Nearly 250 people attended the second annual FRLA Broward ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida. The event honored hospitality workers from across Broward County for their contributions to the industry.
The ceremony featured more than 85 honorees representing 22 local businesses. Of these, 12 individuals received the ROSE Award, which includes a pin and public recognition among peers and industry leaders.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA), stated: “We are proud to recognize the professionals who represent the very best of hospitality through their skill, care, and commitment to others at our annual ROSE Awards. These Broward honorees don’t just do their jobs; they create unforgettable welcoming moments that keep guests returning and help our local economies grow. Celebrating their achievements is a powerful reminder that our industry’s success is built on people who take pride in serving with excellence every day.”
Rozeta Mahboubi, FRLA’s Broward Chapter Regional Director and event organizer, added: “In hospitality, the true differentiator is never the building, the brand, or even the company, it’s the people who create the magic. The frontline professionals who welcome and care for every guest transform places into experiences and visitors into loyal ambassadors. At a time when automation continues to rise, nothing rivals authentic human connection. The ROSE Awards celebrate the extraordinary individuals who turn everyday interactions into lasting memories. This event brings our behind-the-scenes heroes to center stage, honoring the very heart of hospitality.”
The winners represented various roles within hospitality:
– Konstantino (Gus) Konstantinou from Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale was recognized as an Engineer.
– Marie Santil from Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach was named Rooms Inspector.
– Ally Krichilsky of Ron G Entertainment received honors for Entertainment Programming.
– Marta Looknanan from Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port was acknowledged for Accounting.
– Fanise Marcellus from Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort was awarded as Line Cook.
– Wiskil Marc of Pelican Grand Beach Resort was recognized as Culinarian.
– Jayson Kay from Encore served as Customer Service Coordinator.
– Andy Feife of Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach worked as Bartender.
– Julie Seitz from Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort was honored as Landshark Server.
– Jennifer Maciolek at Riverside Hotel worked in Loss Prevention.
– Patrice Auguste at Beach House Fort Lauderdale served as Guest Services Agent.
– Alexis Leutzinger with Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale held the role of Ambassador.
More information about FRLA’s Broward Chapter can be found at https://frla.org/chapters/broward/, while general details about FRLA are available at FRLA.org.
Founded in 1946 and later merged with another trade group in 2006, FRLA represents over 10,000 members including independent hoteliers and restaurateurs along with major franchises and suppliers. Its mission is to protect and promote Florida’s $112 billion hospitality sector that employs nearly two million people statewide. The association provides advocacy on legislative issues affecting its members’ interests and offers regulatory compliance training through programs like Safe Staff.
The FRLA Educational Foundation also supports career-building programs for high school students interested in entering Florida’s hospitality workforce.
