Entering its third decade of celebrating those who inspire, YWCA Metro Vancouver invites the community to nominate exceptional women throughout the region for its annual prestigious Women of Distinction Awards.
During the award show, laureates will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the communitys wellbeing.
With the upcoming edition marking the 30th anniversary of the awards, more than 374 women and organizations have been honoured and have had the opportunity to be showcased for their achievements in the community, said Chantelle Krish, advocacy and PR manager for YWCA Metro Vancouver.
Last year, three accomplished Richmond women were among the nominees.
While youth worker Hope Wang and executive director of Pacific Parkland Foundation Denise Coutts werent recipients in their categories, Violet Goosen, general manager of the Vancouver Chamber Choir, took home the Award for Arts, Culture and Design.
Through her encounters with laureates Krish has learned it means a lot for them to have their efforts recognized in that capacity.
She said the Women of Distinction Awards also raise the profile of important community work, as grassroots initiatives may eventually turn into developed programs.
In addition, one of the awards pays tribute to businesses or organizations supporting the diverse needs of their employees.
The Innovative Workplace award is for businesses who go above and beyond the basic policies; for those which foster growth and development for employees, while providing flexitime and recognizing the importance of work balance, said Krish, adding awareness of the need for gender equity plays a significant role as well.
Submissions for the Women of Distinction Awards are accepted until March 8 at 12 p.m. To nominate, visit ywcawomenofdistinction.org or call 604-895-5768.
Individual nominees must live within the Metro Vancouver region, including Hope, Pemberton, Sunshine Coast and the United States border. Winners will be announced at the Awards Dinner on May 28 at the Westin Bayshore. Tickets will be available from April 3 onwards at www.ywcawomenofdistinction.org/#! or 604-895-5825.
