Hospitality leaders from across Ontario are coming together to recognize Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, officially recognized by the Government of Ontario and observed annually on February 23, celebrating the dedication, care, and professionalism of the people who power one of the province’s most people-focused industries.

The day, acknowledged by the Province of Ontario and supported by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, recognizes the contributions of hospitality workers across restaurants, hotels, accommodations, tourism, and foodservice — including front-of-house and back-of-house staff, full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers who serve communities in every corner of the province.

The Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA), Smart Serve Ontario, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), Kingston Accommodation Partners (KAP), Ottawa Gatineau Hotel Association (OGHA), and the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA) collectively recognize the essential role hospitality workers play in welcoming guests, supporting local economies, and creating the moments, memories, and experiences that define Ontario’s cities, towns, and regions.

Ontario’s hospitality workforce represents a significant share of provincial employment. The accommodation and food services sector employs more than 426,000 Ontarians, accounting for over 5% of the total workforce. It is also one of the province’s most diverse sectors, with women representing more than half of workers and youth making up nearly half of total employment — reinforcing hospitality’s role as both a cornerstone employer and a critical entry point to the labour market.

Hospitality workers are also trusted stewards of Ontario’s reputation. Whether welcoming visitors from across Canada or around the world — or caring for Ontarians choosing to travel and spend closer to home — hospitality teams shape first impressions and lasting memories through service, care, and professionalism.

Collectively, the organizations encourage employers, colleagues, and community members to recognize hospitality workers on February 23 through simple but meaningful actions — thanking employees, recognizing teams internally, sharing appreciation publicly, highlighting employee stories, and supporting local hospitality businesses.

Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, as recognized by the Government of Ontario, serves as a reminder that behind every meal served, room prepared, and guest welcomed are dedicated workers whose efforts strengthen Ontario’s economy, support local communities, and create the experiences that bring people back.

“Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, as recognized by the Government of Ontario, shines a light on the people who serve at the heart of our industry. Restaurant and hotel workers — from kitchens to dining rooms, housekeeping to front desks — care for guests during everyday visits and life’s most meaningful moments. Their work ensures that when people choose Canadian hospitality businesses, they feel welcomed, valued, and eager to return.”

Tony Elenis

President & CEO

Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA)

“Hospitality workers are ambassadors for Kingston. From front-of-house to back-of-house, they help shape how visitors experience our city and support our local economy. Their dedication plays a vital role in creating welcoming, memorable stays that reflect the pride we have in our community.”

Krista LeClair

Executive Director

Kingston Accommodation Partners (KAP)

“Hotel workers in the Ottawa-Gatineau region support everything from major conferences to family travel and cultural events. Their professionalism and adaptability ensure our region delivers high-quality experiences year-round and leaves visitors with a positive impression of our communities."

Steve Ball

President

Ottawa Gatineau Hotel Association (OGHA)

"In the Greater Toronto Area, hospitality workers support the largest visitor economy in the country. Across our region, hotel teams work behind the scenes and on the front lines to care for guests and uphold the GTA’s reputation as a welcoming, world-class destination.”

Sara Anghel

President & CEO

Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA)

“Hospitality workers — whether full-time, part-time, or seasonal — operate in environments built on trust, responsibility, and care. Through training and education, they help ensure safe, positive, and respectful experiences for guests and communities. Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day recognizes the professionalism and accountability that hospitality teams demonstrate every day.”

Richard Anderson

Executive Director

Smart Serve Ontario

“Ontario’s hospitality workers are the backbone of our tourism economy, and this legislation ensures their contributions are recognized in a meaningful and lasting way. By establishing February 23 as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day, the province is honouring the people whose service, care, and professionalism shape how visitors experience our communities. We are grateful to MPP Hardeman for championing this initiative and to Danny Murrell, whose leadership and lived experience helped bring this important concept forward.”

Andrew Siegwart

President & CEO

Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)

MISSISSAUGA, ON – FEBRUARY 20, 2026

The Canadian hotel industry’s anti-human trafficking initiative, Not In Our Hotel (NIOH), is expanding its national reach with the addition of Newfoundland & Labrador as its newest provincial partners. This coast-to-coast presence marks a significant milestone for the program, strengthening the hotel sector’s unified commitment to safety across Canada.

The expansion aligns with the launch of NIOH’s 2026 theme, “Together Against Trafficking,” igniting a national movement that empowers hotels to take decisive, collective action to help prevent human trafficking. With Newfoundland & Labrador now on board, NIOH is working alongside provincial hospitality associations in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland & Labrador building a powerful, coast-to-coast safety network that strengthens protection for communities across Canada.

“Human trafficking is not a distant issue; it can happen anywhere. As Tourism employers, we have a responsibility to ensure our teams are informed, confident, and prepared to recognize and respond appropriately. This training provides the sector with practical knowledge and clear guidance, helping protect guests, staff, and vulnerable individuals while reinforcing our sector’s commitment to safety, accountability, and social responsibility.”

John Devereaux

Chair, Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador

Owner of the Edge of Avalon Inn, Trepassey NL

Canada Specific Training with Practical Tools - Specific Training with Practical Tools

The Not In Our Hotel training program empowers hospitality staff to Recognize, Respond, and Report suspected human trafficking. This free, Canada-specific online training, created in partnership with Western Financial Group, includes practical tools and templates that hotel teams can implement immediately, such as:

• Specific online training
• Posters
• Manager checklists
• Reporting procedure templates
• Quick reference guides
• Certificates for completion

By combining education with ready-to-use resources, NIOH gives hotels the tools they need to take confident, informed action.

“ORHMA welcomes this collaborative initiative by the Provincial Hotel Associations, and we are proud to be part of this group fighting Human Trafficking. By working together, we can leverage our resources and provide necessary training, while sending a powerful message against these despicable and criminal acts occurring in our hotels. The project aims to support all Ontario hotels with the information and tools required to combat the illegal operations of Human Trafficking.”

Tony Elenis

President & CEO, ORHMA

The Not In Our Hotel (NIOH) Human Trafficking Awareness Training program is FREE and available online, reinforcing ORHMA’s ongoing commitment to equipping members with practical tools, resources, and education that strengthen our industry and help keep our communities safe. To access the free training portal and to register, click .

Toronto, ON (February 19, 2025) – is pleased to announce the addition of  to its management portfolio, effective February 17, 2026. Located on Nova Scotia’s South Shore with sweeping views of Mahone Bay, the resort is recognized as a longstanding coastal retreat offering full-service amenities perfect for leisure, group and business travellers.

“Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre is a distinctive property with a strong sense of place, and Atlific Hotels is proud to be entrusted with its management,” said Philippe Gadbois, COO, Atlific Hotels. “We are committed to delivering dependable, guest-focused service rooted in operational excellence and look forward to working with the Oak Island team to build on the resort’s reputation as a premier Nova Scotia destination.”

The resort features 119 nautically inspired guestrooms, many with balconies or patios overlooking the bay, as well as oceanfront chalets, suites and villas. On-site amenities include indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, spa services, mini-golf, hot tub and sauna facilities, fitness centre, tennis courts, a variety of water sports, and walking and cycling trails. A full-service marina operating mid-May through mid-October offers dozens of berths and moorings, allowing boaters to dock directly at the resort and enjoy its dining and leisure facilities.

Dining options include Oak & Oar Restaurant, offering regional cuisine with ocean views, and Three Sheets Bar + Social, a casual gathering space featuring drinks, light fare and live entertainment. The property also hosts seasonal events and curated getaway packages throughout the year.

Located a short drive from downtown Halifax, Oak Island serves as a gateway to Nova Scotia’s South Shore, providing convenient access to Mahone Bay, Lunenburg, Peggy’s Cove and other historic and scenic communities. The resort also offers flexible meeting and event space suited to conferences, weddings and social gatherings.

With its oceanfront setting, diverse accommodations and range of recreational offerings, Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre begins its next chapter under the management of Atlific Hotels, bringing experienced oversight and operational stability to one of Nova Scotia’s established coastal destinations.

TORONTO, Feb. 19, 2026 /CNW/ -  proudly announces the appointment of as its new General Manager. Chelan brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence, transferring from , where he served as General Manager.

Chelan's career with Four Seasons began in 2007 as Senior Director of Marketing for the brand's resorts in Mauritius and Seychelles. His journey later took him to Dubai, where he oversaw marketing for Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach and Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, before joining Whistler in 2017 and rising through key leadership roles.

"Chelan's strategic vision, unwavering commitment to service excellence, and genuine care for our people have played a defining role in shaping how we welcome and serve our guests," says , President, Hotel Operations, Americas. "His global perspective and deep understanding of what defines exceptional service will be a tremendous asset as we continue to elevate the guest experience in Toronto." 

Under Chelan's leadership in Whistler, the Resort achieved several notable accolades, including being recognized with 2 Michelin Keys in 2025, awarded #1 Resort in Canada by Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, and #1 Resort in Canada by Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards.

"I am honoured to take on this role at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, the flagship property and birthplace of the Four Seasons brand," says Chelan Goonetilleke, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. "I look forward to carrying on our tradition of warm, genuine hospitality that reflects Canada's welcoming spirit and the vibrant energy of this world‑class city."

Outside of work, Chelan looks forward to immersing himself in Toronto's vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cocktail bars, and exploring the city's many golf courses in summer.