New Hotel in Orlando Specializes in Diversity and Inclusion Education for Guests

A new hotel in Orlando, Florida, has a unique claim to fame as one of the first travel properties designed with a specific focus on promoting diversity, equity and inclusion among its guests.

The Lake Nona Wave Hotel just opened in December 2021, but according to Kimberly Wilson of Essence, “it’s already begun to transform how hotels think about inclusivity for all … and placing kids’ diversity at the forefront.” 

“The family-friendly destination, set just minutes from Orlando International Airport, wants to make the experience of Disney World and all the magic that the city has to offer, by also educating children about diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility,” Wilson reported. “Built on the foundation of innovation that extends beyond technology, the hotel’s diversity programming was carefully curated by prominent advocates with amenities including a library of 100+ children’s DEIA-focused books and bedtime story read aloud via an in-room tablet, as well as over 200 beverage brands supporting female, Black and LGBT-owned businesses, and more.”

In an interview with Wilson, Suzie Yang, General Manager of Lake Nona Wave Hotel, said her hotel “is the latest evolution in the thriving ecosystem that is Lake Nona. By harnessing world-class wellness, esteemed art, internationally-inspired cuisine, and leading-edge technology, we have created a one-of-a-kind travel experience that cannot be found elsewhere.”

As part of the hotel’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion, Yang said the hotel would also feature a rotating roster of diverse-owned technology partners; dining programs created by various chefs of color; size-inclusive bathrobes and hotel amenities; as well as a hotel music program curated by some of the region’s leading LGBTQ DJs.

Wilson reported that the hotel also partnered with leaders in the DEI space, including Pranoo Kumar Skomra, teacher, ‘edupreneur,’ DEIA advocate and founder of Rohi’s Readery, “South Florida’s first stand-alone social-justice-oriented children’s bookstore, to curate the hotel’s literary program.” 

 

Related: For more recent diversity and inclusion news, click here.