Throughout the last year, we’ve been gathering nominations for outstanding customer service professionals, city ambassadors, and local businesses that go above and beyond for the North Shore community. There were a TON of stellar contenders across 2025, but we’re finally ready to crown the top spots in the Naturally North Shore Awards!
New to the awards? Here’s how they work. There are two categories: Customer Service, recognizing hospitality workers who deliver warm service tailored to their guests’ needs, and Business, honouring North Shore organizations that demonstrate unparalleled dedication to community, accessibility, and sustainability.
Together, these inspiring individuals and businesses cultivate a North Shore where residents and visitors alike feel welcomed, valued, and right at home.
Business of the Year Winner: Grouse Mountain Resort
First, we’re focusing on the business side of this sentiment by giving a well-deserved shoutout to Grouse Mountain Resort! Not only has Grouse Mountain remained a centrepiece of our active nature experiences, but the organization has also shown an incredible commitment to evolving alongside the surrounding community. Often referred to as “The Peak of Vancouver,” the mountain offers a beacon of inspiration to the communities below in more ways than one. Making accessibility a top priority, Grouse has done incredible work to ensure that everyone is welcome on the mountain regardless of mobility level.
Grouse was nominated several times in 2025, so there was plenty of testimony singing its praises as one of our most visited attractions. As one nominator put it, “Since the 1970s, Grouse Mountain has been a steadfast and generous partner of Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports, offering not only access to their world-class facilities but unwavering support to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy of skiing and snowboarding” The nomination goes on to explain how the mountain’s perspective on inclusive service has given adaptive athletes the opportunity to redefine their limits.
With that sentiment of inclusion, they encourage everyone to rethink their power and to recognize that our greatest strength as individuals is how we make others feel strong. It’s a philosophy that, again, is what our North Shore Like a Local program is all about. Responsibly exploring nature, respectfully engaging with our diverse cultures and Indigenous heritage, and making sustainably minded decisions.
We’d also like to mention two of the notable runner-ups for the distinction: Capilano University School of Tourism and Climb Base5. Both of whom encourage their staff and guests to pursue a passion for active choices while honouring inclusivity and personal growth.
Customer Service of the Year Winner: Anne Santiago from Econo Lodge Inn & Suites
On the service side, we were truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of nominations from guests eager to celebrate our local hospitality stars. It was a close race, but top honours go to Anne Santiago from Econo Lodge Inn & Suites! With a warm smile and welcoming energy, Anne shows that exceptional service is never one-size-fits-all. She goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels seen, valued, and cared for, always making herself available to help in any way she can. Anne’s pride in her work sets a powerful example. From supporting her fellow colleagues to championing the North Shore community, she embodies the very best of what local hospitality can be. We look forward to seeing her continue to grow in her role at Econo Lodge, and hearing from more guests about her stellar service!
Thank you to all the businesses that were nominated this year! We wish we could list all of you, but just know that we’re proud to have you as part of the North Shore identity. This community wouldn’t be the same without you!
Wondering how YOU can make a positive contribution to the community? Then it’s time to North Shore Like a Local! A handy guide for how to Play, Learn, and Love while on Vancouver’s North Shore, each of the three core pillars outlines how you can safely, respectfully, and sustainably explore and engage with our local nature and culture. Have a look the next time you’re here and find out the small steps that can make a big difference!
