Rising Star
Ben Benavidez – Whiskey Thief Tasting Room
Ebi Jambang – Wyndham Garden East
Wesley Powell – 8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen
Alston Richardson – Omni Hotel
Abigail Rogers – Kentucky Bourbon Boys
Olivia Taylor – Angel’s Envy Distillery
Rose Award Voting will begin at 12:00 am on October 8th and end on October 16th at midnight on louisvilleroseawards.com.
Only one vote in each of the 11 categories will be counted from an individual email address.
Please share on your social media, louisvilleroseawards.com, and encourage your family & to read about these inspiring finalists and vote!
Ben Benavidez
Whiskey Thief Tasting Room
Ben Benavidez is a familiar presence at Whiskey Thief Tasting Room in NuLu and also supports the Franklin County distillery. Since the Louisville location opened in October 2024, he has served as experience lead, training staff and managing operations for live music, events, and fundraisers like Bourbonville and Unbridled Eve. Ben also maintains the flowers and plants at the facility and welcomes guests alongside his dog, Betty. He is active in the community as Director of Professional Development for YPAL, participates in the NuLu Business Association, and works as a dance intern and student at Crestview Studios. His dedication to both guests and staff makes him an integral part of the Whiskey Thief team.
Ebi Jambang
Wyndham Garden East
Ebi Jambang demonstrates exceptional leadership and dedication to Teranga Hospitality at Wyndham Garden East. He has created a supportive and professional environment that contributes to the success and growth of his team and the properties he manages. Ebi treats employees with kindness, goes the extra mile for clients and colleagues, and fosters a culture of teamwork and hospitality. He embodies strategic thinking, strong relationship-building, and a results-oriented approach. His leadership and hands-on involvement reflect the best of Louisville’s hospitality.
Wesley Powell
8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen
Wesley Powell has been a pivotal figure in the Louisville culinary scene, drawing on classical French and American traditions with a Kentucky twist. He has worked at Hotel Genevieve, Derby City Gaming, Monnik Brewing, and currently at 8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen. Wesley leads cooking classes and volunteers at Bloom Elementary to inspire the next generation, while modeling leadership and mentorship by example. Known for his warm personality, bright smile, and quirky sense of humor, he champions local ingredients and brings authenticity to every dish. His influence extends across Louisville’s culinary and cultural landscape.
Alston Richardson
Omni Hotel
Alston Richardson embodies what it means to grow with a team while elevating everyone around her at the Omni Hotel. From her time as a Leader in Development, she showed initiative and leadership beyond her title, creating projects like a competitive housekeeping board to boost team performance and morale. Now as Assistant Front Office Manager, she is consistently mentioned in guest feedback for going above and beyond and treats every guest with care, empathy, and warmth. Internally, she is respected by peers, trusted by leadership, and admired by her team. Alston’s ability to balance guest experience, team support, and operational excellence demonstrates her leadership and impact.
Abigail Rogers
Kentucky Bourbon Boys
Abigail Rogers is a crucial part of the Kentucky Bourbon Boys team, managing the driver and guide team while overseeing scheduling, onboarding, and training. She started by booking tours, answering phones, and coordinating lunches, and now handles internal files, itineraries, and best practices. Abigail anticipates everyone’s needs, provides thoughtful feedback, and creates unofficial weekend itineraries for guests. She also helps build a Louisville guide with favorite spots and keeps guides and guests updated on street closures, festivals, and events. Her organization, foresight, and dedication make her a key contributor to both the team and guest experience.
Olivia Taylor
Angel’s Envy Distillery
Olivia Taylor has spent eight years at Angel’s Envy Distillery, growing from Event Coordinator to Event Manager and now managing community partnerships and activations throughout the city. She has become a leader within the company and the community, consistently recognized for dedication, professionalism, and thoughtful leadership. Olivia invests in meaningful relationships and ensures every request from local attractions, nonprofits, and partners is carried out with care. Her commitment to partnership, community involvement, and collaboration reflects the values of Angel’s Envy. Olivia embodies the welcoming spirit that makes Louisville special.