TORONTO — A beloved figure in the Canadian travel industry is being recognized for her work by the Consulate General of Jamaica.

Maureen Barnes-Smith, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Canada, Unique Vacations Canada, affiliate of the worldwide representatives of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, has been named by the Consulate as one of 35 of the most influential and impactful leaders of Jamaican heritage in the Greater Toronto Area. Barnes-Smith is the only tourism industry recipient on the esteemed list.

A fierce advocate for Jamaica, its culture and people, Barnes-Smith has been an integral part of the Unique Vacations organization since joining its Toronto office in 1994. She has held a series of progressively responsible roles including her current position of Vice President, where she is charged with leading the overall sales and marketing strategies in the Canadian market.

Her commitment to the Jamaican community is also evident in her various volunteer positions, including Director of the Sandals Foundation (Canada) where she spearheads all local activities of the non-profit organization, including its major contribution to Toronto’s Hospital for SickKids-Caribbean Initiative, which aims to improve outcomes for children living in the Caribbean with paediatric cancer and blood disorders. She has also held various roles including Pas President with Clarendon College Alumni Association (Toronto chapter), presiding over events and fundraising for her alma mater in Jamaica.

The Consulate’s list was unveiled as part of its Diamond Jubilee Celebrations. This year, Jamaica celebrates 60 years of independence, with special events and festivities taking place in both Jamaica and Canada.

To view the complete list of Jamaica60 Toronto Game Changers click here.