Room to Shine Spotlight Series — Introducing Rory Cameron
Get ready to meet the heart and soul of Kamloops in our Room to Shine Spotlight Series! Each month, we're pulling back the curtain to celebrate the incredible individuals who make this city what it is today. From leading visionaries to the behind-the-scenes heroes, these stories will dive into the grit, passion, and genuine spirit that keep Kamloops shining bright. So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let's shine a light on what makes this place unforgettable—its people.
The heart of any great city is its people, the ones who pour their passion, creativity, and energy into making their community thrive. In Kamloops, Rory Cameron is one of those people.
As the Sous Chef at Delta Kamloops, Rory brings a deep appreciation for food, family, and the land to every dish that leaves the kitchen. With roots in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, a place where the Atlantic Ocean meets garden-fresh ingredients, Rory's journey in hospitality began as a teenager working in restaurants fueled by tourism. That early connection to food and community never left.
Four years ago, Rory and his husband made Kamloops home, moving here during the pandemic to be closer to family after spending time in Vancouver. Since joining the Delta, Rory has spent a year in the sous chef role, bringing his East Coast sensibility and dedication to quality to Kamloops' culinary scene. His work with Cordo and the Delta Hotel has been recognized both for its excellence in hospitality and its meaningful contributions to the community.
We're excited to spotlight a Kamloops champion like Rory!
TK: How did you first get into the tourism industry?
"I come from a small town in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, that is very much fueled by tourism and began working in restaurants as a teenager."
From those early days in Cape Breton's tourism-driven restaurant scene, Rory's career has been a journey of growth and learning. Starting in the dish area and eventually attending culinary school, he's embraced every step of the path, from the Maritimes to BC. It's a story of steady dedication, one that reflects the work ethic and humility that define so many great chefs.
TK: What fuels you? What drives your passion for the work you do?
"I grew up around food, digging in gardens and living by the Atlantic Ocean. My family loves growing and canning. I have always been surrounded by people who have an appreciation for what goes into the food and onto the table."
That connection to the source, to the soil, the ocean, and the hands that harvest, shapes everything Rory does in the kitchen. It's not just about cooking; it's about honoring the ingredients and the people behind them. In a world where food can feel disconnected from its origins, Rory's approach brings it all back home. His philosophy is rooted in respect, appreciation, and a deep understanding of what it takes to bring quality food to the table.
When asked about his goals, Rory's answer was simple but profound: "Continuing to grow and learn has always been my goal. From the kid who started in the dish area to culinary school, from the Maritimes to BC, I look forward to where the industry takes me." It's a mindset that keeps him evolving, always curious, always reaching for the next level of excellence.
TK: On your day off, what's your absolute favourite thing to do in Kamloops?
"We are outdoorsy people. We spend a lot of time fishing and camping, meals with family, and planning our next adventure."
For Rory and his husband, Kamloops offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor opportunity. Whether they're casting a line at a new lake or settling into a campsite under the stars, they're living the quintessential Kamloops lifestyle - one that celebrates adventure, connection, and the simple joy of being outside. And of course, those outdoor adventures are fueled by good food and great company.
TK: What makes Kamloops stand out for you?
"Kamloops and its surrounding areas are so beautiful. The abundance of new lakes to explore and campsites to try has been a great joy."
It's that sense of discovery that keeps Kamloops exciting. For someone who grew up by the Atlantic, the lakes and landscapes of the Interior offer endless possibilities. Every weekend brings a new trail, a new fishing spot, a new view, and for Rory, that spirit of exploration is part of what makes this city feel like home.
Rory also emphasized the strength of his team at the Delta: "Cordo and the Delta Hotel has been a great place to work. We are often recognized for the work we do both as a business but also for the community, great team to be a part of." That sense of pride in his workplace speaks volumes about the culture being built there, one where excellence and community engagement go hand in hand.
With deep roots in the hospitality industry and a commitment to growth, Rory Cameron is helping shape Kamloops' culinary landscape one plate at a time. His journey from Cape Breton to Kamloops is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a love for what you do.
For those looking to experience his impact firsthand, a visit to the Delta Kamloops is a must. Whether it's a thoughtfully prepared meal, the care that goes into every ingredient, or the warmth of a team that genuinely loves what they do, Rory's work is woven into every detail.
