G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip has been honoured as an Officer of the Order of Canada – the first person in the travel industry to receive the title in 34 years.
The honour recognises ‘achievement and merit of a high degree, especially service to Canada or to humanity at large’ and is higher than the rank of ‘Member’ in the Canadian state orders.
Poon Tip, who founded the adventure tour operation 33 years ago, described the title as the ‘most humbling honour’ he could receive, particularly as he was an immigrant to Canada at a young age.
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He said: “Canada has afforded me the gift of opportunity. This great nation took my family and I in, and has given me the privilege and means to build a business.
“It’s enabled me to make my ideas become a reality – creating a community that is based on giving back to others – both nationally and internationally.
“G Adventures was founded on the ethos of changing people’s lives through travel. Combined with the work of Planeterra, the non-profit foundation I founded in 2003, we have had a huge impact on local communities around the world, using tourism as a driver of wealth distribution and poverty alleviation in some of the world’s poorest countries.”
Poon Tip said he accepted the honour “on behalf of myself and my family”, adding he was “grateful and truly overwhelmed”.
He added: “I would like to thank everyone involved in helping to make this happen for me through the nomination and recommendation process.
“I am committed to continuing my service to Canada, as well as to the world at large. It’s my calling and my passion. This recognition means so much, as it supports the vision I believe so strongly in.”
The honour, announced on June 30, aims to recognise those who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation, according to The Office of the Order of Canada.
It states: “The contributions of these trailblazers are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country. Their grit and passion inspire us, teach us, and show us the way forward.”
King Charles III is the Sovereign of the Order, and the governor general is the Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.