commitment to equity, access, and sustainability, the Rosewood Foundation is introducing Rise to the Table, a new initiative designed to address the persistent gender gap in the global food and beverage industry

As part of its dedication to advancing opportunities for women in hospitality, Rosewood Hotel Group and the Rosewood Foundation proudly announce the debut of this annual program. Rise to the Table is the first fully sponsored global platform of its kind, created to support and inspire the next generation of female leaders. Open not only to Rosewood associates but to women across the industry worldwide, the program will begin with an immersive week-long educational residency hosted by Rosewood leaders and experts at Rosewood Hong Kong in March 2026, followed by a year-long mentorship program focused on career development. Applications remain open until October 13, 2025.

Addressing the Gender Gap

Despite the central role women play in hospitality, leadership positions in food and beverage remain disproportionately male-dominated. Fewer than 7% of the world’s top restaurants are currently led by women. Across roles ranging from chefs to sommeliers, bartenders to service managers, systemic barriers continue to slow advancement, preventing many from realizing their full potential.

About the Program

Rise to the Table was conceived to drive meaningful change by cultivating a global movement that unites talent and community while celebrating women’s achievements. Each year, 10 women from across the food and beverage industry will be chosen to participate. The inaugural residency in Hong Kong will feature professional coaching and strategy workshops focused on leadership, personal branding, financial literacy, and sustainability-driven innovation.

Complementing the classroom sessions, participants will engage in experiential learning, including curated wine tastings, visits to local markets and farms, and dining experiences at some of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed restaurants and bars.

Building Long-Term Impact

The program’s foundation is a structured one-year mentorship, with each participant paired with a senior Rosewood leader to provide guidance, foster professional growth, and sustain community beyond the residency. Designed as an annual initiative, the residency will rotate among Rosewood properties worldwide, extending its reach and impact.

A Message from Leadership

“By championing the extraordinary women shaping the future of food and beverage, we are not only supporting individual careers but also creating systemic change,” says Sonia Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “This program seeks to cultivate equity, innovation, and leadership in an industry that inspires and unites. We are not just changing the narrative—we are creating a new one, showcasing the diverse talent redefining the future.”

https://careers.rosewoodhotelgroup.com/risetothetable