Winners announced for IAAPA Inspiration, Service and Young Professional Awards

March 26, 2025

Attractions /

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has named the winners of the 2024-2025 Inspiration, Service, and Young Professional Awards. The awards recognise individuals who have consistently put the success and growth of the attractions industry first – from visionary pioneers who have devoted their lives to the industry’s livelihood to those up and coming who have demonstrated an impressive commitment.

The Inspiration Award honours forward-thinking individuals who have advocated for innovation in their respective region, resulting in a significant impact on that area’s attractions.
The Service Award recognises dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to IAAPA, their communities, and the industry, often as leaders or mentors.
The Young Professional Award celebrates emerging leaders who demonstrate leadership, integrity, and teamwork early in their careers.

The winners of the 2024-2025 IAAPA Individual Achievement Awards are as follows:

Inspiration Award

Mario Mamon, Enchanted Kingdom, Asia Pacific
Sabine Lehmann, Curiositas, Europe, Middle East, Africa
Cícero Fiedler, Interparques, Latin America, Caribbean
Duncan Dickson (posthumously), Rosen College of Hospitality Management/UCF, North America

Service Award

Shaun McKeogh, Attractions Academy, Asia Pacific
Evelyne Villame, Space Association, Europe, Middle East, Africa
Valeria Cañón, Aquapolis and Aeropolis, Latin America, Caribbean
Gina Claassen, Herschend Family Entertainment, North America

Young Professional Award

Steven Shen, Universal Beijing, Asia Pacific
Cassidy Newman, WhiteWater West, Europe, Middle East, Africa
Marcos Michan, Xtreme Park, Latin America, Caribbean
Jessi O’Daniel, Typhoon Texas, North America

Jakob Wahl, president and Chief Executive of IAAPA notes “receiving an award of such stature is a remarkable accomplishment. It is a true testament of the dedication and creativity that drives our industry forward.

“Their contributions not only elevate their own organisations but also inspire excellence across our global community.”

Adrea Gibbs, chair of the IAAPA Global Awards Committee added “the Global Awards Committee would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the IAAPA Individual Achievement Award winners and include special thank you to the Regional Achievement Judging Task Forces.

“These incredible people have inspired us all with their contribution and service. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and continuing impact on the industry next month at IAAPA Honors.”

IAAPA Honors is an annual global awards event celebrating excellence in the attractions industry. Attendees will learn from award winners, hear inspiring words from subject matter experts, explore behind-the scenes of Europa-Park, and network with fellow industry peers.

IAAPA Honours celebrates the visionaries driving innovation in the attractions industry, with the IAAPA Brass Ring Awards recognising outstanding achievements in marketing, entertainment, F&B, sustainability, HR, and more.

Finalists of IAAPA’s operational awards, Brass Rings, were announced earlier this year. The official winners from these categories will also be revealed and celebrated during the global awards event taking place 28th-30th April 28-30 at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany.

For more information or to register for IAAPA Honors, visit IAAPA.org/Honors

Image. Winners of IAAPA 2024-2025 Inspiration, Service, and Young Professional Awards

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