In an enlightening episode of Hotel Talk, Farah Shammas sat down with Сarine Khoury, a multilingual entrepreneur with a rich background in the hospitality industry. Born to a Lebanese father and a German mother, Сarine’s journey spans continents, cultures, and careers, offering a unique perspective on life, work, and the pursuit of passion.
In the realm of international hospitality, few individuals embody the spirit of multicultural adaptability quite like Carine Khoury. Her journey, shaped by the tumultuous events in Lebanon and subsequent relocations, has led her to become a prominent figure in the hospitality industry and beyond.
For Сarine Khoury, her multicultural background is both a gift and a responsibility—a unique perspective that she leverages while forging her path as a businesswoman, mother, and innovator in the world of sustainable decor.
In a recent interview Carine shared insights into her remarkable journey, from her early years navigating multiple cultures and mastering six languages to establishing herself in the high-stakes world of international hospitality and later transitioning to entrepreneurship, her current role as a successful businesswoman and mother.
The conversation offers a fascinating look at how Carine balances the influences of her diverse heritage while creating an identity and career uniquely her own.
The Path to Hospitality: A Natural Progression
Carine’s entry into the hospitality industry was a decision born of both passion and practicality. After considering journalism as a potential career path, she found herself drawn to the dynamic world of hotel management. This choice was influenced by her love for working with people, her linguistic abilities, and her enthusiasm for travel – all hallmarks of a successful career in hospitality.
Her educational journey took her to the prestigious César Ritz Colleges in Switzerland, where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for a career that would span continents and cultures. The two-year program not only provided Carine with essential industry knowledge but also forged lifelong friendships and connections that would prove invaluable in her future endeavors.
A Career Defined by Excellence and Adaptability
Carine’s professional journey is a testament to her adaptability and excellence in the hospitality industry. Her career began with a two-year stint at Hilton, where she gained crucial experience and confirmed her passion for the field. This was followed by a remarkable seven-year tenure with Disney, including being part of the opening team for Euro Disney in Paris. Her time with Disney left an indelible mark on her professional ethos, instilling values and qualities that she considers unmatched in the industry.
Perhaps one of the most exciting chapters in Carine’s career was her involvement with the pre-opening of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab in Dubai, where she served as the Director of Guest Services. This experience, which she describes as “unforgettable,” showcases her ability to thrive in high-pressure, pioneering environments within the luxury hospitality sector.
Balancing Career and Family: A New Chapter
Сarine’s story takes a poignant turn as she discusses her decision to step back from her high-flying career to focus on family. In 2005, upon moving to Cyprus with her husband, who is also in the hotel industry, Сarine made the conscious choice to prioritize motherhood. This decision, while challenging for someone who describes herself as a former “workaholic,” opened new avenues for personal growth and entrepreneurship.
Her transition from hospitality executive to mother and entrepreneur is a narrative that resonates with many women facing similar crossroads in their careers. Сarine’s experience highlights the ongoing challenges women face in balancing professional ambitions with family responsibilities, especially in demanding industries like hospitality.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Continued Success
Сarine’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to explore new business opportunities while raising her children. She successfully organized baby expos and launched product lines catering to new mothers, demonstrating her ability to identify market needs and create successful ventures. Her current project, Floral Image Cyprus, showcases her innovative approach to business. This company provides sustainable, lifelike floral arrangements to various establishments, combining aesthetic appeal with environmental consciousness.
This venture not only satisfies Сarine’s creative impulses but also addresses a growing demand for sustainable, low-maintenance decor solutions in the hospitality and business sectors. Her success in this field illustrates her ability to adapt her skills and experiences from the hospitality industry to new and exciting business opportunities.
Reflections on Identity and Success
Throughout the interview, Сarine reflects deeply on her multicultural identity and its impact on her personal and professional life. She embraces her diverse background, proudly identifying as both Lebanese and German, with a significant Greek influence. This multicultural perspective has been a significant asset in her career, allowing her to connect with people from various backgrounds and adapt to different cultural contexts with ease.
Сarine’s advice to the younger generation, including her children, is rooted in her experiences: question everything, believe in yourself, and don’t be swayed by the noise of social media and societal pressures. Her favorite quote, “Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen,” encapsulates her positive outlook on life and business.
A Legacy of Adaptability and Innovation
Carine Khoury’s journey from a young girl navigating multiple cultures to a successful businesswoman and mother is a compelling narrative of adaptability, resilience, and innovation. Her story serves as an inspiration not only to those in the hospitality industry but to anyone facing the challenges of balancing career ambitions with personal life and cultural identity.
As she continues to evolve in her entrepreneurial endeavors, Carine Khoury stands as a testament to the power of embracing one’s multicultural background, the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, and the potential for reinvention at any stage of life. Her journey reminds us that success is not just about professional achievements, but also about creating a life that harmoniously blends personal passions, family commitments, and business acumen.
