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Lifetime Achievement Awards

Presented by

Destination Toronto

 

 

This award, handed out annually at the Canadian Tourism Awards gala, recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution of energy, service and talent towards the growth of the Canadian tourism industry, through volunteer work, service or business accomplishments. Focusing on tourism building, the recipient demonstrates leadership, vision and innovation built on a solid foundation of strong values and sound business strategies.

Nominees for the Lifetime Achievement Award should be individuals who have:

  • Dedicated the majority of their professional career to the tourism sector;
  • Made an outstanding personal contribution to the tourism sector;
  • Helped to create growth in Canada’s tourism sector through innovation, astute business practices and the development of new opportunities;
  • Demonstrated leadership in the industry through their engagement with tourism partners at the local, provincial and/or national levels;
  • Left a positive and lasting legacy with the people with whom they have worked.

Nominees are generally retired or in the twilight of their tourism careers.

2024 Destination Toronto Canadian Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

Cindy Ady – Former CEO of Tourism Calgary  

 

Cindy Ady’s impact as CEO of Tourism Calgary has been transformative for Alberta’s tourism industry. Through strategic partnerships and innovative marketing, she has positioned Calgary as a top travel destination, boosting the local economy and setting new standards for tourism growth. Her influence extends province-wide, having served as Alberta’s Minister of Tourism, Parks, and Recreation, where she focused on sustainability and responsible development. Cindy’s legacy resonates across Alberta, strengthening the tourism industry and building resilience for future growth. 

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Cathy Duke – Former CEO of Destination St. John’s 

 

As the former CEO of Destination St. John’s, Cathy Duke has been instrumental in elevating Newfoundland and Labrador as a must-visit destination. Her visionary approach promoted Atlantic Canada on both national and international stages, establishing St. John’s as a premier tourism hub. Her commitment to inclusive tourism has set a new standard across Canada, with her Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy becoming a model for other DMOs. Her influence was recently celebrated with the 2024 Event Atlantic Chair’s Award, highlighting her significant contributions to the tourism and event landscape of Atlantic Canada. 

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Josef Ebner – Regional Vice-President and Managing Director of the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto  

 

Celebrating nearly 60 years in hospitality, Josef Ebner has transformed the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, into a landmark known for both luxury and community service. His leadership in creating programs like “Chelsea CARES” has raised over $1.5 million for the SickKids Foundation and provided essential services to families in need. Known for his commitment to sustainable practices, Josef’s initiatives earned the Chelsea Hotel prestigious environmental certifications, setting a high bar for Canadian hospitality. In 2024, he was inducted into the Greater Toronto Hotel Association Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy of excellence and community impact. 

 
 

Mike and Jeanne Reimer – Founders of Churchill Wild 

 

Mike and Jeanne Reimer have redefined wildlife tourism with the creation of Churchill Wild, which pioneered polar bear walking safaris on the Hudson Bay coast. Since 1993, their dedication to conservation and authentic wildlife encounters has drawn global attention, establishing Churchill Wild’s eco-lodges as a premier destination for Arctic exploration. By prioritizing sustainability and supporting Indigenous culture, Mike and Jeanne have created a tourism legacy that showcases Canada’s northern beauty while protecting it for future generations. Their efforts have fostered local job growth and global awareness of Canada’s northern ecosystem, setting a new standard in eco-tourism.  

 

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Past Recipients

Past Recipients

 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on January 21, 2025
 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on January 21, 2025
 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient posted on May 12, 2023
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