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HSMAI Ontario Returns to the Fairmont Royal York for Its 2nd Annual Hospitality Tribute Gala Celebrating Excellence - Press Release
Industry Leaders, General Managers, and Hospitality Professionals Invited to an Exclusive Evening of Recognition, Networking & Celebration — April 29, 2026
TORONTO, ON – April 10, 2026 — The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is proud to announce the return of its flagship celebration: the 2026 Hospitality Tribute Gala Celebrating Excellence. Taking place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the iconic Fairmont Royal York in the heart of downtown Toronto, this second annual gathering promises an unforgettable evening dedicated to honouring the outstanding General Managers, their teams, and the industry partners who drive and inspire Ontario's world-class hospitality sector.
Following the resounding success of the inaugural 2025 gala, that drew General Managers, industry leaders, and hospitality professionals from across Ontario and delivered five prestigious awards to the industry's finest, HSMAI Ontario is raising the bar once again with an even more inspiring evening of recognition, and celebration.
"Ontario's hospitality community is one of the most talented, resilient, and passionate in the world — and the Hospitality Tribute Gala exists to celebrate exactly that. Building on the incredible momentum of our inaugural event, this year we are proud to once again shine a spotlight on the General Managers, teams, and industry partners who elevate our sector every single day. Whether you are a long-standing member of HSMAI Ontario or joining us for the first time, this is your evening and we look forward to welcoming you to the Fairmont Royal York for a night of inspiration, connection, and well-deserved recognition."
— Sandra Herriot, President, HSMAI Ontario
An Evening of Prestige and Purpose
This year’s gala will feature five prestigious awards, including the Industry Icon Award, which will be presented to Rosanna Caira in recognition of her extraordinary and enduring contribution to Canadian hospitality. As Editor and Publisher of Kostuch Media Limited and the voice behind Foodservice and Hospitality and Hotelier magazines, Caira has spent decades shaping the conversation around hospitality in Canada through leadership, storytelling, and advocacy.
Her influence extends well beyond publishing. From launching influential recognition programs such as the Pinnacle Awards and Top 30 Under 30 to co-founding WITHORG’s Women in Tourism & Hospitality Summit, she has created meaningful opportunities for connection, recognition, and progress across the sector. Her recent appointment to the Order of Canada is a fitting testament to the legacy she continues to build and the impact she has made on the industry.
Additional award categories will honour excellence across General Management, industry partnership, commercial impact, and emerging leadership. Award recipients will be revealed the evening of the event.
Guests can look forward to an elegantly curated program at the Fairmont Royal York:
- Reception & Networking — 5:00 PM | Cocktails, conversation, and connections with Ontario's top hospitality professionals
- Dinner & Welcome — 6:15 PM | An elegant sit-down dinner hosted by the iconic Fairmont Royal York
- Awards Ceremony | Five prestigious awards presented throughout the evening
- Silent Auction | Open throughout the evening — bid on round-trip flights, airline status upgrades, luxury gift baskets, high-tech items, education programs, hotel stays and more
- Event Conclusion — 9:00 PM
- Dress Code: Cocktail Attire
Where Opportunity Meets Community
The Hospitality Tribute Gala is HSMAI Ontario's most powerful platform for meaningful industry connection. Whether you are a seasoned executive, a rising star, or an industry partner, this is an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the leaders shaping hospitality across Ontario and beyond.
HSMAI Ontario has long served as a vital hub for professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, fostering a community built on shared knowledge, collaboration, and innovation. As part of a global association present in 35 countries, the Ontario chapter connects its members through world-class education, thought leadership, certification programs, and landmark events like the Tribute Gala. All in service of its mission: to grow business by fueling sales, inspiring marketing, and optimizing revenue.
The chapter's commitment to elevating the profession was recognized on the international stage earlier this year, when HSMAI Ontario received four awards at the 2026 HSMAI Mike Leven Leadership Conference in Los Angeles. The ‘Best of the Best’ awards received include Education, Partnerships, Membership Care and Membership Growth for a medium sized chapter. A real honour to the dedication and impact its Board of Directors has towards the hospitality community.
About HSMAI Ontario
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is dedicated to growing business across the hospitality sector through education, collaboration, and leadership. Representing professionals across sales, marketing, revenue management, and travel technology, HSMAI Ontario provides members with tools, insights, certification programs, and networking opportunities designed to advance careers and drive commercial success. With a global footprint spanning 35 countries, HSMAI is the hospitality industry's most trusted resource for professional development and community.
Learn more at www.hsmaiontario.ca
Event Details
| Date | Wednesday, April 29, 2026 |
| Time | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT |
| Venue | Fairmont Royal York |
| Address | 100 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5J 1E4 |
| Dress Code | Cocktail Attire |
| Tickets | Register on Eventbrite |
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, please contact:
Angela Bokma | VP Content, HSMAI Ontario
mail: angela.bokma@flightcentre.ca
www.hsmaiontario.ca
HSMAI Ontario Wins Multiple 2026 “Best of the Best” Chapter Awards - Press Release
HSMAI Ontario Wins Multiple 2026 “Best of the Best” Chapter Awards and Invites Industry to 2nd Annual Hospitality Tribute Gala
TORONTO, ON – March 23, 2026 – HSMAI Ontario is proud to announce it has been honoured with multiple 2026 Frank W. Berkman “Best of the Best” medium-sized chapter awards, including Education, Partnership, Membership Care, and 1st place for Membership Growth. These wins cement Ontario as one of HSMAI’s most active and high-performing chapters in the Americas.
“Ontario’s hospitality community is on the move, and these awards confirm it,” said Sandra Herriot, President of HSMAI Ontario and Chief Development Officer, Ethical Digital. “Our focus is simple: deliver meaningful education, build strong partnerships, and take exceptional care of our members; these recognitions show that approach is working.”
“As past president, I’m incredibly proud of how this board and our volunteers rallied to raise the bar,” added Leon Mulder, Immediate Past President of HSMAI Ontario and Associate Director, Strategic Partnerships at Rocket Travel by Agoda. “The momentum we built together is now translating into growth, recognition, and real commercial impact for Ontario’s hospitality community.”
The Frank W. Berkman honours were presented at the 2026 HSMAI Mike Leven Leadership Conference in Los Angeles, which brought together more than 100 chapter leaders from over 30 HSMAI chapters across the Americas. The invitation-only forum focused on chapter performance, commercial strategy, and tools leaders can bring back to their local markets.
Ontario’s Wins
HSMAI Ontario’s four “Best of the Best” medium-sized chapter awards recognize work designed and delivered for professionals across this province:
- Education – For content-rich, commercially focused programming that responds to Ontario’s evolving hospitality landscape.
- Partnership – For strong, strategic collaborations with hotels, brands, service providers, destinations, and educators in Ontario.
- Membership Care – For a high-touch, high-engagement approach to communications, events, and member support.
- 1st Place – Membership Growth – For significant membership gains as more leaders and rising talent choose to connect through HSMAI Ontario.
Building on this momentum, HSMAI Ontario will host its 2nd Annual Hospitality Tribute Gala – Celebrating Excellence on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Fairmont Royal York in downtown Toronto. The evening will honour Ontario’s General Managers, their teams, and industry partners who are setting the standard for leadership, innovation, and guest experience.
The gala will feature an elevated dining experience at the iconic Fairmont Royal York, awards presentations including a Hospitality/Industry Icon Achievement Award and additional leadership honours, plus the ever-popular silent auction supporting future HSMAI Ontario education and programming.
Why Ontario’s Hospitality Leaders Should Attend
The 2026 gala is a high-impact evening for leadership teams, partners, and rising stars across the province. Celebrate your teams in a premium setting, host clients and partners surrounded by many of Ontario’s hospitality best, connect with decision-makers across brands, ownership groups, management companies, and key partners, and support the industry as auction proceeds fund future education, networking, and commercial-focused programming for Ontario’s hospitality community. Tickets are available for HSMAI members and non-members, with individual seats and table options ideal for bringing teams and clients.
“Coming off our 2026 ‘Best of the Best’ wins, this year’s gala is the moment for Ontario to celebrate how far we’ve come and of course, what’s next,” said Herriot. “If you lead a hotel, manage a hospitality team, or influence the guest experience in this province, you should be in the room.”
For full gala details, sponsorship opportunities and to purchase tickets, visit: https://www.hsmaiontario.ca/events.
About HSMAI Ontario
HSMAI Ontario is committed to advancing the province’s hospitality industry through education, collaboration, and professional development. Representing professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, HSMAI Ontario provides access to industry insights, events, and a strong peer network focused on commercial performance.
Media Contact:
Angela Bokma
VP Content, HSMAI Ontario | Director of Marketing
Angela.Bokma@flightcentre.ca | 416.871.2500
HSMAI 2025 Hospitality Award Recipients - Press Release
HSMAI Ontario Celebrates Inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala with Resounding Success
TORONTO, ON – April 24, 2025 – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is thrilled to reflect on the overwhelming success of its inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala, held at the iconic Fairmont Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto. The exclusive event brought together General Managers, industry leaders, and hospitality professionals from across Ontario to celebrate leadership, innovation, and excellence in the Canadian hospitality sector.
“The energy and enthusiasm at our first-ever Hospitality Tribute Gala exceeded all expectations,” said Leon Mulder, President of HSMAI Ontario and Senior Partner Manager at Rocket Travel by Agoda. “It was an honour to recognize the incredible talent and dedication that drives our industry forward. We’re deeply grateful to all our sponsors for their generous support in making this grand night possible.”
A Night of Prestigious Honours
The gala recognized outstanding contributions with five distinguished awards:
- Industry Icon Achievement Award – Tony Pollard, former President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founder of Green Key Global Tony, a visionary in sustainability and hospitality leadership, spent 25 years as President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founded Green Key Global, the world's largest energy and environmental rating program for hotels. His contributions to policy, education, and sustainability have left a lasting impact on the industry.
- General Manager of the Year – Rob Housez, Chelsea Hotel Toronto
- Industry Partner of the Year – Chris Siedel, Encore Canada
- Rising Star – Jennifer Luke, Germain Hotels
- Commercial Impact Member of the Year – Mark Koop, Best Western Plus Toronto Airport
Congratulations to all the recipients.
An Evening of Celebration & Giving Back
Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, inspiring speeches, and an exciting auction, with proceeds supporting future HSMAI initiatives. The elegant setting of the Royal York Hotel provided the perfect backdrop for networking and celebration.
“We hope everyone had a fantastic evening—connecting with peers, enjoying the incredible food, and bidding on some amazing auction items,” added Leon Mulder. “This is just the beginning. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year for another unforgettable night of celebration. Stay tuned for the 2026 date announcement — you won’t want to miss it!”
Gratitude to Our Sponsors
HSMAI Ontario extends heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who contributed to bringing this epic inaugural event to life:
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- Encore Canada
- Fox Fold
- Rogers Business
- 6pmStudios
- Magic Moments
- Ignite Magazine
- Rocky Mountain Soap Company
The HSMAI Ontario Hospitality Tribute Gala was a resounding success, bringing together the brightest minds in hospitality for an evening of recognition, camaraderie, and inspiration. The energy in the room was displayed the passion and dedication that define our industry. As we reflect on this milestone event, we extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and attendees for making it truly unforgettable. This is just the beginning — stay tuned for exciting announcements about next year’s gala. The future of hospitality has never looked brighter!
For more information about the chapter events, membership or sponsorship opportunities visit HSMAIOntario.ca.
About HSMAI Ontario
HSMAI Ontario is committed to advancing the hospitality industry through education, collaboration, and professional development. Representing professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, HSMAI fosters a community that drives innovation and excellence in the sector.
Members gain access to valuable resources, including white papers, networking events, and the annual Revenue Optimization Conference.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Angela Bokma
Sr. Director of Marketing | VP Content on the HSMAI Ontario Board of Directors
Angela.Bokma@onvigo.com | 416.871.2500
HSMAI Ontario 2025 Hospitality Tribute Gala – Press Release
HSMAI Ontario Launches Inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala to Celebrate Industry Excellence
Toronto, ON - April 2, 2025- The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala, an exclusive event dedicated to celebrating leadership, innovation, and excellence within the Canadian hospitality industry.
Bringing together General Managers, industry partners, and hospitality professionals from across Ontario, this milestone event will recognize the individuals and organizations that have made a lasting impact on the sector.
"Ontario's hospitality industry is built on resilience, creativity, and outstanding leadership. This gala is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to drive success, innovation, and guest satisfaction," said Leon Mulder, President, HSMAI Ontario and Senior Partner Manager at Rocket Travel by Agoda. "We invite the industry to join us in celebrating the people who are shaping the future of hospitality."
Honoring Excellence: Five Prestigious Awards
The gala will feature five distinguished awards, recognizing both established leaders and rising talent:
- General Manager of the Year - Celebrating exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and commitment to guest satisfaction.
- Industry Partner of the Year - Honouring a supplier or vendor that has provided outstanding products, services, or support to the hotel industry.
- Rising Star - Recognizing a young professional demonstrating leadership and promise in hospitality.
- Commercial Impact Member of the Year - Acknowledging a leader in sales, revenue management, or marketing who has driven measurable success.
- Industry Icon Achievement Award - The event's most prestigious honour, celebrating a visionary whose legacy has shaped Ontario's hospitality industry. Announcing, Tony Pollard, this year's legend!
Tony a visionary in sustainability and hospitality leadership, spent 25 years as President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founded Green Key Global, the world's largest energy and environmental rating program for hotels. His contributions to policy, education, and sustainability have left a lasting impact on the industry.
OPEN CALL FOR NOMINATIONS. Know a deserving leader-or rising talent? Nominate them today >> https://tinyurl.com/muvfrrux.
An Evening to Remember
Set to be one of Ontario's most anticipated hospitality events, the HSMAI Ontario Hospitality Tribute Gala will provide an elegant evening of networking, celebration, and industry recognition.
Leon goes on to say, "The HSMAI Gala isn't just another industry event - it's where Ontario's hospitality heartbeat comes alive. This is where we celebrate the game-changers, the innovators, and the future leaders who make our industry extraordinary. If you're serious about hospitality, you need to be in that room.'
Join us April 23 at the Fairmont Royal York. Tickets are available for both HSMAI members and non-members - don't miss this unforgettable night of celebration! Individual tickets are available or bring the team and celebrate together.
>> https://www.hsmaiontario.ca/events/general-manager-tribute-gala
For more information about the event, membership or sponsorship opportunities visit HSMAIOntario.ca.
About HSMAI Ontario
HSMAI Ontario is dedicated to advancing the hospitality industry through education, collaboration, and professional development. Representing professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, HSMAI fosters a community that drives innovation and excellence in the sector. Members gain access to a range of resources, from white papers to Revenue Optimization Conference insights, all designed for sustainable growth.
Media Contact:
Angela Bokma
Sr. Director of Marketing | HSMAI Ontario Board of Director
Angela.Bokma@onvigo.com
416.871.2500
HSMAI Ontario Shines at Leadership Conference, Wins “Best of the Best” Awards in 2 Categories!
January 2025
Florida - HSMAI Ontario attended the HSMAI Mike Leven Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida on January 29 & 30 at the Hotel Landy. Four representatives from the Ontario chapter (Leon Mulder - Rocket Travel by Agoda, Mimi AuYeung - Ritz-Carlton Toronto, Brendan St Jacques - RoomsRelay Hire, and Kim Dumeah - Travelodge Canada) attended leadership development sessions and networked with leaders from HSMAI chapters across the Americas.
In addition to growth and development, HSMAI Ontario was thrilled to receive the Frank W. Berkman "Best of the Best" awards for Membership and Education. These highly competitive category wins show the dedication and effort put forth by our Board of Directors (Leadership | HSMAI Ontario). None of these awards would be possible without Ontario's engaged and active hospitality community. Chapter President, Leon Mulder says “We’re excited to expand our programming and opportunities in 2025 and I foresee even more awards on the horizon. There are numerous ways for businesses to engage and participate with the chapter, and If you're interested in getting involved, let’s connect!”
Christopher Ashby Board of Directors, VP membership appointed to new position
TORONTO — Chelsea Hotel, Toronto has named Christopher Ashby as Director of Commercial Operations.
Ashby brings 20+ years of sales, marketing and strategic planning experience to his new role on the hotel’s executive management team.
HSMAI Ontario to host Toronto event on June 20
Hospitality Sales Marketing Association International’s (HSMAI) Ontario chapter will be hosting “Trends in the GDS Ecosystem and Strategic Use of Grants to Leverage Revenue” on June 20 at the Park Hyatt Toronto.
Learn More
HSMAI ONTARIO PRESENTS TWO KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AT PARK HYATT TORONTO
TORONTO — HSMAI Ontario: GDS Trends, HOD Audit, Grant Strategies & Networking will be held on June 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Park Hyatt Toronto, featuring keynote speakers Heather Downing (Amadeus Hospitality) and Stephanie Sang (Get Granted).