Congratulations to the Shine On Award winners! Your outstanding achievements and dedication have set a shining example for others to follow. Your hard work and commitment have made a significant impact, and we are thrilled to celebrate your success. Keep shining brightly!
2025 Winners
Grand Prize Winner/Exceptional Service: Tour Services
Amélia Sawyer-Masse, Canadian Museum of History
Amélia Sawyer-Masse, Program Interpreter at the Canadian Museum of History, brings over three and a half years of experience delivering tours, programs, and interactive experiences for visitors across both the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum. Known for her warmth and storytelling ability, Amélia builds meaningful connections through interpretation, dialogue, and engagement. Her background in art history informs her work, especially when interpreting Indigenous artworks and themes of resilience and vibrancy. Through her inclusive approach, she helps visitors connect with history and culture, creating experiences that are educational, reflective, and inspiring.
Exceptional Leader
Jamie Estey, Escapade Music Festival
Jamie Estey, Staff and Volunteer Director at Escapade Music Festival, leads a team of approximately 70 staff and volunteers across multiple operational areas. Overseeing recruitment, training, and live event execution, Jamie prioritizes safety, accessibility, and service excellence. Her inclusive leadership style ensures guest feedback is heard and translated into meaningful improvements that elevate the festival experience.
Exceptional Service: Hotel
Linda Akosua Amepome, DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown
Linda Akosua Amepome, Guest Services Agent at the DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown, is known for addressing concerns before they escalate. She listens carefully, responds with empathy, and follows through with practical solutions tailored to each guest. Whether arranging a room change or providing a service recovery gesture, Linda focuses on restoring confidence and strengthening loyalty. Her accountability and composure consistently turn difficult moments into positive outcomes.
Exceptional Service: Heart of House
Edith Larmond, Ottawa Marriott Hotel
Edith Larmond, Housekeeping Uniform Room at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, plays an essential behind-the-scenes role, ensuring staff uniforms are organized, maintained, and ready each day. From managing dry cleaning to handling urgent garment needs, her precision and reliability keep operations running smoothly. Edith’s steady presence allows her colleagues to perform confidently, knowing they are supported by her care and attention to detail.
Exceptional Service: Guest Relations
Craig Petter, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group
Craig Petter, Guest Services Lead at Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group, delivers high-energy service across live sporting and entertainment events. Balancing frontline support with team leadership, Craig ensures every guest interaction is efficient, welcoming, and memorable. Known for his strong sense of ownership and pride, he approaches each event with enthusiasm and professionalism, helping create seamless experiences for thousands of attendees.
Exceptional Service: Restaurant/Culinary
Jean Brillant, Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre
Jean Brillant, Restaurant Host at Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre, has devoted nearly 40 years to frontline hospitality. A steady and trusted presence, Jean has intentionally remained in a guest-facing role to maximize his impact. Known for his warm welcome and attentive approach, he ensures every guest feels recognized and valued. His professionalism and genuine care turn routine visits into memorable experiences.
Exceptional Service: Shopping
Noémie Blanc-Richer, Parc Oméga
Noémie Blanc-Richer, Team Leader at the Parc Oméga gift shop, is a dedicated retail professional committed to providing exceptional guest experiences. Her structured and thoughtful approach to service ensures that every visitor receives consistent and attentive support. Noémie oversees daily shop operations, coordinates her team’s schedules, and maintains product presentation while ensuring accurate orders and inventory. Her proactive problem-solving, practical guidance, and calm presence help visitors navigate questions or concerns, making each shopping experience smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
Exceptional Service: Attraction
Roch Clément, Casino du Lac-Leamy
Roch Clément, Head Doorman at the Hilton Lac-Leamy, is a cornerstone of the guest experience. With nearly 25 years in the role, Roch ensures seamless arrivals through doorman operations, valet parking, and luggage assistance. Known for remembering guest names and preferences, he creates a welcoming and personal first impression for every visitor. His reliability, professionalism, and genuine warmth help make each stay feel familiar and inviting, leaving guests with a lasting sense of comfort and connection.
Exceptional Service: Festival/Banquet/Event
Jenna Stokes, Brookstreet Hotel
Jenna Stokes, Events Manager at the Brookstreet Hotel, supports a wide range of group bookings and private events, from small gatherings to celebrations of up to 350 guests. Jenna excels at understanding client priorities and tailoring experiences to meet them, adapting quickly to varying event styles. Her foresight, flexibility, and personalized approach ensure that each event reflects the client’s unique vision, creating memorable experiences that consistently exceed expectations.
Exceptional Service: Transportation
Sadek Jaber, VIA Rail
Sadek Jaber, Senior Service Attendant Service Engineer for VIA Rail, is based in Ottawa and responsible for passenger service, onboard safety, and operational readiness along the Quebec City–Windsor corridor. Recognized for his professionalism, calm presence, and inclusive approach, Sadek consistently earns praise from passengers for his attentiveness and exceptional care, demonstrating a deep commitment to service excellence through his ability to anticipate needs, resolve challenges in real time, and create positive experiences for families and individuals alike.
2024 Winners
Exceptional Leader
Madison Roszell-Johnston
Madison Roszell-Johnston, Manager on Duty at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company, is known for her positive energy and unwavering support for her team. With over a decade in hospitality, Madison’s caring nature ensures a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and staff. Her hands-on approach and commitment to staff well-being create a motivated and cohesive team that delivers top-notch service every time.
Exceptional Service: Hotel
Pirami Anandasundaram
Pirami Anandasundaram, Front Desk Agent at Andaz Ottawa Byward Market, brings a warmth and positivity that makes every guest feel at home. His adaptable nature allows him to excel beyond his role, often stepping in to assist with valet services. Pirami is known for his initiative, whether enhancing guest experiences or supporting his coworkers. His thoughtful touches, like decorating rooms for special occasions, ensure that guests leave with unforgettable memories.
Exceptional Service: Heart of House
Elisabeta Jurca
Elisabeta Jurca, Room Attendant at The Westin Ottawa, is the heart of her team, bringing a tireless work ethic and an unwavering dedication to both guests and colleagues. She never hesitates to take on additional tasks, even those outside her responsibilities, simply because she cares. Elisabeta’s thoughtful approach ensures each guest enjoys an exceptional experience, and her kindness makes everyone feel valued. She truly embodies the spirit of hospitality.
Exceptional Service: Guest Relations
Raphaël Fitzgerald-Biernath
Raphaël Fitzgerald-Biernath, Chef Concierge at Fairmont Château Laurier, is an inspiring leader who ensures both guests and colleagues have the best possible experience. Always up to date with Ottawa’s events, he shares valuable insights to enhance guests' stays. Raphaël takes every opportunity to recognize and uplift his team, nominating colleagues for Employee of the Year and encouraging continuous learning. His attention to detail is unmatched—whether drawing the Château Laurier in welcome cards or arranging personalized amenities like edible chocolate portraits for special occasions, he creates truly memorable moments.
Exceptional Service: Restaurant/Culinary
Robin Courtiade
Robin Courtiade, Floor Manager at Parc Oméga, is a dynamic leader who ensures flawless service from reservation to final farewell. With experience in prestigious Parisian and Côte d’Azur restaurants, Robin has elevated OmegaBon’s dining experience by curating a cocktail program and championing local beverages. His mentorship has transformed his team, guiding new hires to excellence and fostering a loyal, high-performing staff. Organized, patient, and full of energy, Robin is a driving force behind the restaurant’s success.
Exceptional Service: Tour Services/Shopping
Colin Lemire
Colin Lemire, Customer Experience Ambassador at the Royal Canadian Mint, transforms every tour into a personalized and engaging experience. His enthusiasm and ability to connect with guests ensures they leave with lasting memories. Fluent in both French and English, Colin effortlessly tailors each tour to suit his audience, making it inclusive and engaging for everyone. His high energy, humor, and teamwork make him an integral part of the Mint’s exceptional visitor experience.
Exceptional Service: Attraction
Roxanne Eisner
Roxanne Eisner, Manager of Guest Services at Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group, is a versatile and enthusiastic leader at TD Place. Roxanne’s adaptability allows her to excel in multiple roles, from ushering to merchandise management. Her proactive approach ensures her team is equipped with the tools and knowledge they need, resulting in consistently excellent service and a positive atmosphere for guests.
Exceptional Service: Festival/Banquet/Event
Sarah Lightizer
Sarah Lightizer, Catering Sales Manager at Holiday Inn and Suites Kanata, has brought an uplifting and positive energy to her team since joining just nine months ago. Her dedication to creating seamless and memorable events, paired with her caring approach, has quickly made her a cornerstone of the team. Sarah’s commitment to guest satisfaction is evident in every event she manages.
2023 Award winners
Exceptional Service: Hotel/Grand Prize Winner
Nikolay Stanchlov
Nikolay Stanchulov, a seasoned Front Desk Agent from Les Suites Ottawa, embodies exceptional guest service and dedication. His willingness to answer last-minute calls and provide outstanding service, even in challenging situations, has created lasting experiences for the hotel guests. Nikolay likes to include thoughtful gestures when possible to ensure guests have a memorable stay.
Exceptional Service: Festival/Banquet/Event
Sirma Martineau
Sirma Martineau, a banquet server at Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre sets a high standard for excellence with unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. She fosters positive team dynamics and contributes to a warm and collaborative work environment. Sirma's meticulous attention to detail, proactive engagement, effective problem-solving, and genuine passion for hospitality collectively define her consistent excellence in service delivery.
Exceptional Service: Attraction
RaeAnn Davey
RaeAnn Davey, Business Development and Administration at Fulton's Sugar Bush and Maple Shop is a vital member of the team. With a strong commitment to customer service, RaeAnn ensures seamless experiences, from initial contact to delivery. Known for her efficiency, passion, and timely communication, she goes above and beyond to support both individual customers and wholesale partners, fostering business growth and community collaboration at Fulton's.
Exceptional Service: Heart of House
Maureen Clawson
Maureen Clawson, Houseperson at Hyatt Place Ottawa West, epitomizes dedication with her catchphrase, "I'm on it!" Known for maintaining impeccable public spaces, she goes beyond her duties to assist colleagues, even pitching in with breakfast, laundry, and maintenance tasks. Her positive attitude shines, and she extends kindness through handmade gifts, mentorship, and nurturing a flower garden for hotel bees. Maureen's exceptional commitment sets a daily standard of going above and beyond.
Exceptional Service: Guest Relations
Ryan Taylor
Ryan Taylor, Front Desk Agent at Andaz Ottawa Byward Market, stands out for his unique ability to connect and uplift guests. Guests praise his professionalism, friendliness, and out-of-the-box ways of making their stay special. His impact is evident in numerous positive reviews, showcasing his energy and genuine passion for creating memorable experiences.
Exceptional Leader
Amisha Chudasama
Amisha Chudasama, Rooms Operations Manager at The Westin Ottawa Hotel, embodies excellence in hospitality. With a hands-on leadership approach, she fosters a vibrant workplace, organizing successful initiatives and driving positive workplace engagement. Amisha has crafted an informative guidebook for new hotel hires, which includes detailed instructions accompanied by visual aids and on the fundamentals of room preparation to set clear expectations and communicate clearly.
Exceptional Service: Restaurant/Culinary
Zooyoun Kim
Zooyoun Kim, Food and Beverage Manager at Dhruvees Restaurant, is committed to elevating guest service. Her commitment to providing outstanding service and going above and beyond expectations truly sets her apart. She is cherished by colleagues for her hard work, efficiency, and team-oriented approach. She is a true brand ambassador, leaving a lasting impression on every guest.
Exceptional Service: Tour Services
Megan Williams
Megan Williams is a Tours Coordinator at Ottawa Yacht Tours. Known for her bubbly, helpful, and caring nature, Megan is a reliable team player who is making waves in the industry. Megan’s has innovative solutions to problems and fosters collaboration, excels in customer service, and showcases a commitment to professional development.
