Tell us about your journey in hospitality so far – what drew you to the industry and keeps you passionate about it today?

I started my journey as a trainee while I was still in secondary school, and from the very first day, I fell in love with the industry. The company I joined had a strong culture and a genuine commitment to investing in young people. That early trust and support were incredibly motivating, and it’s that same combination of people, culture, and opportunity that continues to fuel my passion today.

What motivated you to join the Connecting Future Leaders Committee Norway, and how has working alongside peers from other companies helped you expand your network and develop new perspectives?

Ingunn was the first person who introduced me to the project I now lead in Norway, Connecting Future Leaders. She immediately recognized my deep desire to help build a platform where young leaders can grow, connect, and share knowledge. What motivates me most is that HSMAI Europe truly lives its values. Being surrounded by peers from across the industry has expanded my network and given me fresh perspectives, reminding me how powerful collaboration can be.

Connecting Future Leaders (CFL) events are an important part of HSMAI Europe; what’s been your most memorable takeaway or moment from one of these events?

We host several gatherings every year, and each one leaves me inspired. Hearing leaders share their stories and expertise is always a highlight, just as it is to watch attendees connect, grow their networks, and genuinely enjoy the experience. Those moments give me butterflies every single time. One standout moment was a presentation by Terje Grue, Country Manager Norway & Iceland for Emirates. His storytelling about the company and their definition of hospitality was truly inspiring. I learned so much from him, and you could feel the entire room light up, everyone had stars in their eyes. He is an exceptional ambassador for the brand.

What excites you most about the future of hospitality, and how do you see yourself contributing to that future?

Today, our industry is one of Norway’s strongest economic engines, and by 2025 tourism will contribute over 400 billion NOK in value creation. But growth alone is not enough. Hospitality is about people, those who seek experiences and those who make them possible. Today’s travelers seek meaning, culture, community, and authentic encounters. That means we must offer more than hotel rooms, food, and transportation; we must create experiences that inspire and last.
What drives me is building workplaces where people can grow, where ideas are heard, and where both guests and employees feel they truly belong.

For young hotel and travel professionals who might be thinking, “Is this for me?” – what would you say to encourage them to get involved?

If you want to wake up and go to work in an industry that puts people and experiences at the center, and offers endless opportunities for growth, diverse roles, and skill development, then this is absolutely the right place for you.

Quick-fire round (one-line answers only):

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received at HSMAI Europe events?

Stay curious, show enthusiasm, and respect the people around you.

What’s one skill every young leader should develop?

Never stop being curious.

Name a hospitality trend that excites you right now.

The shift from a one-size-fits-all definition of luxury to a model where each guest defines luxury on their own terms.

How would you describe the greatest benefit of HSMAI Europe in just one line?

HSMAI Europe creates the arena where the future of hospitality can be shaped and the lifts up talents who drive it.