Tireless efforts to develop and promote tourism in Nanaimo has earned Jennifer Ford and Chelsea Barr of Nanaimo’s economic development office industry recognition.
The pair were presented with Tourism Vancouver Island’s MVP Award during the organization’s awards night Sept. 21 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
Ford and Barr demonstrated commitment to the growth of the industry on the Island by participating in regional co-op marketing opportunities, engaging local businesses in developing itinerary for visiting media, showcasing Nanaimo in travel trade shows and consumer shows, and helping to put on a successful industry conference in 2011.
Barr recently worked with 19 businesses to showcase their products as part of the Nanaimo Bar Trail project, which has become a popular tourist activity and drawn national media to participate in the tasty event.
“I was surprised and flattered to be presented with this award,” said Barr. “It’s amazing to be recognized for doing a job you love and for working with the community towards our goal of growing tourism on Vancouver Island, and in particular, Nanaimo.”
Ford recently left the economic development office to teach marketing at Vancouver Island University.