Leadership Grounded in Passion, Purpose, and Unapologetic Authenticity

Bashar Wali’s lifelong belief in hospitality began in the Middle East, where welcoming strangers was a cultural instinct rather than a profession. After immigrating to the United States and attending Johnson & Wales University, he worked full time while studying hotel restaurant management, performing every role from PBX operator to housekeeping to accounting. He believed that “getting your hands dirty” was the best way to understand people and operations and that experience later shaped his leadership as he rose to become a general manager at age twenty-seven in a large union property.

His career expanded into multi-property management, real estate, and capital before he founded Practice Hospitality and This Assembly. Bashar emphasizes passion as his guiding force, insisting on having “an unapologetic point of view” rooted in love for the industry. Public speaking became a way to give back, helping future leaders find purpose and confidence. His story reflects a commitment to humility, grit, and elevating others through authenticity.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “We overcomplicate hospitality.”
• “I worked in absolutely every department.”
• “I never said no to anything.”
• “If it doesn’t set your soul on fire, it’s not worth the burn.”
• “I want to be known to be passionate about what I do.”

Closing Reflection

Bashar’s journey shows that leadership grounded in passion and authenticity can inspire profound impact. His belief in humility, hard work, and honest conviction encourages others to lead with courage and clarity. By remaining true to one’s values, embracing purposeful work, and uplifting people along the way, he demonstrates how passion can become a powerful force for connection and change.