The achievements of Admiral colleagues across Nova Scotia took centre stage recently at the 2023 edition of our anual fall Awards Gala.

Since 2008, the event has been the centrepiece of our reward and recognition platform as every October, we acknowledge the collective commitments of the entire Canadian operation while spotlighting those who performed exceptionally over the last 12 months and led the way within their teams and departments.

Following a year of big change at Admiral Canada, a new chapter was also etched for the Gala. Previously a staff exclusive affair, a guest ticket component was introduced this year along with a video awards format, and change in venue – from the more formal and upscaled Marriot Harbourfront to the casual and come-as-you-are Pacifico nightclub. 

It all made for an event that decided to let its hair down: a shift from staff-exclusive glitz and glamour to a more party-like family celebration with the awards as the opening act. 

Kim Ross, a Customer Care Representative, enjoyed the new format.

"It was a good atmosphere for mingling with co-workers. I loved too that we could bring a guest, even if not our spouse. Amazing."

Award changes themselves also played a big part in the freshened Gala. Video introductions  were interspersed with live winner reveals to give the proceedings a fresh dynamic. Prestigious hallmarks like 'Team Manager of the Year' and 'Customer Care Representative of the Year' returned to the ceremony's main event, but sporting a new 10-1 countdown format instead of a few nominees with single winner.

Meanwhile, first timer awards like Culture Champion and Culture Leadership included an employee nomination component, as we celebrated key contributors by way of peer-to-peer recognition.

"I love the new award categories and formats (peer nominations). Great addition of having friends/family invited," offered one piece of post-event employee feedback.

At its core, as in years past, the 2023 edition was as much about recognizing invaluable individual workplace contributions as it was creating a memorable evening that encapsulates our award-winning culture.

A photo booth kept the crowd posing, hidden prizes throughout the venue added an element of surprise, and The G Street Band and DJ Chris Matheson had the dance floor in the groove, not to mention the complimentary beverages and food stations that awaited guests on arrival.

With the event live-streamed, remote colleagues in Cape Breton gathered at a spirited watch party in the Sydney area, while others opted to travel to the city to attend. Those who simply felt like a quiet night in had a watch party box with drinks and snacks to enjoy at home with family.

Renee Beardley, a Customer Care Representative who made the trip to Halifax for the gala, said the event was a fantastic way to build stronger relationships with those she normally sees on a screen.

"I really enjoyed the social aspect. As a remote worker, it was so nice to interact with everyone face to face." 

Congratulations to all our winners!