Meet HTIM Graduate: Kenneth Applewhite

Employer: South Ten Hospitality Group, North 12 Hospitality Group & Rosa
Title: Partner/Hospitality Executive
Date of HITM Course Completion: 2026
Location: Southfield, Michigan

Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM business management course? I've been in hospitality for almost 20 years, but I've always believed you should never stop learning. No matter how much experience you have, there's always another level to reach. I enrolled in HTIM because I wanted to sharpen my leadership skills, learn from other industry professionals, and become an even better operator. I wanted to challenge myself and pick up ideas that I could bring back to my own businesses.
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How will this help you step up in your career?
The program gave me a chance to look at our business from a different perspective. It reinforced much of what I've learned over the years while introducing new strategies I can apply to operations, team development, and guest experience. As we continue to grow our brands, I know these lessons will help me build stronger teams and create even better experiences for our guests.

What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking for ways to grow their career?
Don't ever think you've got it all figured out. The hospitality industry changes fast, and the people who continue learning are the ones who stay ahead. Be willing to ask questions, find mentors, take classes, and step outside your comfort zone. Every job, every challenge, and every conversation is an opportunity to grow.

What was your favorite part of the HTIM business management course?
The people. Being in a room with hospitality professionals from diverse backgrounds gave me the chance to hear varied perspectives and learn how others approach the same challenges. The conversations outside the classroom were just as valuable as the lessons inside it.

How long have you been working in the industry?
I've been working in hospitality and entertainment for nearly 20 years.

Can you share more background on your current role?
I'm a partner with South Ten Hospitality Group, where we operate Bloom Southfield and Vice Speakeasy. I'm also a partner with North 12 Hospitality Group, where we recently opened DUO Restaurant & Spirits in Southfield. In addition, I'm a partner in Rosa, a casual café serving specialty coffee, breakfast favorites, and fresh pastries.
Across all our concepts, I focus on operations, marketing, entertainment programming, technology, and creating memorable guest experiences. I love building brands that people genuinely enjoy being a part of.

What was your first job in hospitality? How did you get into this industry?
My career started by promoting parties and producing events while I was in college. I realized pretty quickly that I loved bringing people together and creating experiences they would remember. That passion eventually grew into managing venues, developing brands, and helping open restaurants and nightlife concepts throughout Metro Detroit.

Interesting & fun fact: 
Most people know me from hospitality, but I'm also an event emcee, DJ, and audio-visual producer. I love live entertainment, music, and finding ways to create unforgettable experiences. 

Anything else you'd like to share?
I'm thankful for the opportunity to be part of HTIM and proud to be a graduate. Programs like this remind us that learning doesn't stop once you've found success. There's always another level, and I'm excited to keep growing while helping raise the standard for hospitality here in Michigan. If I can encourage anyone to invest in themselves and their education, I'd say do it. You'll never regret becoming a better leader.

Learn more about HTIM Hospitality Business Management Course

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