Driven by a passion for hospitality and a strong foundation in finance, Setareh Soleimaninasab, a Hospitality–Hotel Operations Management student at George Brown College (GBC), has been honoured with the prestigious Doug Smith Futures Award.
This recognition celebrates her commitment to Ontario’s tourism industry and her dedication to mentoring fellow students. Awarded by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), the Doug Smith Futures Award acknowledges her unique background in finance and accounting and her enthusiasm for the tourism sector.
A tribute to dedication and leadership potential
The Doug Smith Futures Award celebrates students in Ontario’s hospitality, tourism, culinary or business programs who demonstrate a strong dedication to finance and leadership potential within the industry. Named in memory of Nieuport Aviation’s former CFO, Doug Smith, the award reflects Smith’s legacy of resilience, mentorship, and financial expertise. It recognizes individuals who embody his values of collaboration and dedication.
Soleimaninasab’s academic journey is extensive —a bachelor's degree in accounting and a master's in international accounting and finance—and complements her passion for hospitality. Her love for the field drove her decision to attend George Brown, and she continues to nurture her interest in finance by tutoring students in accounting at the college’s Tutoring and Learning Centre. Soleimaninasab reflected on the award as “a profound recognition of the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my career."
“Winning this award is incredibly fulfilling,” said Soleimaninasab. “It’s proof that following my heart was the right choice, and it reinforces my commitment to excellence, opening new doors for future opportunities.”
A journey of passion and mentorship
Soleimaninasab credits her experience at GBC as essential to her journey, saying that having a mentor who introduced her to this opportunity was pivotal. Beyond her studies, tutoring other students in finance has been both personally rewarding and a way to give back to her community.
Looking to the future, Soleimaninasab’s dream is to be in a role where she can blend her expertise in finance with her passion for hospitality, ideally as a problem solver and innovator who drives meaningful change. Her achievement with the Doug Smith Award is a proud moment for George Brown College and a testament to the promising talent emerging in Ontario’s tourism and finance sectors.
