2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

Past Recipients > 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

posted on November 24, 2025

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.