Welcome to our Member Spotlight series, where we highlight the incredible women making an impact in the travel and hospitality industries. In each feature, we sit down with a member of Women Leading Travel and Hospitality to discuss their career journey, current challenges and vision for the future.

This week, we’re proud to feature Dr. Maria Rodriguez, Senior Director of Global Ethics & Compliance Training & Communications at Carnival Corporation. With a rich background in leadership, education and ethical business practices — and a personal story shaped by resilience, purpose and a deep commitment to growth — Maria brings a powerful voice to our community.

We hope her insights inspire and empower you, offering a fresh perspective on how to lead with integrity, compassion and vision in a dynamic and ever-evolving industry.

What do you love most about the industry?

I love that the travel and hospitality industry opens doors for people from every walk of life — employees and guests alike — to step into worlds that remind us of our shared humanity, reveal the beauty of our environments and deepen our appreciation for the diversity of our experiences. It creates opportunities to explore new places, immerse ourselves in vibrant cultures and connect with people whose perspectives and stories may be vastly different from our own. Every interaction — whether it’s a shared meal, a guided tour or a chance encounter — has the power to spark curiosity, foster understanding and build connections that transcend borders.

What is something the community may be surprised to learn about you?

I think many people will be surprised to learn that I have raised six incredible kids — two boys and four girls — to adulthood. While I may have given birth to only two of them, all six are truly my children, and I am honored to be an integral part of their lives. I am deeply proud of each one for all that they have accomplished thus far as they continue to overcome challenges and navigate adulthood. I look forward to celebrating their journeys and cheering them on in the years to come.

What are your nonnegotiables when it comes to work-life balance?

My nonnegotiable in the work-life balance is me. Let me explain — people often talk about work-life balance as though it’s just two sides of the same scale. But somewhere in between “work” and “life” is the actual person: me. I have learned that it’s not just about balancing work and life — it’s about creating harmony between all three: Me–Life–Work.

That means being intentional about caring for myself and giving myself what I need to stay healthy, happy and whole. If I am not at my best, I cannot show up fully for the people I love or be the employee I aspire to be. I believe we all need to be purposeful about building our own Me–Life–Work balance because when we put ourselves at the center, everything else falls into place.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

A combination of the two best pieces of advice that I’ve ever received is this: people who change their world — family, neighborhood, community, company, region — don’t just see a problem and wait for someone else to solve it. They see an opportunity to make things better, create a plan and take action. No matter your age, where you live or your position, never lose sight of your power to change your world.

Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to? Why?

I do not have a single favorite place — every destination offers its own unique experiences — but I do have a special love for visiting Caribbean islands. There is something about the warmth of the people, the rhythm of the music and the richness of the food that speaks to me. Maybe it’s because I am from the islands myself, born and raised in Trinidad. Being there always stirs a deep sense of belonging and rekindles the memories of home.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

Earning my doctorate degree is one of my proudest accomplishments — not just because of the degree itself (that’s the icing on the cake), but because of what it represents: perseverance and determination. It took me seven years to complete the program. Along the way, I rewrote sections of my paper three times, worked under two different academic chairs and juggled life’s many demands — being married and raising four kids, relocating my family to a new state, starting a new job and traveling for work.

This achievement means so much because I didn’t just balance life and work — I pushed through every challenge, doubt, insecurity and moment of frustration. I proved to myself that I can overcome whatever gets in my way and accomplish anything I set my mind to.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

My advice to the next generation of female leaders:

  • Turn every experience into a lesson. Use every obstacle, challenge, failure and win as fuel to learn, grow and evolve into the best version of yourself.
  • Stay open, adaptable and curious. Embrace change, keep learning and surround yourself with inspiring people whose perspectives you value.
  • Lead with humility and vision. Be a leader who knows when to follow as well as lead. Create spaces where your team can flourish and open doors for others to succeed.

Apply today to join our community of trailblazing women like Maria, and gain access to powerful connections, inspiring stories and valuable leadership insights in the travel and hospitality industry.