Entrepreneur Dennie O’Connor was named Ambassador of the Year for his work on the front line of tourism.

Mr O’Connor, the owner of Cosmopolitan Club Lounge and co-owner of Tobacco Bay and Bermuda Triangle Experience, picked up the prize at the Certified Tourism Ambassador Star Awards.

He said: “We don’t do this job for the recognition, we do it out of the passion of our hearts, so to be nominated and win multiple times felt surreal.

“It’s important to become a CTA because it’s reflective of our passion for hospitality. It shows others that you are not only dedicated to the betterment of the tourism industry, but to Bermuda as a whole. Knowledge is power and being a CTA, you are armed with a wealth of knowledge, resources, and connections that make Bermuda shine.”

Mr O’Connor was also recognised in the categories of Recreation and Entertainment, and Food and Beverage.

Other winners were:

• Russ Ford of Bermuda Transit Services, for Transportation

• Marie-France Thompson, Lili Bermuda, for Retail and Shopping

• Donna Alvarez, The Reefs Hotel, for Accommodations

• Kyle James, Bermuda Development Agency for Local Ambassador

• Beverley Bennett, Bermuda Tourism Authority, for Travel Services.

Mr O’Connor, who will now be considered alongside CTAs from across the US for the 2019 International Star Award, said his biggest goal is to inspire Bermuda’s young people.

He said: “I want to show them first-hand that the tourism industry is booming with successful opportunities. Good things come when you persevere.”

Karla Lacey, chief operating officer of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, said: “These CTA award recipients exemplify what Bermuda hospitality is about and collectively their passion for and knowledge of Bermuda is what helps to set our island apart from other destinations.

“The Bermuda Tourism Authority salutes them, and we encourage the entire community to join us in congratulating them for their dedication to consistently elevating the level of hospitality service delivery.”

For more information visit https://www.gotobermuda.com/bta/tourism-ambassadors.