On January 29, 2026, the Kick-off event of We Are Hoteliers 2026 (WAH 2026) was successfully held, marking the official launch of the competition’s fourth season. With the theme “Defining Hospitality Excellence in the Age of AI,” the event opened an exciting journey that promises innovation, creativity, and meaningful learning opportunities for participants nationwide.
Distinguished Guests and Partners
The event was honored by the presence of representatives from the competition’s partner organizations, including:
- Ms. Vu Thi Thao, Vice Director, CTHI International School Vietnam
- Ms. Truong Mai Tinh, HR Consultant, Capella Hanoi
- Ms. Nguyen Ngoc Anh, Learning and Development Manager, Capella Hanoi
- Ms. Chu Thi Phuong, Swiss Education Group
- Mr. Pham Duy Phong, Training & People Development Executive for Vietnam, Cambodia & Myanmar, The Ascott Limited
- Ms. Mai Nam Phuong, HR Manager, InterContinental Hanoi Landmark 72
From Foreign Trade University, the program welcomed:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Thi Hien, Vice President
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duy Linh, Deputy Head of the Office of Communications and External Relations
- Dr. Hoang Tuan Dung, Director of the Student Support Center
Representing the Faculty of Business Administration, the event was attended by:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Thai Phong, Dean
- Dr. Nguyen Thuy Anh, Vice Dean
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Thu Hien, Vice Dean
Inspiring Opening for the Fourth Season
The Kick-off ceremony featured insightful remarks from representatives of partner organizations, faculty members, and the organizing committee. The event marked an important milestone for the fourth season of We Are Hoteliers, reaffirming the competition’s mission to create a dynamic academic platform where students can explore the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.
In her remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Thu Hien highlighted the uniqueness of this year’s theme and the strong support from industry partners. She emphasized that the competition continues to serve as a reputable academic platform, enabling participants to showcase their talents while building meaningful connections with industry professionals. Notably, the 2026 season introduces several innovations in format, including an expansion of eligibility to high school students, further broadening the competition’s impact.
Alumni Experience Sharing
The event also featured an inspiring sharing session from Ms. Bui Phuong Anh, Team Leader of the Champion Team of WAH 2025 and a student from the K60 cohort of the Business Administration program at Foreign Trade University. She shared that despite not majoring in hospitality, her team initially faced significant challenges. However, through perseverance, dedicated mentorship, and valuable learning experiences such as hotel tours, the team gained deeper insights into the industry and confidently performed in the Grand Final.
Official Announcement of Competition Format
In addition to inspirational discussions, the Kick-off ceremony also officially announced the competition format and prize structure, providing participants with essential information to prepare for the upcoming rounds. A lively Q&A session featuring faculty members and partner representatives addressed participants’ questions and offered valuable guidance for the competition journey ahead.
The Organizing Committee extends its sincere appreciation to the faculty members, sponsors, partners, contestants, and attendees whose enthusiasm contributed to a truly inspiring Kick-off event. Their continued support serves as a strong motivation for We Are Hoteliers to further develop and deliver meaningful learning experiences for students passionate about the hospitality industry.
Competition Information
We Are Hoteliers 2026
Participants:
Open to high school students and university students nationwide, regardless of major, who are interested in business administration, hospitality and tourism management, and the competition theme.
Registration:
- Team registration: https://bit.ly/dangkitheodoiwah2026
- Individual registration: https://bit.ly/dangkicanhan
Application deadline: 12:00 PM, February 8, 2026
Competition Timeline
- Round 1: Unlocking Hospitality Intelligence (Feb 9 – Mar 5)
- Round 2: Designing AI Solutions (Mar 6 – Mar 22)
- Final Round: Leading Hospitality Excellence (Mar 23 – Apr 2)
Grand Final and Award Ceremony: April 2, 2026
Contact Information
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/wahftu
Hospitality Program Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/qtksclc.ftu
Email: wearehoteliers@gmail.com
Address: Room B204, Building B, Foreign Trade University
Hotline:
- MSc. Hoang Thi Khanh Ly, Lecturer, Hospitality Management Division – Faculty of Business Administration: +84 988 008 889
- Vu Quang Huy, President of FHA: +84 335 650 634