Employee of the Year

Abraham brings world-class hospitality to every visitor at Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites by transforming routine service into meaningful, memorable experiences. Discovered while driving for Uber, Abraham was encouraged to apply due to his warmth, care and ability to elevate every interaction with generosity and professionalism. His natural kindness strengthens team collaboration, enhances visitor comfort and builds a welcoming and inclusive environment. Abraham is a shining example of what human-centered service can look like in Manitoba’s tourism industry.

Sébastien brings Manitoba’s Francophone history to life through innovative, bilingual, and immersive cultural experiences under his leadership at Maison Gabrielle-Roy. Since 2017, he has organized major cultural programming including storytelling festivals, literary salons, youth camps and Franco-Manitoban celebrations while nearly tripling attendance at Doors Open Winnipeg to attract hundreds of visitors each year. Building strong community partnerships, staging dramatic tours and creating a multi-level immersive exhibition, Sébastien has modernized Maison Gabrielle-Roy and helped to advance Francophone tourism.

Purav serves a side of hospitality with every Spruce Catering event creating personable and memorable experiences. As Event Manager, he blends operational precision with “unreasonable hospitality,” surprising guests with truly thoughtful touches, like a bride’s favourite snacks or photos of a beloved pet, while ensuring every dietary need and local ingredient is celebrated. Beyond delighting visitors, Purav mentors staff, fosters inclusive and confident service and elevates Winnipeg’s reputation for guest-centred experiences.

Fran brings hospitality to life at The Fort Garry Hotel’s Oval Room Brasserie, turning every meal into a personal, memorable experience. With more than three decades of service, she anticipates guest needs with a warmth and attention to detail that makes travelers from across Manitoba and around the world feel genuinely welcomed and at home. From welcoming visitors either going or returning from their adventures exploring northern lights, belugas and polar bears in Churchill to mentoring new staff, Fran blends professionalism, charm and ample humour into everything she does. Her care and connection create lasting impressions that inspire repeat visits and cultivate a culture of hospitality excellence.

Kurt has become part of the heart and soul of the Aikens Lake Wilderness Lodge experience, transforming every fishing trip into a story-rich adventure where guests connect deeply with Manitoba’s wilderness. As head guide, he shares expert knowledge of the environment and models strong conservation practices to teach new recruits. During the 2025 wildfires, Kurt spearheaded getting staff and visitors to safety, demonstrating courage and leadership under extreme conditions. By mentoring staff, promoting the lodge and creating unforgettable experiences, Kurt sets the bar for guiding integrity in Manitoba.

Yvonne’s leadership at ArtsForward Art & Cultural Centre is transforming Neepawa as an arts and cultural destination. As the driving force behind signature events like ArtFest, public art trails, Indigenous Culture Day, the farmer’s market, Super Saturday and the Glorious Christmas Wish Sale, she tirelessly promotes the arts and spearheads events that drive visitation to the region. By building strong partnerships with local businesses, schools and organizations, Yvonne brings passion and commitment to strengthen Neepawa as a premiere arts destination and cultural hub.