AHEAD – the Awards for Hospitality Experience And Design – has named Evan Kwee, Vice-Chairman of Capella Hotel Group, as the recipient of the AHEAD Asia 2026 Outstanding Contribution award.

Kwee will be recognised with the award in just two weeks’ time at the upcoming ceremony at Pan Pacific Orchard Singapore on Friday 11 September, where leading names from the APAC hospitality community will gather to celebrate another year of industry achievements.

As Vice-Chairman of Capella Hotel Group, Kwee sets the vision for its brands and leads product development across the portfolio. Working with leading architects and designers, his approach places a particular emphasis on artistry, craft and considered detail, shaping properties and guest experiences that embody the Capella identity.

Kwee also led the development of Fari Islands in the Maldives, home to Patina Maldives and the industry’s first employee-dedicated island, combining a rigorous approach to design with an entrepreneurial focus on innovation and profitability.

The accolade follows a standout year for Capella at AHEAD Asia. Capella Taipei was named Hotel of the Year in 2025, having also won Hotel Newbuild, while Patina Osaka took home the award for Suite.

The group once again features prominently on this year's shortlist. Capella Kyoto is in contention across Hotel Newbuild, Lobby and Suite, while The Lands by Capella at Capella Sydney is shortlisted in Event Spaces.

Get tickets to the ceremony today, with limited space now remaining.