FEO Hall of Fame Inductees and Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Kitchener, Ontario – Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) is proud to announce three new inductees into the FEO Hall of Fame, as well as the 2026 FEO Volunteer of the Year Awards. FEO believes it is important to recognize significant contributions of these individuals to the festival and event industry – without their passion and dedication, this industry could not survive. The Hall of Fame and Volunteer of the Year Awards were handed out on Wednesday, February 25th during FEO’s Annual Conference “SUSTAIN” in Kitchener, Ontario.

Since 2000, FEO has now inducted 58 people into its Hall of Fame, representing festivals, municipalities, organizations and events from across the province. Each individual named to the FEO Hall of Fame is someone who has dedicated their career to the festival and event industry and who has made a lasting contribution to their community, festival, event or organization.

FEO would like to congratulate the following 2026 Inductees.

Tina Myers – Niagara Grape and Wine Festival

Tina secures and manages over $500,000 in annual grants and sponsorships for the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival, supports hundreds of volunteers, and leads the risk and emergency planning departments with exceptional diligence Tina’s leadership is grounded in kindness, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to community. She lifts people up, strengthens every program she touches, and makes the festivals better in countless ways

During her 16 years with the Winter Festival of Lights (WFOL), Tina played a key role in elevating the event into one of Canada’s most celebrated winter attractions. Tina’s expertise in sponsorship development, grant management, risk planning, and volunteer engagement helped grow the WFOL into an economic and cultural powerhouse.

Tina’s impact is profound, enduring, and wholeheartedly worthy of the FEO Hall of Fame.

Antonio Ienco – Vaughan International Film Festival

A visionary leader whose passion, perseverance, and commitment have transformed the cultural landscape of Vaughan

As a Founding Member and Director of the Vaughan International Film Festival, he has built a world-class platform that empowers emerging filmmakers and connects global talent with local audiences.

His tireless work ethic, mentorship, and community spirit inspire everyone around him — from students and volunteers to industry peers.

Antonio’s vision, creativity and cultural pride make him a standout candidate for the FEO Hall of Fame.

Patti Jannetta-Baker – SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival

As one of the founders of SING!, Patti brought decades of experience managing music events. She helped to design the format, select artists, write grants, reach out to her extensive connections to bring in sponsors, and was hands-on at the actual festival.

Patti continues to be a major visionary, strategist, and involved participant in the SING! board and festival.

We would be remiss if we also didn’t mention her involvement with the Mississauga Italfest event that she helped establish in 2013. Her endless charitable works and selfless spirit have enriched Mississauga and strengthened the cultural heartbeat of the Province. Patti’s leadership, work ethic and high moral standards make her a welcome addition for the FEO Hall of Fame.

Volunteer of the Year Award

FEO maintains that the importance of volunteers to the festivals and events industry cannot be undervalued. FEO’s commitment to the festivals and events industry is strengthened by recognizing the volunteers who have distinguished themselves by virtue of their service to their community through significant involvement with festivals or events.

FEO would like to congratulate the following 2026 Volunteer Winners and the 2026 Student Leadership Winner