Nominate a Star Employee for the Melody Pashko Award

The Melody Pashko Award celebrates an exceptional individual within your organization who brings passion, commitment, and a tireless work ethic to Alberta’s food and beverage industry.
For over 30 years, Melody has been the heart of AFPA—mentoring businesses, delivering vital training, and guiding our organization with wisdom and grace. From HACCP expert to General Manager, Melody has shaped the AFPA into what it is today, earning the admiration of board members, colleagues, and countless industry partners.
This award honors a staff member who reflects Melody’s unwavering dedication, can-do attitude, and enduring support for Alberta’s food community.
Know someone on your team who fits the bill? Nominate them today.
Let’s celebrate the “Melody Go-Get Spirit” and continue to inspire a new generation of industry champions.
Email your nomination to meghan@afpa.com

Eric Haak Award

This award is named after an individual who has not only left an indelible mark on our industry but has also been a beacon of passion and leadership.
Eric is more than just an industry leader; he embodies the very spirit of dedication to the Alberta Food and Beverage industry. In times of financial uncertainty, Eric did not hesitate to step up and steer the ship, even taking on the role of Executive Director when AFPA faced challenges in affording leadership. Through those years, Eric showcased not only courage but an unwavering commitment to the industry’s success.
Eric has been a steadfast advocate—a strong voice for our industry and a mentor to those just starting out in the business. His dedication doesn’t stop there; he has also founded Edmonton’s CEO club for food and beverage industry leaders, providing invaluable support and guidance to leaders and companies.
Thanks to Eric’s leadership and dedication, the lights stayed on at AFPA, and our association continues to thrive. It is with immense honor and gratitude that we announce the establishment of the Eric Haak Award. This award will be bestowed upon a leader in the industry who exemplifies dedication, compassionate leadership, and a fervent passion for the future of Alberta Food and Beverage.
From now on yearly AFPA will award the Eric Haak award allowing for industry leaders to yearly be honoured for their dedication and passion to the Alberta Food and Beverage industry.

Do you know a leader deserving of this recognition?  Nominate them today by emailing meghan@afpa.com with who you are nominating and a brief description of why they deserve this honour.

> Awards Main Page
> Award Category Definitions
> Rules of Competition & Eligibility
> 2025 Award Winners

Past Recipients

2025 Melody Pashko Award

DON’YA Ukraine’s Kitchen

A team of over 25 Ukrainian newcomers led by Georgia and Janice, who have built a thriving business and an inspiring community of resilience, culture, and culinary excellence.

2025 Eric Haak Award

Joe Swiston, VP of Operations at WOW! Factor Desserts

A calm, humble, and values-driven leader whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on his team and Alberta’s food sector.

About the Alberta Food & Beverage Awards

Friday, June 5th, 2026  |  Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel

The 2026 Alberta Food & Beverage Awards put Alberta products in the spotlight — giving producers a powerful platform to showcase to retailers, stand out with consumers, and gain expert feedback that strengthens your brand.

Designed for food and beverage producers manufacturing in the province, the awards highlight excellence across 19 distinct product categories, covering everything from bakery and dairy to beverages, snacks, condiments, prepared meals, alcohol, and more.  With exclusive eligibility for Made in Alberta companies, the Awards offer one of the strongest platforms to stand out, build credibility, and showcase exceptional Alberta products.

Products will be evaluated by a curated panel of industry experts, with winners announced at the 2026 Alberta Food & Beverage Awards Gala, June 5th in Edmonton.