Victoria-based Accent Inns Inc. was named Tourism Employer of the Year at the Tourism Industry Association of sa国际传媒’s annual awards this month in Vancouver.
At the heart of the company’s approach is its goal of “leading with love,” chief executive Mandy Farmer said.
The hospitality group consists of Accent Inns (there are five in sa国际传媒), Hotel Zed (three locations in sa国际传媒) and ROAR restaurant in Tofino.
This award is a special one, Farmer said. “We really, truly do set out to have a happy workplace.”
Farmer said she wants each member of the team to feel that working for the organization is “the best job they’ve ever had in their entire life.” During peak times, the organization has about 400 employees overall.
“I really believe that work can be a refuge, a place where we can recharge our batteries,” Farmer said. A positive approach is good for the bottom line and for morale, she said, noting the majority of staff have been there for more than five years.
The Tourism Employer of the Year Award honours a business that fosters equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging in a safe and innovative environment.
Judging criteria include demonstrating leadership and commitment to staff training and professional development, a positive workplace culture, fair compensation and benefits, and work-life balance.
Financial planner named Chamber Member of the Year
Josue Dubon has been named Chamber Member of the Year for 2025 by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.
Originally from Winnipeg, Dubon moved to Greater Victoria in 2019 and is a partner and financial planner at DesignWealth. As of this year, he has been sitting on the chamber’s board of directors, and serves on the finance, audit, emerge and ambassador committees. He becomes board secretary in January.
“What I didn’t foresee, when I first became involved in order to add my voice as an advocate of business, was how much this organization would give back to me — through meaningful connections, invaluable lessons, and opportunities to grow alongside a community deeply committed to fostering innovation and collaboration,” Dubon said.
The Chamber Member of the Year award, sponsored by Air sa国际传媒, recognizes an individual who has served as a volunteer at the Chamber, has taken an active role with the board or committees, fosters relationships with the community and advocates on behalf of business.
Chamber chief executive Bruce Williams said Dubon understands the values reflected by businesses in the region. “We are a compassionate community, and we believe that creating a healthy climate for business improves the quality of life for everyone who lives in our region,” Williams said.
UVic appoints inaugural dean for health faculty
The University of Victoria has appointed Tammy Hopper as the inaugural dean of its new Faculty of Health for a five-year term beginning May 1.
Hopper is known for her leadership skills, work with complex governance structures, and fundraising and advocacy.
Hopper, a speech-language therapist and professor, is currently dean of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta whose research focuses on improving communication for individuals with dementia.
UVic’s new Faculty of Health is expecting its first students in May.
