The Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA) hosted a memorable celebration of excellence and dedication in the hospitality industry during the 11th annual 2024 Spirit Awards gala. Held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the luncheon honoured the achievements of frontline hotel staff across 19 categories, while also unveiling new initiatives from the GTHA.
This year’s event set new attendance records and introduced the Rising Star Award, a category aimed at spotlighting emerging talent in the industry. With 369 nominations received, the Spirit Awards once again highlighted the outstanding calibre of hospitality workers who keep Greater Toronto Area (GTA) hotels running smoothly.
Celebrating a legacy of excellence
Since its inception in 2012, the Spirit Awards have celebrated the unsung heroes of Toronto’s hospitality industry. These awards underscore the critical role of frontline workers in driving the success of the region’s hotels, an industry cornerstone for both local economies and global tourism.
“I have had the privilege of serving as chair of the GTHA Spirit Awards since their inception, and it has been a joy to witness the enthusiasm that surrounds these awards year after year,” says Ashok Baghel, chair of the Spirit Awards Committee and general manager at Hyatt Regency Toronto. “As we look forward to the next century with GTHA, we’re reminded of the invaluable contributions made by individuals in this field. Both our history and future are represented in their work, and that is certainly worth celebrating.”
Introducing the GTHA Hall of Fame
In anticipation of its 100th anniversary in 2025, GTHA also introduced the GTHA Hall of Fame Award, an honour designed to recognize visionary leadership and long-lasting contributions to the hospitality sector. The inaugural inductee is Josef Ebner, regional vice president - Canada and managing director of the Chelsea Hotel.
“Josef’s exceptional career spans more than six decades and includes leadership roles at 14 properties across seven countries,” says Sara Anghel, president and CEO of GTHA. “He has been a staunch advocate for Canadian tourism, participating in international sales missions and serving 32 years at the Chelsea Hotel. We’re proud to recognize Josef for his profound impact on the industry.”
Spotlight on 2024 Spirit Awards winners
The Spirit Awards honoured the exceptional performance of hotel staff in various roles, including culinary arts, security, guest services, and more. The full list of 2024 Spirit Award Winners:
Accounting Ambassador of the Year: Grace Kim, Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites
Sponsored by KPMG Private Enterprise
Administration Ambassador of the Year: Tisha Ramroop-Ramgarib, Omni King Edward
Sponsored by Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP
Banquet Ambassador of the Year: Danuta Orzechowska, Westin Toronto Airport
Sponsored by Gordon Food Service
Bell Person Ambassador of the Year: Michael Galicia, Holiday Inn Airport
Sponsored by Hunter Amenities
Concierge of the Year: Anna Petrik, Intercontinental Toronto Centre
Sponsored by Insuranceland
Culinary Ambassador of the Year: Ramal De Mel, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
Sponsored by Orkin Canada
Door Person Ambassador of the Year: George Chalhoub, St. Regis Toronto
Sponsored by Eminent Valet
Engineering Ambassador of the Year: Leroy Chabilall, Hotel X
Sponsored by HEAT
Food & Beverage Outlets Ambassador of the Year: Cecilia Vicente, Residence Inn by Marriott Toronto Airport
Sponsored by Smart Serve
Guest Services Ambassador of the Year: Allan Dizon, Hyatt Regency Toronto
Sponsored by Kostuch Media Ltd.
Housekeeping Room Attendant Ambassador of the Year: Gemmeni Gabriel, The Ritz-Carlton
Sponsored by Ecolab
Housekeeping Support Services Ambassador of the Year: Francis Licayo, Toronto Marriott City Centre
Sponsored by Ecolab
Laundry Ambassador of the Year: Rena Bisson, Holiday Inn Express Whitby
Sponsored by Victory Laundry
Lifetime Achievement Award: Alex Nahrabeki, Westin Harbour Castle
Sponsored by Group Lockhart
Reservations Ambassador of the Year: Christian Del Castillo, The Pearle Hotel
Sponsored by Meteor Telecommunications
Rising Star Award: Manuel Silva, Radisson Blu Toronto
Sponsored by First Onsite
Security Ambassador of the Year: Ferris Mohammed, Marriott Downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre
Sponsored by Sheer Hospitality Solutions
Steward of the Year: Thanabalasingam Iyathurai, Omni King Edward
Sponsored by Mediclean Inc
Switchboard Operator of the Year: Rowena Baldovino-Heraldo, Westin Harbour Castle
Sponsored by Camdi
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