OpenTable partners with Be Inclusive Hospitality to support industry diversity

Be Inclusive Hospitality launches its fifth Elevate Mentorship Scheme for restaurant founders from Black, Asian and other ethnic minority backgrounds to help unlock access to hospitality expertise.

LONDON, 29th August – OpenTable today announces a partnership with Be Inclusive Hospitality, a social enterprise and nonprofit organisation, which works to advance racial equality and representation within the UK hospitality industry.

OpenTable will be proudly supporting its fifth Elevate Mentorship Scheme, a six-month mentorship programme from January – June 2025, for hospitality professionals from Black, Asian, and other ethnic minority backgrounds. Participants will be matched with hospitality industry leaders who will be committed to share knowledge, feedback, and advice, guiding them toward their business and career goals.

Be Inclusive Hospitality’s Inside Hospitality Report 2023 revealed that 77% and 65% of Black and Asian respondents find mentorship to be the most helpful form of support for career progression. This year’s scheme includes multiple mentors, including Laure Bornet, OpenTable’s Vice President of International Growth. Applications close on the 30th September 2024.

Lorraine Copes, Be Inclusive Hospitality CEO and Founder, said: “To date, the Elevate Mentorship Scheme has supported over 100 mentees with over 600 hours of mentorship, leading to over 70% of mentees achieving their career and business aspirations during or soon after the scheme ends. I’m delighted to partner with OpenTable on supporting restaurant founders to step-change their business performance and shine a light on the UK’s diverse dining scene.”

Laure Bornet, OpenTable’s Vice President of International Growth, said: “Be Inclusive Hospitality has made big strides in helping to advance racial equality and representation within the hospitality industry, and we’re proud to partner with them to continue to do this. The partnership reinforces our dedication to championing restaurants and making hospitality careers more accessible in the UK, and I’m thrilled to take part in the scheme as a mentor this year, helping to empower founders to elevate their businesses.”

The partnership also extends to OpenTable’s sponsorship of the Be Inclusive Hospitality Spotlight Awards, set to take place on October 21st. These awards recognise the exceptional talent and achievements from Black, Asian, and other ethnic minorities working within the hospitality, food, and drink sectors.

Looking for dining inspiration? Lorraine reviews 3 OpenTable women owned unique London restaurants, offering delicious Ethiopian, Malaysian and Caribbean menus.