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Volunteer of the Year

Presented to a volunteer who demonstrates service excellence and has made outstanding contributions to the tourism industry. The nominee has devoted a significant amount of time without financial compensation and has made a long-term positive impact on visitor experience and satisfaction.

Jordon Lanthier – Winnipeg Fringe Festival

Jordon Lanthier’s commitment to community engagement is long-standing and his leadership skills are second to none. For more than 13 years, he’s played an integral role with the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, serving as a team lead for the patio and beer tent operations. He actively spreads joy at Boo at the Zoo and Zoo Lights events, and has also volunteered his time and good nature with the Canada Games, Grey Cup and WPFS run, among others.

Lorraine Thomas – TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival

Lorraine has played a pivotal role in transforming TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival's volunteer program. She spearheaded recruitment, implemented new volunteer software and communication practices, and actively participated as a volunteer herself. Thanks to her efforts, 40,000+ festival-goers now enjoy a refreshed and comprehensive customer service experience, with screened and well-assigned volunteers.

Barb Gluck and Gwen Harp – Gimli Glider Museum

Dedicated volunteers Barb Gluck and Gwen Harp form the backbone of the Gimli Glider Museum, helping to preserve and share the captivating story of the historic aviation incident with visitors from around the world. Their passion for aviation and the Glider story is evident through their work in sharing the thoughtfully curated exhibits, tours and personal anecdotes, which create an immersive experience visitors won’t soon forget.

Pierrette Sherwood – Dawson Trail Art & Heritage Tour

Founder of the Dawson Trail Art & Heritage Tour, Pierrette Sherwood brought together a small— but passionate—group of community members and volunteers to celebrate the artist-residents and history of the Dawson Trail. Her dedication to the grassroots initiative extended from the research phase to the installation of a roadside interpretive exhibit along Dawson Road, as well as a website and map serving as an information hub.

Jenna Boholij – Icelandic Festival of Manitoba

Jenna's journey with the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba began in 2001 as a parade marshal. Over the years, she's risen through the ranks and is currently volunteering on the festival board overseeing branding, social media, communications, sponsorships and spearheading events like the Vingolf Beverage Gardens, Get Dinged, and the Magnus Classic Strong Man Competition. These innovations have modernized the festival, attracted new crowds, and significantly boosted attendance.