For Andrea Holmes-Seymour, a Jamaican living in Fort Myers, Florida in the United States(US), apart from the religious aspect of Christmas, family togetherness has always been at the forefront of what makes the season worthwhile.

This year, though, Holmes-Seymour has yet one more reason to celebrate.

The guest service representative at an extended stay property, under the CHOICE brand in South West Florida, was recognised as the ‘Employee of the Year’ at the beginning of December.

“Being recognised as ‘Employee of the Year’ came as quite a surprise to me,” Holmes-Seymour admitted to The Gleaner.

“My property was just sold in September of this year and I’m not quite accustomed to the new owners. I’ve only interacted with them a few times.

“Some of my co-workers and I attended [the awards ceremony]. My property being the newbie in the mix, not even three months old, we were not expecting anything. We just planned to eat, drink and be merry!

“They did the award section and when I heard the regional manager call my name as the winner, suffice it to say ... I was floored!”

Holmes-Seymour said what made the award even more satisfying was the fact that her work spoke for itself.

“The accolades from the previous owners to the new owners, coupled with that of my general manager and the many online reviews from guests were what singled me out.”

Carl Gilchrist