I normally reserve this monthly column for business advice and industry updates that I know will be helpful to you, our members. But this month, I would be remiss if I didn’t devote this space to our dearly departed friend and colleague. It’s with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we dedicate this month’s spotlight to the incomparable Robbi Hamida, Senior Vice President of Nexion Travel Group, who passed away on July 4 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Robbi wasn’t just a leader — he was a beacon of light. For more than two decades, he shaped the culture, vision and heartbeat of Nexion. His brilliance in business was matched only by his quick wit and compassion for people. Whether he was mentoring an advisor, dazzling us with one of his signature suits, or cracking a perfectly timed joke, Robbi brought his cleverness, humor and flair to everything he touched.

Those of us lucky enough to work alongside him know the indelible mark he left — not only on our company, but on each of us as individuals. Robbi taught us how to lead with integrity, love boldly, and never underestimate the power of a little sparkle. His impact extends far beyond titles or milestones; it lives on in the community he nurtured, the people he empowered, and the joy he spread so generously.

In honor of that legacy, we’ve created a digital tribute — Robbi’s Ripple Effect — a space for all who knew and loved Robbi to share memories, stories, photos, and messages. We invite you to add your voice. This collection will be shared with his husband, Warren, as a reminder of how far and wide Robbi’s love and influence reached.

I can also say with certainty that Robbi was not only someone with a brilliant business mind, but a true and genuine friend to me and so many others in the Nexion community. I hope that he will always be remembered both for his contributions to Nexion and, perhaps more importantly, for simply being a gem of a human being who could bring any stuffy business meeting to life with his magnetic energy.

Robbi, this #1 spot is yours — today and always. Thank you for showing us what it means to lead with heart. You will never be forgotten.

Jackie