Shawna Nelson has over 35 years of experience in the hotel, hospitality and tourism industries. She has worked with several major hotel chains and management companies as director of sales, marketing and event management. As CEO of Nelson Strategic Solutions, she shares her sales, marketing and customer experience expertise with hospitality, tourism and women-owned businesses. The company also provides event planning, management and public relations advice and services.

A strong advocate for supporting and championing local business, Nelson has served on the board of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, was Past Chair of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, and represented Saskatchewan on the Canadian Chamber of Commerce board.

Recognized for her commitment to giving back and her leadership in business, Nelson was nominated for YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in the categories of Community Building and Business and Professions. She received the 2016 Athena Leadership Award from the Business and Professional Women of Saskatoon and, most recently, was honoured with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.  Nelson graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, majoring in food administration.