Arviat's Frances Uppahuak has been named as the recipient of Calm Air's 2024 Northern Ambassador Award.
The award is presented annually by the airline to an employee deemed to be liked and respected by their peers and passengers.
Uppahuak, 40, who was promoted to the position of assistant customer service agent manager about a month ago, said she will have been with Calm Air for 17 years come February 2025.
She said the promotion was an opportunity that she just couldn't turn down.
“I was honoured when I was offered the promotion,” said Uppahuak. “Actually, it was an honour just to be considered for the award because I don't look for recognition.
“I just enjoy working and helping others, especially Elders, while they're travelling.”
Uppahuak said she was surprised to receive Calm Air's Northern Ambassador Award for 2024.
“We have an annual party for the holidays and that's when they (Calm Air) give out the awards.
“My husband, Gleason, and I always participate at the parties. When we went this year, I knew that I had been nominated for a few awards, but I had no idea that I was going to win anything.
“I plan on continuing to work with, and retire with, Calm Air. I've really enjoyed my time working with the airline. I've been fortunate, in that I'm honest and I try to be friendly with all my customers, so I never usually get any angry passengers to have to deal with.
“I've always been proud of everything Calm Air does for the communities we serve. I just came back to Arviat from attending the Christmas feast in Baker Lake, after spending a night in Rankin Inlet for the staff Christmas party there.”
