On the evening of October 10, the lights dimmed, the music swelled, and the red carpet rolled out — not in Hollywood, but here in Calgary. The spotlight was on our real stars—from Brooks to Banff, High River to Calgary, as colleagues arrived dressed to dazzle, walking into a venue transformed into a glamorous Oscar-style celebration.
The atmosphere was electric — a shimmering backdrop, golden lights, and the kind of energy you feel when something truly special is happening.
The evening began with the smooth saxophone renditions from McAkin and the vibrant beats of Madie Nubia from Samba Calgary. Their performances set the tone: this was a night of celebration, rhythm, and joy.
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for — the Walk of Fame. Staff members celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 35, and 40 years of service were honoured like legends. Retirees and board members joined in the applause, creating a heartfelt tribute to the journeys that have shaped CCIS.
Award-winning vocalist Paloma Negara took the stage with a performance that could rival any Grammy night, followed by Radwa Nasr’s enchanting Egyptian Folklore dance — a cultural gem that mesmerized the crowd. And just before the dance floor opened, YYC Dabke and Hilwea Suliman brought the house down with a high-energy Dabke performance that had everyone moving to the beat.
On a night where camera clicks didn’t stop for a second, the images that will continue to be in our minds will be those of spontaneous smiles, cheers, and conversations that show what happens when people come together with gratitude and joy.
Here’s to many more red-carpet nights of appreciation, unity, and celebration!
