Nominations are open for the 46th YWCA Toronto Distinction Awards
[formerly YWCA Toronto’s Women of Distinction Awards]
YWCA Toronto Distinction Awards celebrates trailblazers, feminist role models and champions who challenge systems of power, advocate for women, children and gender diverse people, and create opportunities for them to grow and succeed. These visionary women and gender diverse individuals, are making real, positive change in our communities and beyond.
Since 1981, YWCA Toronto has been honouring and celebrating changemakers in our city who are committed to creating lasting change in the lives of women, girls and gender diverse people. From across multiple fields of expertise such as business, education, social justice, advocacy, arts, health, and philanthropy, our distinction award recipients have championed gender equity by building spaces where every voice matters.
YWCA Toronto's Distinction Awards has honoured visionary leaders from across sectors for over 40 years. Here are a few of our outstanding award recipients: Zanana Akande, Margaret Atwood, The Honourable Jean Augustine, Willa Black, Sherry Brydson, Kiki Delaney, Denise Dwyer, Janice Fukakusa, The Honourable Roberta Jamieson, The Honourable Margaret N. McCain, Deepa Mehta, Reeta Roy, June Rowlands, Connie Walker and The Honourable Hilary M. Weston.
Learn more about the 2026 Award Recipients and other alum.
Nominate the next YWCA Toronto Distinction Award Recipient Today!
The nomination deadline is Monday, November 2, 2026 at 10:00p.m.
How to Submit a Nomination
- Create an Account:
Sign up on the nomination platform to begin the nomination process.
- Complete the Online Form:
Answer all five questions thoroughly, providing as much detail as possible to support your nomination.
- Write a One-Page Introduction Letter:
Introduce your nominee and highlight their impact, leadership and achievements in advancing the lives of women, girls, and gender diverse people.
- Gather Letters of Support:
Secure two letters of support from individuals who can attest to the nominee’s impact and contributions.
- Submit Your Nomination:
Once you have completed all required fields and uploaded your introduction letter and letters of support, click Submit to finalize your nomination.
We strongly encourage nominations that recognize the contributions of Black, Indigenous and racialized people, as well as 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
Nomination Form
For more information, contact Jacqueline Willis, Event and Stewardship Officer at jwillis@ywcatoronto.org.