How Team Member Resource Groups Promote Diversity and Inclusion at Hilton Grand Vacations

Hilton Grand Vacations, recognized as a Great Place to Work? in 2022, cultivates diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) throughout the workplace. Research shows that diverse and inclusive workplaces have higher employee retention and a more positive company culture . But it can be difficult for companies to encourage DEI&B in meaningful ways beyond tokenism and other “illusions of inclusion .” So how does Hilton Grand Vacations promote diversity?

HGV ensures DEI&B are more than just buzzwords through supporting Team Member resource groups (TMRGs). TMRGs, also known as employee resource groups , are voluntary, employee-led groups focused on supporting employees with shared characteristics, ranging from gender, ethnicity and beyond.

TMRGs embrace diversity in its different forms and create spaces where Team Members can learn and thrive. HGV hosts thriving TMRGs for African American, Asian-Pacific Islander, Hispanic-Latino, LGBTQIA+ and multi-cultural Team Members. There are also TMRGs for sustainability, members of the military, different age groups, women, Team Members with disabilities and working parents and caretakers.

Meet the three co-chairs of HGV’s Hispanic-Latino TMRG:

• Nadia F., the manager of guest services at Parc Soleil, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club
• Daniella S., customer experience analyst for consumer marketing
• Rebecca Torres P., the facilities coordinator at Mystic Dunes, a Hilton Vacation Club

We spoke with Nadia and Daniella about their experience with TMRGs and how Hilton Grand Vacations supports DEI&B.

What is a TMRG?

Nadia: Essentially, a TMRG is a platform for connection. They allow like-minded individuals to explore ideas and learn more about a particular culture.

Daniella: I agree with Nadia. I believe the TMRGs at HGV provide a great outlet for Team Members to get together on a professional and personal level. The Hispanic-Latino TMRG is a heritage-based group that brings together people to celebrate our culture.

What is the value of DEI&B to you?

Daniella: The value of DEI&B is that it makes everyone more open-minded about our differences and similarities. We all come from different cultures, and every culture brings value to the American melting pot. From a work perspective, we all have unique backgrounds and bring our own touches to what we do.

Nadia: Bringing together individuals who are different creates strength. We all have different strengths, like Daniella said. I’m open-minded to other cultures to understand other people. That way, I can treat others how they want to be treated, not how I think they should be treated. Especially in hospitality , we want to treat our Owners, Members and Guests with the utmost respect and help them feel at home, whatever that looks like.

Also, to do our jobs effectively, we need the support of others. No one person can do everything. My mom loves to say that we’re not a one-man band.

It isn’t always easy to lift each other up. Sometimes we misunderstand things, even if we have good intentions. TMRGs make a difference by educating Team Members about different cultures.

The Hispanic-Latino TMRG has hosted events, including virtual cultural trivia events and in-person salsa dance classes. Why are these events important?

Nadia: These events are important to share our culture and educate people.

Plus, I know how important it is for others to feel included. These events create connections across properties so others know they have Team Members who can help. I think that support makes all the difference. In the end, their successes are our successes.

Why did you decide to help co-chair the Hispanic-Latino TMRG?

Nadia: I’ve helped with a number of TMRGs. However, the Hispanic-Latino group is near and dear to me. I’m a first-generation American. My parents came from Colombia and went through a lot to send me to college. So I want to help those who don’t have the same resources I did. In general, I think it’s why I gravitated to hospitality.

Daniella: I’ve resonated a lot with my culture. Like Nadia, I’m a first-generation American. My parents are from Peru, and they have always instilled our culture and traditions. As a young professional at HGV, the TMRG was a chance to get outside my comfort zone, grow professionally and gain leadership experience. But it’s also important for me to share the culture and tremendous contributions the Hispanic-Latino community has given this country.

Nadia: I’m proud of HGV because of the support and enthusiasm for TMRGs. We’re carrying the torch, helping others and saying, “Hey, it’s okay to be who you are.” As a leader in operations, I see individuals who have had challenges similar to mine. It feels good to help them during their journey, whether they’re in housekeeping or marketing.

How can Team Members help promote diversity?

Daniella: Participate and engage with TMRGs. You don’t have to be Hispanic or Latino to be part of our TMRG; the same applies to the other groups.

Take time out of your day to connect and tune in to events. It’s always a good place to learn and grow and stay connected with what’s happening at the organization.

Nadia: I agree with Daniella. Join the groups. There’s so much education that comes from listening to others.

In addition, I would also say to speak up and take action. Sometimes we’re in a place where we see something that’s not right. Be a proponent to change in the workplace and speak up respectfully. Like I said earlier, sometimes individuals just don’t know, and we can help educate them.

Finally, why apply for a job with Hilton Grand Vacations?

Nadia: HGV is a company you can grow with. It’s not just a job but a career. I’ve had opportunities I couldn’t have anywhere else.

I feel like HGV sees me as an individual, not just a number. I think that’s made a difference in my career.

Daniella: HGV has a bright future. The company is always looking forward and is full of growth.

Also, if you’re a traveler like me, the Team Member travel perks are always excellent. The travel perks offer a chance to travel both domestically and internationally. This opens a door to learn about different cultures and customs.

Nadia: The benefits are amazing . I’ve worked for several other companies, and the benefits don’t even come close.

If you’re interested in a career and supporting DEI&B at a growing company, check out job openings at hgv.com/careers .