Alvin Fontanilla - Bell Captain, Philippines

After 10 years in the hotel business, Alvin Fontanilla was looking to try out the Canadian culture - and climate. Coming to The Banff Centre in early 2009 the weather was definitely an adjustment for Alvin after his years spent in Orlando and Arizona.

An amateur photographer, Alvin was drawn to the uniqueness of The Banff Centre. 

“As a school for the arts I knew it was so much more than a hotel and that sounded like a great opportunity.”  

Coming through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Alvin began working at The Banff Centre as a Bellman; responsible for greeting guests, assisting with luggage, and providing shuttle-service between buildings on campus when needed.   Last April Alvin was promoted to Bell Captain, a position which involves supervising and scheduling the other bellman; ensuring that everything is in order; welcoming guests; and assisting with their needs.   The part Alvin enjoys the most in his role is meeting all the different kinds of people that come to the Centre from around the world. 

“It is such a pleasure to have the chance to talk with people from completely different cultures and backgrounds; artists, conference guests, and mathematicians.”

When asked what kind of attitude he brings to work he answers with one key word – responsibility.

“Every task I take on I do so with the responsibility for my actions.”

It’s this sense of responsibility that really allows Alvin to excel in his role here at the Centre. Last year he was awarded the peer-nominated, Unsung Hero Award, highlighting his commitment to providing exceptional customer service and for going the extra mile. 

Taking full advantage of all there is to participate in at the Centre; Alvin has seen numerous performances over his 2 years here. Some of his favourites include attending the Banff International String Quartet Competitions and Classic Banff..

When Alvin was promoted to Bell Captain he was able to bring his family over from the Philippines. His kids and his wife are settling into life here in Banff; his wife has also joined us at the Centre.

“My kids are now studying in Banff and I spend as much time as possible playing with them when I’m not at work.”

When I ask him to share something that his colleagues may not know about him he answers, he plays guitar.  As for his favourite song to play, he pauses and then offers John Lennon’s Imagine.  Nice choice.