Business: Destination marketing and management
Born: Ottawa
Biggest business achievement: A tie between helping to develop Indigenous Tourism Entrepreneurship Training and being asked to be a keynote speaker in Kuala Lumpur for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
(Sponsored)
OBJ launches the 2026 Executive Report on Cornwall
Cornwall has emerged as one of Eastern Ontario’s most compelling locations for business investment, thanks to a combination of affordability, strategic positioning, and a steadily growing economic base.
From Davos to WGS: The new mindset of global capital, and what it means for Ottawa
Dr. Anirudh “AK” Kumar sits in CarMa’s headquarters at the ByWard Market, still visibly energized despite having landed from Dubai less than 24 hours ago. The founder and CEO of
Biggest obstacle overcome: COVID-19. I continue to work with my fellow Ottawa Tourism colleagues to ensure our destination is well-positioned and competitive once restrictions are lifted and we’re able to welcome visitors back.
Biggest influences: My amazing parents! From starting out as a marine biologist, to moving halfway across the world and back again, to changing career paths into tourism – throughout it all they have been my biggest cheerleaders.
Biggest lesson learned during COVID-19: Adaptability is key – situations can change quickly and the most effective thing you can do is be ready to roll with the punches.
Charitable involvement: The Indigenous Tourism Collaborative of the Americas
First job: Retail clerk at Gap
Advice I’d give the younger me: Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to speak up.
Favourite pastime: Travel
