Raven Blevins

I attribute my success to perseverance, faith, and the determination to keep moving forward. As the first person in my family to graduate, I was motivated to achieve my goals and show my daughters that it is never too late to pursue your dreams, regardless of your age or circumstances. Above all, I give the glory to God, who has guided me through every challenge. After losing my father and navigating life’s obstacles, I have remained resilient, independent, and committed to becoming the best person I can be.

The best career advice I’ve received has come through my faith and the belief that I am guided through every season of life. I give all the glory to God for providing me with the strength, resilience, and determination to keep moving forward, even during challenging times when I had to rely on my own perseverance. While I may not have had many professional mentors along my journey, I have found inspiration within myself and through the lasting influence of my late father, whose encouragement continues to motivate me to strive for excellence. His belief in my potential reminds me that with faith, hard work, and self-belief, it is possible to overcome obstacles, continue growing, and create a meaningful path toward success.

My advice to young women entering the hospitality industry is to remember that the sky is not the limit—you can go beyond it. It is natural to feel nervous or afraid when starting out, especially in an industry with high expectations and the responsibility of creating positive experiences for others every day. However, it is important to bring your best self forward, even on challenging days. In hospitality, people remember your attitude, your warmth, and your genuine smile. No matter whether you are having a difficult day, a sad day, or a great day, continue showing up with professionalism, kindness, and the commitment to give your best. Those qualities are what truly make a lasting impact.

One of the biggest opportunities in the hospitality industry is the ability to create meaningful connections with people through genuine service and a positive attitude. I believe technical skills can be taught, but kindness, warmth, and the ability to make others feel valued are qualities that truly set people apart. In hospitality, every interaction can shape a guest’s experience, which is why I believe attitude is everything. I often say, “No one wants a bad banana”—people are naturally drawn to positivity, authenticity, and individuals who bring a welcoming presence. A sincere smile, compassion, and a willingness to serve others are what build trust, strengthen relationships, and create memorable experiences.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are positivity, kindness, and authenticity. I believe having a great personality and treating others with respect can make a significant difference in every interaction. A positive attitude creates an environment where people feel valued, welcomed, and appreciated. I often say, “No one wants a bad banana,” because people naturally gravitate toward those who bring warmth, encouragement, and a genuine willingness to connect with others.