Canadian agents recognized during AMResorts' Amazing Agent Celebration
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
Two Canadian travel advisors were recognized for going above the call of duty at AMResorts’ recent Amazing Agent Celebration at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana.
During a lively masquerade themed gala night for the second annual Be Amazing Awards, Mark Benson, senior director, sales strategy for AMResorts, explained that the concept of the awards is to recognize agents who go above and beyond for the travel industry and their community, rather than focusing solely on sales efforts.
“We thought it was very important last year but to continue the tradition this year, to point out some individuals amongst us, who despite their every day workloads, go over and above in their community to give back, to give back to charity, or encourage and mentor people within in our industry,” he said.
Carolina Bellina, senior director of Canadian sales for AMResorts, presented the first Be Amazing award to Julie Theberge of Club Voyages Montmagny and St-Jean Chrysostome for “inspiring and promoting give back initiatives in her community.”
Theberge has over 20 years of volunteer and charity experience focussed on establishing opportunities for at-risk youth and children in need while showcasing “empathy and compassion” for her community.
“Words fail me to express all my emotion following the honorary distinction that was granted to me. To be highlighted in this way warms my heart,” Theberge told Travel Courier. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication I sow around me. Being put in the spotlight intimidated me but also filled me with deep joy. I thank the people of the AMResorts group for giving me this honour.”
Meanwhile, Claudio Zboznovits, VP of global sales & business development for AMResorts, presented the second award going out to a Canadian advisor to Shalene Dudley of Latitude Concierge Travels for “inspiring leadership and promoting diversity in tourism.”
Dudley was selected for her ongoing commitment and efforts made towards improving the travel industry, including leading sessions on anti-Black racism and raising awareness about mental health issues with Let’s Get Uncomfortable (LGU).
“I am deeply thankful and emotional about it” said Dudley. “I have so much encouragement and positive reinforcement from my friends, team, and colleagues. My family at LGU really shares this award. We work together on all of our initiatives. One voice alone can make noise and be amplified tremendously by the ones aligned and surrounding it.”
All 130 agents in attendance for the Amazing Agent Celebration were treated to a three-night stay at the resort, along with earning a three-night stay at Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club, a new-build resort set to debut on June 30, 2023.
The event featured two days of workshops and panel discussions, and agents also participated in a variety of fun activities like bowling, a catamaran cruise and a ‘60s themed beach party.
