The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (GMCVB) Visitor Industry Council (VIC) will host the 33rd annual Hospitality Open Tournament (H.O.T.) Challenge Golf Tournament on Friday, May 8, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa.
The event will feature a full day of championship golf, networking, and industry engagement, all aimed at supporting Miami-Dade County’s future hospitality workforce. Over its 30-plus-year history, proceeds from the tournament have contributed more than $3.3 million, funding scholarships for more than 450 students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality.
In 2026, the VIC foundation is continuing its partnership with CareerSource South Florida, awarding nine two-year scholarships in collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami’s (BBBS) education and mentorship program. BBBS serves as the lead agency providing mentors for the local Take Stock in Children program. The scholarships will provide Miami-Dade high school students with pathways to careers in tourism and hospitality.
Through the ongoing partnership, VIC, a non-profit 501(c)(3) philanthropic and educational foundation, also pairs its alumni and scholars with BBBS students, reinforcing its commitment to mentorship and workforce development. The initiative provides both financial support and hands-on learning experiences designed to prepare students for successful careers in Miami-Dade County’s leading industry.
“Programs like the H.O.T. Challenge allow our industry to invest directly in the talent that will sustain and strengthen Greater Miami’s visitor economy,” said GMCVB President and CEO David Whitaker. “By fostering mentorship with industry leaders and organizations, we prepare the next generation of skilled industry professionals for career advancement, creating diverse job opportunities and upward mobility.”
The H.O.T. Challenge brings together hospitality leaders and community partners to raise scholarship funds for Miami-Dade students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality — an industry that welcomes more than 28.2 million visitors each year, generates approximately $31.1 billion in economic impact annually and supports more than 209,000 jobs across the county.
“Mentoring is at the heart of Take Stock in Children’s mission. While scholarships and academic support are important, it’s the consistent guidance of a mentor that often makes the biggest difference in a student’s life. Students may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget that you showed up,” said Kevin Espino, Take Stock in Children mentor coordinator.
Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the initiative can participate by registering teams, sponsoring the event, or contributing to scholarship funding. To register a foursome or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit HotChallenge.com.
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