The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) has extended its congratulations to Chairman Miraj S. Patel, who has been recognized as the Businessperson of the Year by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston. Patel, who has made history as the youngest recipient of the award, was honored during the Chamber’s 25th-anniversary Gala and Awards Banquet on September 21.
The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston highlighted Patel’s impressive role as the youngest chairman in AAHOA’s history. AAHOA, which represents a significant portion of the U.S. hospitality sector, consists of 20,000 hotel owners who collectively hold ownership of more than 60% of hotels across the country.
Patel, a second-generation hotelier, grew up deeply immersed in the hospitality industry. His journey began with his family’s first independent 30-room hotel. Over time, his experience and dedication to the industry expanded, leading him to become the president of Wayside Investment Group, a company headquartered in Texas. The group specializes in investments focused on the lodging and hospitality real estate market, reflecting Patel’s ongoing commitment to the industry.
In response to receiving this honor, Patel expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I am honored to receive the Businessperson of the Year award from the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston,” Patel said. “It’s a privilege to be recognized by an organization that champions the entrepreneurial spirit and supports the growth of our community. This award reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone at AAHOA, and I am grateful to be part of such an incredible network of leaders. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the Chamber to promote the success of our businesses and our industry.” His statement reflects both humility and a strong sense of collaboration, highlighting his vision for continued growth in the hospitality sector.
AAHOA’s connection with the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston runs deep. The organization’s current president, Rajiv Bhavsar, and the incoming president, Malisha S. Patel, are both active members of AAHOA. This shared membership underscores the mutual relationship between the two organizations, emphasizing their shared mission to foster business growth, particularly in the hospitality industry. The strong bond between AAHOA and the Chamber exemplifies the collaborative efforts both organizations have pursued to support and enhance the entrepreneurial landscape.
AAHOA President and CEO Laura Lee Blake also offered praise for Patel’s achievement, underscoring the significance of his leadership and contributions to the industry. “On behalf of AAHOA, I want to extend our congratulations to Miraj on receiving the prestigious Businessperson of the Year award from the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston,” Blake said. “This honor reflects Miraj’s leadership, commitment to the hospitality industry, and dedication to serving our members. We are proud to see him recognized for his contributions not only to AAHOA but to the broader business community as well.”
Blake’s acknowledgment of Patel’s leadership demonstrates the respect and admiration Patel has garnered within both AAHOA and the larger business community. His ability to guide AAHOA through a rapidly changing hospitality landscape has earned him this accolade, and his peers recognize his vision and dedication.
Patel’s leadership journey at AAHOA has been noteworthy for its focus on empowering hotel owners and expanding the association’s influence within the hospitality industry. AAHOA, which has grown into a powerhouse representing the interests of thousands of hotel owners, relies on strong leadership to advocate for its members’ interests at the highest levels of business and government. Patel’s role as chairman has not only brought him individual recognition but has also highlighted the important work of AAHOA as a whole. By securing this award, Patel has drawn further attention to the accomplishments of the association and its members, who play a vital role in the U.S. hotel industry.
The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston plays a pivotal role in supporting business leaders and entrepreneurs of Indo-American heritage. Its mission is to connect and empower the business community, providing resources, advocacy, and a platform for collaboration. By honoring Patel with the Businessperson of the Year award, the Chamber has recognized not only his individual achievements but also the broader contributions of the Indo-American business community to the U.S. economy. This recognition of Patel highlights the impact that Indo-American business leaders continue to have across a wide array of industries, including hospitality.
The 25th-anniversary Gala and Awards Banquet was a milestone event for the Chamber, reflecting on two and a half decades of service to the business community. The event honored not only Patel but also other leaders who have contributed to the growth and success of the Chamber. Patel’s award, however, was particularly significant, as it represents a new era of leadership within the Chamber and AAHOA.
Patel’s story, from a young boy helping his family run their first hotel to becoming a key figure in the U.S. hospitality industry, serves as an inspiration for many aspiring entrepreneurs. His leadership at AAHOA and his success with the Wayside Investment Group highlight his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to growth in the hospitality sector. Patel has built a career that embodies hard work, vision, and collaboration, and his recognition by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston solidifies his reputation as a leader in both the hospitality industry and the broader business community.
Miraj S. Patel’s recognition as Businessperson of the Year by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston is a well-deserved honor that underscores his leadership, dedication, and vision. As the youngest chairman of AAHOA, Patel has demonstrated his ability to guide the organization toward continued success while remaining grounded in the values of hard work and community engagement. Both AAHOA and the Chamber have acknowledged his contributions to the hospitality industry and his broader impact on the business community. Through this award, Patel’s story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and leadership in achieving success in today’s competitive business world.