Frontline hospitality staff recognized by Ottawa Tourism with Shine On awards

Recipients of Ottawa Tourism's 2025 Shine On Awards. Photo credit: Ottawa Tourism
Recipients of Ottawa Tourism's 2025 Shine On Awards. Photo credit: Ottawa Tourism

A program interpreter from the Canadian Museum of History has been recognized by Ottawa Tourism with the Shine On Awards grand prize.

Amélia Sawyer-Masse has spent more than three-and-a-half years delivering tours and interactive experiences at the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Children’s Museum. She’s known for her warmth and storytelling ability, Ottawa Tourism said in a news release Tuesday.

“Her background in art history informs her work, especially when interpreting Indigenous artworks and themes of resilience and vibrancy. Through her inclusive approach, she helps visitors connect with history and culture, creating experiences that are educational, reflective and inspiring.”

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The annual Shine On awards ceremony, which was held Tuesday evening, recognizes frontline staff in the hospitality industry for excellence in customer service. A panel of industry experts evaluated the nominations that were collected during the 2025 calendar year and adjudicated the winners for each category, as well as the final Shine On grand prize winner for customer service excellence.

“Frontline staff are the people who make our tourism industry function every day. They are essential to the visitor experience in our hotels, restaurants, venues and attractions,” said Michael Crockatt, president and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. 

“This celebration belongs to them, and we are proud, alongside our members and sector partners, to recognize the vital work they accomplish. Shine On Award recipients exemplify what has built Ottawa’s reputation as a premier destination for leisure travel, business events and major events.”

Sawyer-Masse was one of 10 individuals to receive an award in recognition of their service across a variety of categories. 

This year’s recipients are: 

  • Exceptional Leader: Jamie Estey, Escapade Music Festival
  • Festival/Banquet/Event: Jenna Stokes, Brookstreet Hotel
  • Hotel: Linda Akosua Amepome, DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown
  • Heart of House: Edith Larmond, Ottawa Marriott Hotel
  • Guest Relations: Craig Petter, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group
  • Restaurant/Culinary: Jean Brillant, The Delta Ottawa
  • Tour Services: Amélia Sawyer‑Masse, Canadian Museum of History
  • Shopping: Noémie Blanc‑Richer, Parc Oméga
  • Attraction: Roch Clément, Casino du Lac‑Leamy
  • Transportation: Sadek Jaber, VIA Rail

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