Sheila Johnson discusses economic engines amid polarization

In the United States, Sheila Johnson, founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels, has been integrating art that celebrates Black culture into her resort in Middleburg, Virginia. This initiative is part of her broader goal to create economic opportunities for the local community, which faced resistance during the hotel’s decade-long development. Johnson, also a cofounder of BET, has invested in sports teams to address the lack of women owners in the industry. The recent Fortune COO Summit highlighted discussions on diversity and leadership, with a focus on the importance of embracing personal values in business. As companies navigate a politically charged environment, leaders like Johnson are recognized for fostering inclusive cultures. The summit also featured insights from various industry leaders on the significance of human capacity in business, amidst the growing influence of AI. The event underscored the need for trust and candor in leadership, especially in challenging times.