The Hospitality Diversity Action Council (HDAC) has announced entrepreneur Darius Davie as the winner of its fourth annual Awards of Excellence. The honor recognizes exemplary work by individuals and companies that are working to advance the hospitality industry through the promotion of diversity, inclusivity, and equity.
Raised in New York and now residing in Maryland, Davie is the cofounder of Groom Guy, a venture that blends luxury hairstyling with wellness in hotels. Davie discovered his passion for business at an early age, and his ambition to become a top men’s hairstylist led him on a global journey to hone his craft.
Identifying a unique opportunity in the hospitality wellness sector, he launched the Groom Guy brand (along with partner Matthew Sears), debuting its first physical space in 2020 inside Yours Truly DC Hotel, part of IHG’s Vignette Collection. A second location opened last year within the V Starr-designed spa at the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
“The essence of our approach lies in the understanding that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all concept,” Davie says. “We’ve recognized the importance of personalization, treating each client’s journey as a bespoke creation.”
Beyond building his own businesses, Davie is active within his community as a mentor and volunteer, including as a frequent speaker at events and fundraisers for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). An alumni of the program, Davie showcases his professional leadership while promoting youth entrepreneurship education. “Darius has become a powerful role model, consistently helping others visualize and pursue their dreams of success,” says Arnie Abram, director of alumni services at NFTE.
Adds V Starr CEO Sonya Haffey: “Darius’ positive attitude, collaborative spirit, and willingness to go above and beyond expectations makes him truly deserving of this prestigious award. The Groom Guy team’s passion for men’s grooming is evident in everything they do, and their impact extends far beyond their immediate sphere of influence.”
Davie, along with all of this year’s HD Awards winners and finalists, will be honored on April 30th during a ceremony at the Four Seasons Las Vegas in conjunction with HD Expo + Conference. Purchase tickets today!
RELATED: Read an interview with Davie and Sears from HD’s September 2023 issue.
