When trying to capture Talia Hawley’s personality in one word, resilient instantly comes to mind. The New Jersey native relocated to Washington, DC after graduating from Howard University’s School of Business in 2010 and the immense network and rich history of the District inspired her to pursue a variety of exciting passion projects. Charging forward with a poised, clear-headed demeanor, she fosters her love of travel and commerce in the pursuit of success.

Talia has more than 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry: she’s worked for well-recognized hotel brands such as Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. Earning a post-graduate certificate in Hotel Real Estate Development and Asset Management from Cornell University helped prepare Talia for her current work as a Development Specialist at the American Youth Hostel Federation, the nation’s leading hostel brand. The role requires a unique skillset of strategic planning, project management and strong client relations. Talia has risen to the occasion, ensuring that guests not only experience quality accommodations but increase their intercultural understanding, value their involvement in a community of travelers, and move toward becoming more active global citizens.

Talia wants to live in a world filled with people eager to improve the lives of others. She has volunteered with many local nonprofit collectives. In 2015 she became a founding DC Ambassador of Kicks 4 the City, a charity devoted to providing shoes for the homeless. She regularly mentors through Capital Partners in Education because the organization’s programming allows her to potentially change a young person’s life. Passionate about making a global impact, during the summer of 2017 Talia joined over three hundred other young people in the United Kingdom to focus on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals with her World Merit 360 Team.

When Talia is not saving the world, she is exploring it. Recently featured in “Fearless Females of Travel”, Talia encourages others to have unforgettable experiences in different places amid a variety of cultures. While Talia loves to venture out, she also enjoys the calm that comes with being still. Her current obsessions include sampling teas, spending quality “pet mom” time with her dog Jersey, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise.