By: Jordan Ongtangco, National Secretary
“What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”. That’s how the famous adage goes about the Entertainment capital of the world. So please forgive me if I had to let this cat out of the bag.
Attending meetings and congresses always interests me. Something with seeing old friends and seeing friends get old amuses me. It is definitely a fun and educational experience. The best thing about Congresses is that you get to know more people that will be part of your network. There was an old saying that goes “a Concierge is only as good as his contacts. At the end of the day it is still a business where it is about who you know and what they can do for you and your guests, and vis versa.
The recently concluded North American Congress was no different, there was the typical exchange of hugs, kisses, handshakes, and whatnot. However, this congress felt different to me. Having attending several congresses in the past, this congress somehow was special. Please allow me to elaborate.
In Las Vegas we held our Annual General Membership meeting face to face. Just the second time we have since the pandemic hit the global tourism industry. It was nice to see familiar faces and meet new ones. What made is special is that we paid tribute to our members who have dedicated a great deal of their time, knowledge, experience, and patience to the association. Seeing their unending dedication and passion towards Les Clefs d’Or is very admirable and inspiring. There were few who were present during the meeting. Toni D, Andre P, Geoff A, Verinda D, and Alain L. all received their long-service pin. Most of them for being part of the association for more than 30 years! Yes, 30 years! The best part is, there are more members with longer tenure in the association. Lanfranco from Ontario is retiring after 45 years! If that does not inspire you, then I do not know what will.
We also have the changing of the guards, with the new National Leadership led by my good friend, Dillon Carfoot. He will lead our country to the next level. But the most special thing to me was seeing all the younger members stepping up to the plate and dedicating themselves to the association. The collective passion from the younger members was overflowing and it was very heartwarming. I can say for certain that the future of Les Clef d’Or Canada is going to be brighter. There was a lot of respect between the young and the old. The standing ovation that the veteran members have received from the next generation was just too much for me. I have to be honest, I shed a tear or two when Alain’s name was called. Only to find out we are both cry-babies.
That is the power of Les Clefs d’Or. The power that brings people together. The power the bridges generational gap. Everyone learning from everyone.
As we wrapped up the congress, it felt like there we no more regions. No one is from British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Niagara, Montreal, Quebec, and Atlantic. We all came from oneplace and we are one family. The Les Clefs d’Or Canada Family.
I would like to end this post with snippet from Alain’s speech upon receiving his 30 year pin.
lesclefsdorcanada.com 
