The AHATA Excellence Awards 2026 recognized 37 professionals working across Aruba’s tourism and hospitality sector, according to an AWE24 report published on October 24.
The Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association brought together 250 guests in the Astor Ballroom at The St. Regis Aruba Resort. The annual recognition highlighted employees selected by their respective companies for their dedication and service.
Recognition spans hospitality and support roles
The honorees work in a wide range of positions, including housekeeping, kitchens, front offices, engineering, transport, security, administration and event operations. The list includes staff from resorts as well as businesses that support the island’s tourism industry.
Among those recognized were Ana Patricia Jauregui, housekeeping manager at Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort; Francis Wernet, I.T. manager at De Palm Corporation; Felipe Hill, a barback at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort; and Fanny Olarte, housekeeping manager at voco Surfside Aruba by IHG. AWE24’s original report provides the full list of 37 recipients and their employers.
Local artist designed the awards
Each recipient received a trophy designed by Aruban artist Gilbert Senchi. The seashell-inspired design represents the warmth and durability of the island’s hospitality, the report said.
AHATA president and CEO Tisa LaSorte presented the awards in front of industry representatives and the honorees’ family members and colleagues.
Individual honoree stories to follow
AHATA said it would share the recipients’ stories on social media in the coming weeks, giving the community an opportunity to learn about the people behind the recognition. The association also acknowledged the support of event partners, EPI Hospitality student volunteers and other volunteers.
Source: AWE24’s original report and complete honoree list.
Featured image: an original editorial illustration, not a photograph of the ceremony or its actual trophy.
