These women are leading the change in the hospitality scene

'I learnt to not be afraid and apply for positions even if I felt I needed more experience,' says Pecoraro. — Photos: Hilton Hotels & Resorts

According to the UN Tourism (formerly United Nations World Tourism Organisation or UNWTO), 54% of the tourism workforce is composed of women. However, most are employed in lower-skilled and lower-paid positions. Those in family tourism businesses further serve in an informal capacity, with most of their work done without pay.

Focusing on the hospitality sector, managerial positions have traditionally been held by males, but in recent years there has been a surge of females taking on the role of general managers in leading hotels.