Oktoberfest Ambassador
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is pleased to announce their newest Ambassador, Katie Kneisel.
She succeeds 2023-2024 Oktoberfest Ambassador, Allie Steffler.
About the Program
The Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Ambassador Program is a one-of-a-kind role with a unique blend of opportunities for self-growth, skill development, and volunteerism, all while celebrating both Bavarian culture and our local diverse community. Open to residents of Waterloo Region aged 19 to 29, the Ambassador holds a prominent team role with K-W Oktoberfest; partaking in public speaking, media appearances, social media account management, Oktoberfest Cares initiatives and so much more.
The Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Ambassador Program operates on four pillars:
Community
Festival Traditions
Giving Back
Personal Passion
Willkommen to our 2024-2025 Oktoberfest Ambassador!
Katie Kneisel
A 26-year-old aspiring teacher and learning specialist, Katie recently completed her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education, with a minor in Educational Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University and plans to attend teachers’ college this upcoming year.
Katie is eager to take over the role as Oktoberfest Ambassador because of a deep appreciation for her German heritage and her passion for community engagement, social networking and focus on inclusivity. “K-W Oktoberfest is not only a celebration of culture, but also an opportunity to connect with others and foster a sense of belonging,” shares Katie Kneisel. “I aim to utilize this platform to spread positivity throughout our community while inspiring others to embrace diversity, be present in the moment and cultivate compassion for one another.”
Request the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Ambassador to attend your event!
2023-2024 Oktoberfest Ambassador!
Alexandra (Allie) Steffler
A recent Masters of Arts, Media Production graduate at Toronto Metropolitan University, Allie is currently working as a Producer’s Executive Assistant at Scythia Films.
As a life-long resident of Waterloo Region, Allie has witnessed the positive impact that the Festival has made on the community. “Oktoberfest holds a special place in my heart, making it my most cherished time of the year,” says new Oktoberfest Ambassador, Allie Steffler. “My goal is to create an atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to experience the unity that Oktoberfest embodies. Becoming an Oktoberfest Ambassador allows me to contribute to the continuation of a beloved heritage, while enhancing it to better reflect our evolving community. I aim to be a bridge between tradition and progress.”
Like last year, the Oktoberfest Ambassador was announced on the closing day of activities, allowing the successful candidate a full year to participate in community events and activities to help build upon their public relation skills for the next Festival. “We had several impressive applicants this year and our Ambassador team and Selection committee worked diligently to ensure an engaging and fair process,” shares Allan Cayenne, Oktoberfest President. “We look forward to helping Allie connect with the community, achieve her goals, all while spreading that fantastic Gemütlichkeit spirit.
2022-2023 Oktoberfest Ambassador!
Samantha Hild
Samantha is a recent graduate from the CMU College of Makeup Art & Design, who has grown up attending the festival. Samantha says that through the pandemic she turned to artistic expression and social media as a tool to overcome her anxiety. She is passionate about mental health awareness, art and design, and being a positive role model to younger generations.
“The past few years have been life changing for me,” says Samantha. “I have suffered from anxiety for the past 10 years but finally feel I have control over it now, mostly thanks to social media. I started using TikTok when the pandemic hit and it has drastically improved my confidence, communication skills and mental health.”
Samantha wants to use her time as the Oktoberfest Ambassador to encourage kindness and positivity, and promote mental health awareness.
FAQ’s
Is this replacing Miss Oktoberfest?
We have retired the Miss Oktoberfest program. The Ambassador Program was created to reflect our changing festival and the diverse community that we call home. The program is designed to be inclusive to all Oktoberfest and community champions.
Do I need to be German/Bavarian to be considered?
No! You just need to have a passion for our festival and our local community.
Who can apply?
Anyone between the ages 19-29 and residing within 40km of Waterloo Region can apply! We are welcoming of all gender identities, races, and cultures.
How is the Ambassador chosen?
Selection is based on the application, interview process with the selection panel, and overall participation in the pre-interview events. Stay tuned for dates on the pre-interview events.
What are the benefits of the program?
- Personal growth in areas such as public speaking, confidence, trying new things, meeting new people
- Career advancement opportunities in areas of networking, community involvement, and volunteerism
- Training in areas such as diversity & inclusion, media appearances, and social media
- This is a unique chance to be involved with both Oktoberfest and other events in our local community in a way that you could not experience elsewhere – like the “VIP” experience, “behind the scenes” , etc.
What kind of activities does the Ambassador do?
- Public speaking engagements, community appearances, opportunities to volunteer within the festival and alongside community partners
- Supporting/managing a social media platform
- Appearances throughout Oktoberfest, such as Official Keg Tapping, Festhallen visits, Thanksgiving Day Parade, Oktoberfest Cares events
How long is the role/what kind of commitment?
Year-long commitment, heaviest time commitment is during the festival itself.
How much does it cost to apply?
There are NO application fees
What do I need to wear as the Ambassador? Do I need to own tracht?
No, you do not need to own tracht! We encourage applicants to dress accordingly for their interviews or event appearances.
