Blackbird Security is proud to announce that several team members have been named finalists in the 2024 Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs). These prestigious industry awards recognize exceptional performance within Canada's security industry, celebrating professionals who go above and beyond to protect businesses and communities nationwide.
Now in its third year, the OSPAs highlight excellence across various security sectors. Today, we’re honoured to showcase our finalists and their remarkable achievements in their respective fields.
Gurisimran Singh: Nominated for Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
Gurisimran has demonstrated exceptional adaptability, resourcefulness, and work ethic throughout his career at Blackbird Security. He began as a Loss Prevention Operative (LPO) before becoming District Manager in Vancouver and is now the Regional Manager of Vancouver Island—one of our most operationally challenging regions.
Throughout his time with us at Blackbird, Gurisimran has made a tangible impact on the lives of the community members he protects. Most notably in 2023, Gurisimran saved lives by responding to a fire that threatened multiple staff members and shoppers. As soon as he spotted the fire, Gurisimran immediately used a fire extinguisher to put out the blaze safely. Thanks to his training and rapid response, Gurisimran prevented a potentially devastating event.
As noted by the fire investigator, the building’s old wooden structure caused the fire to spread rapidly. Had Gurisimran not acted as swiftly as he did, the fire could have led to serious injuries and extensive damage to the building. For this act of bravery, Gursiimran was awarded the Unwavering Heroism Award by the Canadian Security Lifesaver Association. The Blackbird Security team is incredibly proud that Gurisimran followed his training, remained vigilant, and located emergency response equipment within seconds, saving lives as a result.
Patience Alao: Nominated for Outstanding Security Officer
Patience, our security Team Lead at Chanel, has demonstrated commendable resourcefulness and professionalism throughout her career at Blackbird. As one of our Elite Suit and Tie Security clients, Chanel requires a delicate touch, strict professionalism, and outstanding customer service—all of which Patience excels in.
Customer service excellence is at the heart of Patience’s approach. She consistently goes above and beyond in her interactions with both customers and staff, maintaining the prestigious atmosphere that Chanel’s client base expects while providing top-quality security for the store.
Through her leadership, Patience has expertly handled numerous critical incidents, from coordinating responses during floods to managing security protocols following incidents of vandalism. Patience has been instrumental in the foundation of our service base in Quebec, providing invaluable stability and becoming a pillar of support for both our team and our clients in the province.
Alex Van Ryke: Nominated for Outstanding Young Security Professional
Our youngest Operations Manager, Alex Van Ryke oversees all of Blackbird Security’s operations in British Columbia and Quebec with expertise, skill, and professionalism. He demonstrates outstanding leadership, particularly in the operationally complex areas of Kelowna, Vancouver Island, and Quebec. Alex’s exceptional ability to problem solve, troubleshoot, and forge strong connections with both teams and clients makes him an indispensable asset to the team.
Alex joined the Blackbird Security team in 2020 as a uniformed security guard and quickly distinguished himself through his adaptability, integrity, and commitment to our core values. Within a remarkably short period of time, Alex grew his position to Site Supervisor, Field Supervisor, Distinct Manager, Regional Manager (Vancouver Island), and is now the acting Operations Manager, overseeing all security operations in British Columbia and Quebec.
One of Alex’s standout achievements within operations was stabilizing our challenging Vancouver Island region, which lacked licensed security personnel. Through Alex’s strategic vision, hands-on problem-solving, and close collaboration with regional, district, and operational managers, he united teams and allowed Blackbird Security to deliver outstanding service. Alex’s natural leadership qualities and exceptional communication skills have proven invaluable in bridging the administrative and operations teams. Alex’s career trajectory, beginning from the ground up, equips him with a unique perspective that resonates with all team levels, from guards to senior management, and helps him manage teams with both empathy and assurance.
Blackbird Security’s BC Indigenous Housing Society Security Team: Nominated for Outstanding Security Team
Our security team at the BC Indigenous Housing Society goes above and beyond traditional security services to create a safe, supportive environment for vulnerable community members. Our team of Akash Sharma, Anu Chaudhary, and Anamika Anamika has demonstrated exceptional dedication in this supportive role.
The team's comprehensive approach combines security protocols with compassionate resident care. Their duties include conducting hourly patrols across all building floors, monitoring for overdose prevention in washrooms and shower rooms, performing regular wellness checks on tenants, managing guest access and enforcing visitor protocols, and ensuring the safety of a sister building. On top of detailed shift reports, the team regularly debriefs with Tenant Support Workers as well as Frontline Support Workers. Throughout their shift, the team monitors CCTV cameras and fire alarm systems, ensuring swift responses to any emergencies in coordination with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services.
Beyond security duties, this team has demonstrated a commendable commitment to the well-being of residents. They regularly assist tenants with move-ins, coordinate with emergency services, and provide first aid assistance when needed. Their presence contributes to a welcoming, supportive, and comfortable atmosphere in the BC Indigenous Housing Society community. Through professionalism and dedication, this team exemplifies our commitment at Blackbird Security to providing community-oriented security services that prioritize both safety and relationships.
Recognizing Excellence at Blackbird Security
At Blackbird Security, we stand for excellence in all areas. We’re immensely proud of our team for continually protecting our clients’ businesses and communities while promoting safety across Canada. We're honoured to have these outstanding team members recognized as finalists by the OSPAs. Their nominations reflect not only their individual achievements but also Blackbird Security's commitment to maintaining the highest standards in the security industry.
Interested in learning more about our security services? Explore the links below:
- Mobile Patrol Security
- Construction Security
- Uniformed Security
- Elite Suit & Tie Security
- Executive Protection
- Office & Facilities Security
- Government Security
- Event Security
- Shopping Mall Security
- Front Gate Security
- Factory Security
- Shipyard Security
- Transportation Security
- Overnight Security
- Logistic Security
- Warehouse Security
- Hotel Security
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