Designers, manufacturers, educators, leaders, or long-standing NEWH members can be nominated for their demonstrated mentorship of emerging professionals. Eligible nominees show a strong commitment to fostering equity, growth, and confidence in others, actively contribute to the development of future industry leaders, and inspire those around them through their generosity of time and knowledge.
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The Guiding Light Award
The Guiding Light Award honours those who are mentors. It recognizes a seasoned professional who lifts others as they climb — offering support, wisdom, and opportunity.
2025 Guiding Light Award Winners
1st Place: Gordon Mackay
For over 35 years, Gordon Mackay has made mentorship the heart of his design career—not a side initiative, but a central commitment. As co-founder of mackaywong, his leadership has empowered generations of emerging designers, many of whom now lead studios or remain part of his extended design family. Gordon’s approach to mentorship is rooted in trust, equity, and curiosity. He believes in walking beside his team—not ahead—amplifying their voices, encouraging bold ideas, and creating a studio culture where everyone feels ownership and belonging. From fostering underrepresented talent to shaping mackaywong’s next generation of leaders, Gordon leads with vision, generosity, and purpose.
His mantra—Dream Big, Dig Deep, Do Good—speaks to a career spent lifting others. Winning the Guiding Light Award reflects a lifetime of impact made through quiet consistency, thoughtful coaching, and the kind of leadership that lasts.
2nd Place: Jennifer Kurtz
Jennifer Kurtz brings both mentorship and hands-on leadership to the design community. With roots shaped by her time at Number Ten Architectural Group and SSDG Interiors Ltd., and teaching roles at BCIT and KPU, she continues to influence the next generation of designers. Through her own boutique firm, Jennifer ensures her team is involved in every project phase—fostering growth, exposure, and a deep respect for the design process.
3rd Place: Tara Witt
Tara is known for her collaborative spirit and practical approach to relationship-building. Her focus has always been on being a reliable resource for clients, teammates, and partners alike. She strives to show up consistently, listen more than she speaks, and support others’ success wherever possible. Whether coordinating samples, troubleshooting issues, or helping bring a vision to life, Tara approaches every project with curiosity, care, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Being involved in the True North Awards was both an honour and a pleasure. It offered a meaningful way to connect with people from across the country who are stepping up, getting their names and brands out there, and helping elevate Canada’s hospitality and adjacent industries.”
Other 2025 Finalists
Brian Leon
Choice Hotels
Jaymie Mistry
Design Poole
Julie Nichols
Sheridan College
Maggie Roncato
Artline Group
Martin Leblanc
Sid Lee Architecture
Tarah Csaszar
Talimac Design Resources