A recent NC graduate is on the fast track to success after being named one of the most promising post-secondary tourism and hospitality talents in Canada.
Sheree Loyloy, who graduated from the Tourism Management and Business Development two-year diploma program in June, was selected as one of 14 winners of Baxter Media’s Student Ambassador program (BSAP). The Thorold resident was the sole representative chosen from NC for the prestigious national mentorship initiative.
The program, which marked its twelfth year in 2026, is Canada’s only travel and tourism student mentoring project. Along with their distinction, winners receive a cash prize, networking and mentorship opportunities, a certificate of completion, and a professional profile featured in Travel Courier, reaching 45,000 industry readers.
Loyloy noted that winning the award was an honour.
Sheree Loyloy works at the Table Rock in Niagara Falls, where she completed her co-op placement.
“I feel grateful and proud because it recognizes the hard work and dedication I have put into my studies and personal growth. It also gave me the confidence to believe that I can make a positive contribution to the tourism industry,” she said.
“Personally, this award reminds me that hard work and perseverance can lead to meaningful opportunities. Professionally, it is an achievement that I am proud to include on my résumé and will help me stand out as I begin my career. It has also connected me with industry professionals and given me valuable experience that will benefit me in the future.”
Loyloy enrolled in the program after high school, drawn by the College’s strong reputation for hands-on learning and industry connections.
“I enjoy meeting new people, learning about different destinations, and creating positive experiences for others. I also like that tourism is always changing, which means there are always new opportunities to learn and grow,” she said. “The Tourism Management – Business Development program stood out to me because it combines business, sales, marketing, and tourism, which are all important skills for the industry.”
During her studies, Loyloy completed a co-op placement as a sales associate at the Table Rock Centre in Niagara Falls. In that role, she welcomed international visitors, answered questions about local attractions, recommended regional experiences, and assisted with visitor information.
“This experience strengthened my customer service, communication, and sales skills while giving me valuable hands-on experience in the tourism industry. It also showed me the importance of creating a positive first impression and delivering excellent guest experiences,” she said.
Applying what she learned to real-world projects and presentations was one of the most rewarding aspects of her college journey. To secure the BSAP title, she challenged herself by preparing and delivering a 15- to 20-minute webinar to a panel of industry judges.
“Niagara College gave me practical experience through presentations, projects, and my co-op placement, while also helping me improve my communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills,” she said. “I feel much more prepared and confident as I begin my career.”
Ambassadors were selected based on a combination of academic success, industry and community involvement, leadership skills, and the skill-testing project. Only one graduating student is designated as the Baxter Student Ambassador from each of the 14 participating institutions across Canada, which also include Algonquin College, Centennial College, Holland College, Conestoga Collage, Humber College, SAIT, Capilano University, MacEwan University, St. Clair College, Mohawk College, BCIT and George Brown College.
Since graduating, Loyloy has continued to put her skills to work in the industry by serving global visitors at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, while searching for long-term career opportunities directly focused on growth in the tourism sector.
“I am excited to continue building my experience while working toward a career that aligns with my education and passion for tourism. I hope to work in a role where I can apply the knowledge and skills I gained at Niagara College while continuing to learn from industry professionals,” she said. “My long-term goal is to build a successful career where I can contribute to creating meaningful travel experiences and supporting the growth of the tourism industry.”
Looking back on her time at NC, Loyloy was thankful for the community that supported her path to national recognition.
“I am thankful for the opportunities Niagara College has given me, both inside and outside the classroom. The support from my professors, classmates, and industry partners has helped me grow personally and professionally,” she said.
“I am excited to continue learning, take on new challenges, and make a positive impact wherever my career takes me.”
BSAP 2026 ambassadors were announced in May. View Loyloy’s profile in the free digital edition of Travel Courier here.
