MIRAJ PATEL, AAHOA chairman, was named Businessperson of the Year by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston at its 25th Anniversary Gala on Sept. 21. The association congratulated Patel on becoming the youngest recipient in the chamber's history.
Patel, a second-generation hotelier, began his hospitality career at a young age, growing up in his family's 30-room independent property, AAHOA said in a statement. He is now president of Wayside Investment Group, a Texas-based firm focused on lodging and hospitality real estate.
"I am honored to receive the Businessperson of the Year award from the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston," said Patel. "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."
AAHOA maintains strong ties with the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston, as both current president Rajiv Bhavsar and incoming president Malisha S. Patel are AAHOA members, the association said. This relationship underscores the mutual support in advancing business and hospitality growth.
"On behalf of AAHOA, I want to extend our congratulations to Miraj on receiving the prestigious Businessperson of the Year award," said Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA’s president and CEO. "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."
In its first strategic investment, AAHOA, alongside Blackstone Growth, agreed to acquire a majority stake in hospitality accounting software firm M3, promising significant benefits for members and the industry.
