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Meet Our 2024 Hospitality Heroes

Hilton Careers Team

12 June 2024

Asia PacificEurope, Middle East, AfricaUnited States, Canada, Caribbean, Latin AmericaTeam Member recognition

Hilton is proud to announce this year’s Hospitality Heroes: Team Members who embody hospitality with their warmth and light. These winners represent every aspect of our business and are recognized for their heroic contributions, enriching the experiences of our guests, colleagues, and communities. 

Congratulations to the 55 winners!  

The Team Members below are just some of the extraordinary heroes working to make each Stay magical. Be sure to follow our social channels to meet more heroes throughout the year.  

Kashif Baloch, Guest Service Manager 

Almenat Embu Das Artes, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

During his stay, Gabriel brought a beloved toy plane, which he stored in the room's safe box, only to find it locked upon checkout. Amin Baloch assured Gabriel that his plane would be sent the next day. To further reassure him, Amin and the hotel team created a playful aviation-themed video, which was sent to Gabriel's father to show his son that the airplane was on its way. Amin personally delivered the airplane to their home, fostering loyalty with the family who returned multiple times, including celebrating one of Gabriel's birthdays at the Almenat Embu Das Artes.

Stefanie Kulla, General Manager 

Hampton Inn by Hilton & Suites California University-Pittsburgh 

Stefanie's compassion shone brightly when a little girl, displaced by a house fire, stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites California University-Pittsburgh. Determined to brighten her holiday season, Stefanie reached out across social media, inviting everyone to send the girl cards. On Christmas morning, the lobby was filled with over 40 wrapped presents and a multitude of cards, bringing joy to the little girl, and deeply moving the community with Stefanie's act of kindness. 

Hitoshi Hattori, F&B Manager 

Double Tree by Hilton Toyama, Japan 

When an earthquake struck the Double Tree by Hilton Toyama, Japan on January 1, 2024, Mr. Hitoshi Hattori, the F&B Manager, ensured no guest went without care. Recognizing a family on the 12th floor was disappointed about missing dinner at the restaurant due to the elevator outage, Mr. Hattori swiftly offered a special menu packed in bento boxes, personally delivering them up and down the stairs. This act of kindness provided comfort amid the aftershocks, leaving a lasting impact on the touched family. 

Martin Musil, Venue Manager 

Hilton Prague, Czech Republic 

Martin's dedication to guest satisfaction was exemplified when he helped a couple from the United States find a long-lost relative in the Czech Republic, culminating in a deeply moving reunion. He located the relative, who was living in a tiny village far from Prague while only using an old letter. In another instance, he provided exceptional care to a member of a Viking travel group who suffered a heart attack, ensuring she felt supported throughout her recovery.  

Khaled Rayan, Security Supervisor 

Ramses Hilton, Egypt 

Known to as the department's "eagle eye," Khaled demonstrated his commitment and vigilance to guest safety when he found a female guest unconscious on the 29th floor during his routine patrol. Without hesitation, he administered first aid and promptly called for assistance. Thanks to his swift action, the guest regained consciousness before the ambulance arrived, highlighting Khaled's dedication to guest well-being.

Check out the full list of winners:
  • Abdi Nur, Homewood Suites by Hilton Arlington Rosslyn Key Bridge, Front Desk Supervisor
  • Abhishek Das, Hilton Goa Resort, Housekeeping Executive
  • Dominique Achille Tama Bidima, Hilton Yaounde, Cook
  • Adekunle Adenekan, Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Engineering
  • Ahmed Hamdy, Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis, Electricity Supervisor
  • Khattab Al Thawabieh, Aleph Doha Residences Curio Collection by Hilton - West Bay, Front of the House Manager
  • Kashif Baloch, Almenat Embu Das Artes, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Guest Service Manager
  • Andrzej Skowroński, Hilton Warsaw City, Security Officer
  • Angel Martinez, Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe, Security
  • Anjela Grigorian, Hilton Garden Inn Chavchavadze, Server
  • Anna Bilozerska, Hilton Kyiv, Spa Therapist
  • Antonio Marques, DoubleTree by Hilton Swindon, Executive Head Chef
  • Brittany Layell, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Raleigh Midtown, Front Desk Agent
  • Chris Frazier, The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Director of Banquets
  • Daniel Firth, Waldorf Hilton, Head Concierge
  • Dominique Parker, Hilton Richmond Downtown, Sales Coordinator
  • Dorothea Kolle, Hampton Inn Fayetteville, Breakfast Hostess
  • Edward Liew, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Commis
  • Gavin Bonievich, Home2 Suites by Hilton Charles Town, Guest Service Agent
  • Gemma Nepomuceno, Hilton Garden Inn Toronto/Ajax, F&B Server
  • Gladys Maingi, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Business Bay, Careline Operator
  • Hitoshi Hattori, DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama, Food & Beverage Manager
  • Itzel Muñoz, Hilton Mexico City Reforma, Steward Supervisor
  • Jemima Quarshie Magill, DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole, Reservations Agent
  • Kenny Lane, Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Airport, Shuttle Driver
  • Khaled Rayan, Ramses Hilton, Security Senior Supervisor
  • Krutika Gawas, Conrad Pune, Junior Sous Chef
  • Linda Ngu, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Guest Service Agent
  • Luqman Nur Hakim, Hilton Kuching, Front Office Associate
  • Martin Musil, Hilton Prague, Venue Manager
  • Marwah Ali, Madinah Hilton, Receptionist
  • Megan Yelenosky, Hilton San Diego Bayfront, Food & Beverage Director
  • Mengying Wu, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Personal Concierge
  • Milad Yaqoob, Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Banquet House Attendant
  • Mohamed Kamal, Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre, In-Room Dining Supervisor
  • Faizal Darus, DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laur Resort, Recreation Team Leader
  • Nika Govic, Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa, Guest Relations Manager
  • Paul Cometa, Home2 Suites by Hilton West Edmonton, Guest Services Agent
  • Peter Waerner, Hilton Stockholm Slussen, Front Office Supervisor
  • Pia Pool, Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa, Social Events & Marketing Executive
  • Qing Wu, Hilton Suzhou, Concierge Shift Leader
  • Rachelle Stacer, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton North Port, Assistant General Manager
  • Raj Kumar, DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, Food & Beverage Executive
  • Raphaela Cavalanti, Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Downtown South/Medical Center, Guest Service Representative
  • Robert Connell, Hilton Hotel and Residences Port Moresby, Food & Beverage Manager
  • Ruchira Siriwardane, Hilton Yala Resort, Pastry Chef
  • Sharon Liu, DoubleTree by Hilton Yingde Resort, Front Desk Manager
  • Sophon Chuayhorm, Hilton Garden Inn Phuket Bang Tao, Food & Beverage Manager
  • Stefanie Kulla, Hampton Inn by Hilton & Suites California University-Pittsburgh, General Manager
  • Tabetha Clark, HRCC, US Guest Assistance – Voice
  • Talanda Donahue, DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose, Senior Catering Manager
  • Teresa Lv, Conrad Hangzhou, Outlet Attendant
  • Tracy Pineda, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Guest Relations Agent
  • Vesna Vidovic, Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, F&D Enthusiast
  • Victorina Morales, Embassy Suites by Hilton Piscataway Somerset, Suite Keeper​​​​​​​
More Team Member stories
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11 June 2026

Congratulations to the 2026 Hospitality Heroes

Asia PacificCanadaCaribbeanEurope, Middle East, AfricaLatin AmericaUnited StatesHilton cultureTeam Member recognitionTeam Member stories

At Hilton, heroes emerge among us every day – showing heart in times of need, acting with courage in moments of crisis, or simply bringing warmth to every guest interaction. These powerfully human moments define our hospitality and make Hilton the beToday, we’re proud to spotlight this year’s 56 Hospitality Heroes, Team Members whose actions inspire and remind us of what hospitality is all about. Meet just a few of the incredible Team Members who go above and beyond to make every stay unforgettaTushar Adhikary, Assistant Front Desk Manager Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, India  Tushar, Assistant Front Desk Manager, exemplifies the spirit of hospitality through unwavering dedication and empathy. When a guest was in severe mental distress, Tushar acted swiftly, coordinating with hospitals, providing calm reassurance, andAmy Parker, DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole, United Kingdom Amy received a request from a guest visiting Brighton for the first time to meet their long-distance partner. Recognizing the significance of the occasion, Amy upgraded their booking to a sea view room, arranged a personalized welcome, and created a Steve Beaulieu, Housekeeping Supervisor Hilton Quebec, Canada Steve, Housekeeping Supervisor, is a cornerstone of the Hilton Quebec team. His commitment to service shines in countless ways, like when a young guest left behind a favorite stuffed dog. Steve staged the toy in a photographic “adventure” around the Loro Chen, Operation Manager, The Mermoon Resort Hainan Tufu Bay, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, China When a guest’s child was injured during the local festival, Loro, Operations Manager, sprang into action. He coordinated with local authorities and hospitals, personally drove to register the child for care, and ensured the family received immediate Natalie Couture, Hampton Inn Hadley-Amherst Area, USA During the holidays, Natalie noticed a young guest worried that Santa might skip the hotel because there were no presents under the lobby tree. That evening, she purchased and wrapped small gifts, placing them under the tree so the next morning, the Check out the full list of winners:  Learn more about life at Hilton and apply today. 

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20 January 2026

Congratulations to the 2025 CEO Light & Warmth Award Winners

AfricaAsia PacificCanadaCaribbeanEuropeLatin AmericaMiddle EastUnited StatesTeam Member recognitionTeam Member stories

Congratulations to the remarkable Team Members recognized with Hilton’s CEO Light & Warmth Award, the highest honor at Hilton. This annual recognition celebrates those who lead with heart, live our purpose, and create truly meaningful moments forThis year, 15 exceptional Team Members from across the globe have been named 2025 CEO Light & Warmth Award recipients. Through their passion, dedication, and service, they elevate the guest experience, positively impact their communitieTogether, let’s recognize these incredible Team Members who bring Hilton’s light and warmth to life around the world. https://vimeo.com/1190522623The AmericasCoral Espinal, Experiences Manager at Conrad Punta de Mita, has redefined site inspections by transforming them into immersive, guest-centric journeys through her innovative “Site Inspection Blast,” now adopted across multiple properties. HChef Juan Anaya, Banquet Sous Chef at Hilton Anatole, embodies Hilton’s spirit of hospitality through his unwavering dedication to excellence, mentorship, and genuine care for others. Over his 25-year tenure, he has become a pillar of the cEurope, Middle East, & Africa Chef Miroslav Janjić, from Keight Hotel Opatija, Curio Collection by Hilton Croatia, actively cultivates an environment where every Team Member feels valued and encouraged to grow. Miroslav enhances the dining experience by conducting engagAnaïs Pierron, Director of Sales at the Hilton Geneva Hotel & Conference Center, embodies the heart of hospitality, consistently going above and beyond to make every guest feel welcomed and cared for. Her authentic warmth and Asia Pacific Mari Makabe, PA to the General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake, plays a vital role in boosting Team Member morale and guest experience through her leadership of Care Committee initiatives. Her daily engagement with guests,Payap Khunkayan, Sustainability Manager at Conrad Koh Samui, has embedded sustainability into daily operations and the guest experience through farm-to-table programs, composting, and hydroponics. His mentorship and community outreach Corporate Nathan Hughes, Director of HRCC, leads with empathy and decisive action, championing accessibility, equity, and inclusion while delivering record-breaking performances. His ability to pair people-first leadership with operational excellence has creat2025 WinnersReady to begin your Hilton journey? Click here to search open positions.

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29 July 2025

Catch Me at My Best at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah

AfricaEuropeMiddle EastHilton cultureTeam Member recognition

Catch Me at My Best is Hilton’s longest running and most beloved recognition program. What makes it truly special is that it’s the only program that invites guests and fellow Team Members to spotlight the outstanding moments that bring Hilton’s hospiOne hotel that consistently leads the way is Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, known for receiving a record number of catches year after year. What’s their secret? A passionate team that goes above and beyond to make every guest feel special. In this spotlWhat do you love most about welcoming guests to your hotel?“The opportunity to create a memorable first impression sets the tone for a guest's entire stay.  There is something gratifying about seeing a smile form as soon as someone walks through our doors and feels genuinely welcomed.”Team Members at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Palm enjoy a fun Jenga challenge as part of Catch Me at My Best celebrations.How do you encourage a culture of recognition among your Team Members?“We make recognition a daily habit by celebrating big wins and small gestures that reflect our values. Whether through monthly team huddles, daily department briefings, or our internal recognition platforms, we ensure that appreciation is visible, tiCan you share a moment when a Team Member’s actions truly surprised or inspired you?“Komal is not just an exceptional Team Member in our In-Room Dining department; she embodies heartfelt service and genuine hospitality. Her daily actions speak volumes about her passion for delivering service and unforgettable guest experiences. One ”Our Team Members go beyond service—they create emotional connections. Whether remembering repeated guest preferences or offering thoughtful local recommendations, they make each stay feel personalized and heartfelt.”Even amid the busy rush hour, Komal followed through with remarkable focus, ensuring the dish was ready promptly. She didn’t stop there; she delivered the meal with a handwritten welcome note that added a beautiful, personal touch. The experience dee “Catch Me at My Best” is all about recognizing Team Members who make stays extraordinary. How do they make the stay truly unforgettable?“Our Team Members go beyond service—they create emotional connections. Whether remembering repeated guest preferences or offering thoughtful local recommendations, they make each stay feel personalized and heartfelt." What’s your favorite Catch that a guest has submitted?“Our Guest Amirah Akalifa shared an incredible story of our Team Member Enock Makumbi, who helped her and her family to manage 16 bags during the night shift, where we usually operate with a minimum Team Members on duty. Our guest recognized Enock’s Team Members at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Palm celebrate Catch Me at My Best with a fun ping pong activity and recognition gifts.What do Team Members at Hilton do differently that sticks with guests after they leave?“Hilton Team Members lead with empathy and authenticity, which leaves a lasting impression. Guests often tell us they felt genuinely cared for—not just served—and that emotional connection is what brings them back.”Who made your Stay? Submit a Catch at SubmitMyCatch.com.

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