i-Engage!26
Annual Conference
Venue
The Ismaili Center Houston
2323 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
Date
Thursday, September 17, 2026
Time
7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Conference Agenda
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration & Networking Breakfast
9:00 AM – 9:35 AM
Opening General Session
9:35 AM – 10:45 AM
Keynote Session (Fireside Chat)
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM
Networking Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Morning Breakout Sessions
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Vendor Connection Forum
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Networking Lunch
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Networking & Ismaili Center Tour
5:00 PM
Conference Concludes
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Networking Reception
Registration & Networking Breakfast
7:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Conference Registration & Check-In
Location: Level 1 – West Atrium
7:30 AM – 8:45 AM
Networking Breakfast
Location: Level 3 – Social Hall
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM
Attendees Take Their Seats
Location: Level 3 – Social Hall
Opening General Session
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Conference Opening Remarks & Welcome
9:30 AM – 9:35 AM
Proclamation Declaration
Location: Level 3 – Social Hall
Keynote Session (Fireside Chat)
Moderator
Nilufar Ramji – Public Affairs Leader at NASA
Featured Speaker
Mahmood Khimji
Session Topic
To Be Announced
Morning Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 1
Beyond the Keys: Hotels as an Investment
Moderator
Lisa Lombardo, ARK Hospitality
Speakers
- Rahim Charania | Founder and Managing Partner of Woodvale
- Robert Webster | President, Chief Executive Officer of Anchor Hospitality Group, LLC
Session Description
Why hotels belong in a diversified investment portfolio—and how to evaluate them like one.
This session explores historical hotel performance compared to other real estate asset classes, sets realistic return expectations across market cycles, and examines the tax advantages that make hospitality an attractive investment. Ideal for anyone evaluating hotels alongside other investment opportunities.
Breakout Session 2
From Capital to Closing: Structuring Successful Hotel Investment Partnerships
Moderator
Ryan Bosch | Principal, Arriba Capital
Speakers
- Pat Murtaugh, CPA | Tax Partner at Brown Edwards
- Adnan Merchant | MW Law
- Bijal Patel | Sonari Capital
Session Description
A practical playbook for Limited Partners (LPs) entering hotel investments.
Learn how to interpret market studies, understand partnership agreements, stress-test financial projections, evaluate investment opportunities, compare hotel deals against alternative investments, and prepare for successful exit strategies that maximize returns.
Vendor Connection Forum
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Meet with conference sponsors and exhibitors throughout the day.
Location: Central Atrium – Level 1
Networking Lunch
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Level 3 – Social Hall
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
Breakout Session 3
Inside the Operator’s Playbook: Practical Lessons from Experienced Hoteliers
Moderator
Tena Sachu | Director, Owner Relations at Hilton
Speakers
- Shaiza Damji | Principal & Managing Director, 360 Degree Hotel Group
- Navroz Saju | Founder and Principal at HDG Legacy, LLC
Session Description
What it really takes to operate hotels—not just own them.
This discussion focuses on managing portfolios of two to five hotels, covering staffing, operational systems, leadership, and the fundamentals that distinguish successful hotel operations. Panelists will share practical insights every operator should know from day one.
Breakout Session 4
Succession Planning: Real-World Lessons from Families Who Have Made the Transition
Moderator
Aly Valiani | New Horizon Hospitality & IHA USA Board Member
Speakers
- Alisha Adam & Shakil Adam | Evergreen Hospitality Group
- Al-Karim Khimji & Amin Khimji | Shirin Group
Session Description
A candid conversation for families preparing to transition hospitality businesses to the next generation.
This session explores succession planning, leadership transitions, preserving family legacies, and empowering future leaders while maintaining the values and vision that built successful hospitality businesses.
Networking & Ismaili Center Tour
Enjoy dedicated networking time while exploring the beautiful Ismaili Center Houston.
Guided tours are available by scheduled reservation.
Location: Throughout the Ismaili Center Houston
Conference Concludes
The i-Engage!26 Conference concludes.
Networking Reception
Celebrate the close of an inspiring day by networking with fellow attendees, sponsors, speakers, and industry leaders.
Open to all registered attendees, sponsors, vendors, and speakers.
Location: Off-site. To Be Announced.
Keynote Speaker: Mahmood Khimji
Mahmood Khimji is a founding Principal of Highgate, an industry-leading real estate investment and management firm, and has been involved in all aspects of Highgate’s development since its founding in 1988. Prior to founding Highgate, Mr. Khimji practiced law at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison.
Mr. Khimji is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sagicor Financial Corporation. He also serves on the Board of Directors of American Hotel Income Properties and is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), Chief Executives Organization (CEO), and the Real Estate Forum.
Mr. Khimji also serves on the boards of Aga Khan Museum and the Asia Society. Additionally, he serves on the Board of Trustees for St. Mark’s School of Texas and on the Board of Visitors for Columbia Law School.
He attended the University of British Columbia, where he earned a B.A., summa cum laude, before receiving his J.D. from Columbia Law School.
Accommodations
Home2 Suites by Hilton Houston Downtown Convention Center
1540 Leeland Street Houston, TX 77002
i-Engage!26 Conference FAQs
Who should attend the conference?
The conference is designed for hotel owners, operators, investors, management professionals, industry suppliers, and hospitality leaders seeking education, networking, and business growth opportunities.
Why should I attend?
Attendees gain industry insights, practical strategies, valuable business connections, and access to hospitality leaders and solution providers.
What is included with my registration?
Registration includes access to all conference sessions, networking opportunities, breakfast, lunch, and the networking reception.
Can I register multiple attendees from my company?
Yes. Group registrations are welcome.
What is the registration deadline?
Spots are limited and registration will close once capacity is reached. Register by July 1, 2026, to secure our Early Bird pricing and save on your registration fee.
What topics will be covered?
Topics will cover the latest hospitality trends, hotel operations, revenue growth, technology and AI, workforce development, leadership, investment strategies, hotels as an asset class, LP investing, second-generation family businesses, and industry best practices.
Will there be educational sessions?
Yes. The conference features keynote presentations, panel discussions, and breakout sessions led by industry experts.
Who are the speakers?
The conference brings together respected hospitality leaders, owners, operators, executives, and industry experts from across the country. A detailed agenda and speaker lineup will be announced closer to the event.
What networking opportunities are available?
Attendees can participate in the Networking Breakfast, Conference Lunch, Breakout Sessions, and Networking Reception, all designed to encourage meaningful business connections.
How can I connect with sponsors and vendors?
Sponsors and exhibitors will be available throughout the conference to discuss products, services, and partnership opportunities.
Will there be opportunities to meet hotel owners and decision-makers?
Yes. The conference attracts hotel owners, executives, investors, and industry leaders from across the hospitality sector.
Where is the conference being held?
Ismaili Center Houston. Please use the West Dallas Street entrance (2290 West Dallas Street) to access the Center.
What makes this year's venue special?
Since you're hosting at the Ismaili Center Houston, this is a great opportunity to highlight the architecture, hospitality, and unique setting.
Is parking available?
Yes. Complimentary parking is available at the Ismaili Center Houston in Lower Level 1 (LL1) and Lower Level 2 (LL2) parking garages.
What is the conference dress code?
Business professional or business casual.
Do I need to be an IHA USA member to attend?
No. Both members and non-members are welcome. If you are interested in becoming a member first, please email us at: admin@i-hospitalityallianceusa.com
Are discounted rates available for IHA USA members?
Yes. Members receive preferred registration pricing and other benefits.
How can I become an IHA USA member?
Membership is exclusively available to members of the Ismaili Community. For membership inquiries, please email: admin@i-hospitalityallianceusa.com
How can my company become a sponsor?
Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels and provide valuable visibility and engagement with attendees. Please email us: admin@i-hospitalityallianceusa.com
Are exhibitor opportunities available?
Yes. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please email us: admin@i-hospitalityallianceusa.com
Are discounted hotel rates available?
We are currently finalizing our conference hotel room block and will share additional details soon.
What airports are closest to the venue?
For guests traveling to the Ismaili Center, Houston, there are two convenient airport options. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is located approximately 12–15 miles from the venue and typically requires a 20–30 minute drive, depending on traffic. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is approximately 25–30 miles away, with an estimated drive time of 30–45 minutes. Travel times may vary based on traffic conditions and the time of day.
What nearby accommodations do you recommend?
We recommend the following hotel accommodations within a short Uber ride (typically 3–10 minutes) of the Ismaili Center Houston. 1. Thompson Houston – Premium host-hotel experience, closest to venue. 2. Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites – Best value and very close. 3. Embassy Suites Downtown – Great for families and groups. 4. The Whitehall Houston – Classic business hotel. 5. Hotel ICON – Unique Houston experience for out-of-town guests.