Welcome to BSAP 2026
PAIGE ATKINSON
As the Baxter Student Ambassador Program (BSAP) enters its 12th year, it continues to play an important role in supporting and developing emerging talent in Canada’s travel and tourism industry. Each year, one student from every participating school is selected to represent their institution through a competitive application process, which includes a written submission and a live presentation evaluated by a panel of industry judges.
2026 marks a pivotal year for the program, with several key updates aimed at strengthening its impact and expanding its reach. Most notably, BSAP has launched a fully refreshed website designed to welcome incoming applicants, celebrate our past ambassadors and serve as a central hub where young professionals can access industry information and highlight their accomplishments (baxterambassadors.com).
This year BSAP debuted a fully refreshed website
Another key development this year is the introduction of updated finalist presentation topics. These revisions reflect key issues, trends and innovations shaping the industry, encouraging students to think more critically and broaden their perspectives.
The students delivered well-researched presentations supported by fresh ideas and thoughtful recommendations, despite the demands of a busy academic season.
Andrea Dixon, an instructor at Algonquin College’s Tourism & Travel Services program, says: “BSAP gives students the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and truly show what they are capable of to the industry.”
“I’ve seen firsthand how much confidence, professionalism, and pride students gain through this experience. At a time when tourism and travel programs are being cut at colleges, opportunities like this are more important than ever to help launch the next generation of tourism professionals,” Dixon continues.
This year’s Baxter Student Ambassadors reflect a diverse and forward-thinking group of students with interests spanning aviation, destination marketing, travel advising and experience design, as well as niche areas such as culinary tourism, and more. One ambassador hopes to work with Toronto chefs to create food-focused events that highlight Ontario ingredients.
Others are focused on strengthening the industry itself, including improving career pathways for recent graduates. Together, they challenge narrow perceptions of the sector, highlighting an industry that offers a wide range of creative and often overlooked opportunities.
“As the Baxter Student Ambassadors program grows, we’re thrilled to introduce new elements—from a refreshed digital presence to more dynamic presentation topics—that inspire students to think critically and push boundaries. We remain committed to supporting their journey into the industry,” says Mitchell McClung, Publisher of Travel Courier.
Congratulations to each of the 2026 Baxter Student Ambassadors:
- Algonquin College, Franz Dennielle Blasabas
- Capilano University, Aya (Afnan) Khan
- Centennial College, Omasi Orusa
- Conestoga College, Grace Arseneau
- Fanshawe College, Gail Ritchie
- George Brown, Eitan Shalmon
- Holland College, Karina McNeill
- Humber College, Jacob Maracle
- Mohawk College, Golestan Kadir
- Niagara College, Sheree Loyloy
- Red River College, Cynthia Ramirez
- SAIT, Patricia Directo
- St. Clair College, Edua Marczinko
- TMU, Jeanne Vianey Juliano
