IHG Hotels & Resorts Partners with Ant Foundation to Boost Employment for Rural Women in China

IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its corporate commitment to diversity and inclusion by collaborating with the Ant Foundation to support the “Cyber Mulan” Homestay Manager Training Project. The project aims to provide career opportunities to women from rural areas within the hospitality industry.

The training project was officially launched on December 6 at Crowne Plaza Hangzhou Science City. It focuses on providing women from rural areas with training in artificial intelligence and various professional skills. The initiative will also offer internships at participating hotels to provide practical experience, enhance employment opportunities for these women and contribute to rural revitalization.

Rita Jiang, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, IHG Greater China, highlighted the importance of nurturing talent to stimulate rural economies. She emphasized IHG’s corporate commitment to social responsibility, fostering workforce diversity, and creating more opportunities for women and underrepresented groups.

Wang Xiaojing, Secretary-General of the Ant Foundation, noted the value of bringing professional skills to women from rural areas who can then share their local love and culture with global visitors. The Ant Foundation aims to continue investing in women’s development and seeks further collaborations with like-minded partners.

The “Cyber Mulan” Homestay Manager Training Project, initiated by the Department of Market Management of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the China Foundation for Rural Development, and the Zhejiang Ant Foundation, has made a difference. It offers digital employment opportunities and promotes jobs in the rural cultural tourism sector.

Building on this, IHG and Ant Foundation will also focus on developing women’s leadership skills, providing additional training sessions and sharing success stories to inspire rural women to explore their personal growth potential.

IHG remains committed to fostering a diverse, equal, and inclusive corporate culture. In the future, the company plans to continue supporting national development strategies for women and underrepresented groups, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive society.