The Ottawa Section of the Canadian Lebanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry held its Eighth Business & Professional Achievement Awards Gala on Saturday October 22nd, 2011. This Gala recognized the accomplishments of both professionals and companies whose local success has contributed to the Canadian and Lebanese communities.

• Leadership Award: Eli El Chantiry
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr Clovis Maksoud
• Philanthropist of the year award: Ed Mahfouz
• Business of the year award: Hanna Bakery
• Fastest growing business of the year award: George's meat Shop
• Professional of the year award: Carol Najm
• President's Award: Dunia El Deek

Gala Event Photo Gallery

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When thinking of her homeland, Rima expresses, "I am extremely excited to be working with Climb 4 Lebanon and Elia Saikaly and representing my country on this climb. It's my home, and I absolutely love it. It's a great feeling knowing I'm also doing this expedition for my people back home. On this climb, I really hope to inspire many people in Lebanon (both young and old), to make positive changes in the world. I want them to know that they shouldn’t underestimate themselves because even the littlest things go long ways." Click to see Video and Bio

Rima Sanaallah - 17 years old, Brookfield High School, Ottawa

Canadian-Lebanese Elia Saikaly, founder of FindingLife, is spearheading the Kenya Expedition.

Elia became the youngest and 2nd Lebanese individual to reach the summit of Mt. Everest on May 22nd, 2010.

Shortly after reaching the top of the world, Saikaly flew from Nepal to Lebanon to meet the mayor of Beirut (at the time) Mr. Abdel Mounim Ariss. In Lebanon, he was presented with a special award for becoming the youngest Lebanese to reach the top of the world.