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!
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.
