YWCA Women of Distinction Awards

The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards recognize those women in our community who, through their own initiative, ability, and effort, have made exemplary achievements in their fields – women who are outstanding role models because of their goals and the way they have achieved these goals.

YWCA Women of Distinction are leaders, mentors, facilitators, communicators, supporters, and listeners. Whether recognized as trailblazers in their fields or young women on the rise, all are pathfinders, bringing forth the key issues facing Canadian women. As a women’s organization, we are committed to increasing public recognition of these incredible women who call Lethbridge home.

Each year, YWCA Lethbridge & District honours women who have made substantial contributions to the social fabric of our community in unique and individual ways.

Nominate the outstanding Woman of Distinction in your life today!

Nomination Package

Download the full nomination package here.

New this year, we’re accepting video submissions as part of your nomination!

All submissions must be received before midnight on January 29, 2025 by emailing communications@ywcalethbridge.com

Nomination Package

2025 Women of Distinction Tickets

Join us at this year’s Awards Dinner by securing your tickets here.

This highly-anticipated annual event is expected to sell out, as we showcase the incredible women in our community.

Members, Laureates – connect with us at communications@ywcalethbridge.com for your special pricing access code.

Buy Your Tickets

The Catalyst for Change Award

The Catalyst for Change Award celebrates women who have made extraordinary contributions to their workplaces, professions, and communities through their remarkable achievements. This prestigious recognition honors those who:

Surpass expectations in their professional roles
Serve as inspirational figures and mentors
Empower others to enhance their workplaces or communities
Drive positive transformation and innovation

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award demonstrate a commitment to fostering open dialogue and understanding within their organizations and communities. They actively work towards addressing historical injustices and promoting equity in their spheres of influence.

Mind, Body & Spirit
The award recognizes women leaders who prioritize comprehensive well-being in their initiatives, addressing:

Mental and emotional health in the workplace
Physical wellness programs for employees and community members
Spiritual and cultural connections that honor diverse backgrounds
Social impact that extends beyond their immediate roles

By honoring these exceptional women, the Catalyst for Change Award not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires others to become agents of positive change in their own environments. The award acknowledges that true leadership goes beyond professional success, encompassing a holistic approach to improving lives and fostering inclusive, equitable workplaces and communities.

The award recognizes that these women are at the forefront of driving representation and inclusion, often outperforming industry standards in advancing women, including women from marginalized groups, into leadership positions. Their initiatives serve as best-in-class examples of how intentional, strategic efforts can create workplaces that truly work for all women

The Bridge Builder Award

The Bridge Builder Award celebrates individuals who embody the essence of community service and connection. This prestigious award honors volunteers who have made a transformative impact on their local community through their selfless dedication and innovative approaches to fostering unity and well-being.

The Bridge Builder Award recognizes those who:

Create and strengthen connections between diverse groups and individuals within the community
Demonstrate exemplary service and engagement both within and beyond their immediate surroundings
Use their skills and passion to inspire positive change and uplift underserved populations
Promote holistic wellness by addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of community health

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award actively work towards building understanding and healing within their communities. They create spaces for open dialogue, acknowledge historical injustices, and foster environments where diverse perspectives are valued and respected.

Mind, Body & Spirit
The award recognizes individuals who take a comprehensive approach to community well-being. This includes initiatives that support:

Physical health and access to resources
Mental and emotional support systems
Spiritual and cultural connections
Social cohesion and inclusive community building

By honoring these exceptional volunteers, the Bridge Builder Award not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires others to engage in meaningful community service that creates lasting, positive change.

The Icon of Impact Award

The Icon of Impact Award celebrates women who have not only established successful businesses but have also emerged as influential leaders and role models in their communities. This prestigious award honors those who:

Have built thriving enterprises through innovation and perseverance
Serve as inspirational figures for other women in business and leadership
Pioneer groundbreaking programs, practices, partnerships, or policies
Create significant positive impact on the lives of women or the broader community

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award demonstrate a commitment to fostering open dialogue and understanding within their businesses and communities. They actively work towards addressing historical injustices and promoting equity in their spheres of influence.

Mind, Body & Spirit
The award recognizes women leaders who prioritize comprehensive well-being in their initiatives, addressing:

Mental and emotional health in the workplace
Physical wellness programs for employees and community members
Spiritual and cultural connections that honor diverse backgrounds
Social impact that extends beyond profit to create meaningful change

By honoring these exceptional women, the Icon of Impact Award not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs and leaders to create businesses and initiatives that drive positive transformation in society.

The award acknowledges that true innovation goes beyond technological advancements, encompassing social entrepreneurship and community-focused initiatives that address pressing issues and enhance quality of life for all.

The Guiding Light Award

The Guiding Light Award celebrates women who exemplify excellence in education and mentorship, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity to inspire, guide, and nurture both students and colleagues. This prestigious award honors those who:

Exhibit exemplary professional practices in education or mentorship
Possess an exceptional ability to inspire and guide others
Help protégés reach crucial milestones on their career paths
Foster holistic wellness and personal growth in those they mentor

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award actively promote open dialogue and understanding, creating safe spaces for diverse perspectives. They acknowledge historical injustices and work towards healing and reconciliation within educational settings.

Mind, Body & Spirit
The award recognizes educators and mentors who take a comprehensive approach to nurturing their protégés, addressing:

Mental and emotional well-being
Physical health and self-care practices
Spiritual and cultural connections
Social and professional development

By honoring these exceptional women, the Guiding Light Award not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires others to embrace mentorship as a powerful tool for personal and professional transformation

The Shattered Ceilings Award

The Shattered Ceilings Award celebrates women who have excelled in their chosen fields, breaking barriers and making significant positive impacts on their communities. Recipients of this award serve as role models, demonstrating that women can thrive in any field, including traditionally male-dominated industries. Their success stories challenge stereotypes, promote diversity, and contribute to breaking the glass ceiling for all women in the workforce.

This prestigious award honors those who:

Demonstrate exceptional achievement and leadership in their profession
Overcome challenges and stereotypes, particularly in male-dominated industries
Inspire and pave the way for other women to succeed
Contribute meaningfully to the betterment of their community

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award actively promote open dialogue and understanding within their workplaces and communities. They acknowledge historical injustices and work towards creating more inclusive and equitable environments for all.

Mind, Body & Spirit
The award recognizes women who prioritize comprehensive well-being in their professional and personal lives, addressing:

Mental and emotional health in the workplace
Work-life balance and self-care practices
Cultural and spiritual connections
Social impact and community engagement

By honoring these exceptional women, the Shattered Ceilings Award not only celebrates their individual achievements but also inspires future generations to pursue their ambitions without limitations. The award acknowledges that true success goes beyond professional accomplishments, encompassing a holistic approach to personal growth and community upliftment.

The Young Woman of Promise Award

Women under 30 years of age who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in academia, career, or community development and serve as role models to others. Recipients serve as beacons of hope and possibility, demonstrating that young women can make significant impacts in various fields while maintaining a commitment to their own well-being and the betterment of society.

This prestigious recognition honors those who:

Exhibit outstanding accomplishments in their chosen field
Serve as inspiring role models to their peers and younger generations
Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to personal growth
Contribute meaningfully to the betterment of their communities

Key Elements

Truth and Reconciliation
Recipients of this award actively promote open dialogue and understanding within their spheres of influence. They work towards addressing historical injustices and fostering environments of equity and inclusion.

Mind Body & Spirit
The award recognizes young women who prioritize comprehensive well-being in their pursuits, addressing:

Mental and emotional health
Physical wellness and self-care practices
Spiritual and cultural connections
Social impact and community engagement

By honoring these exceptional young women, the Young Woman of Promise Award not only celebrates their early career achievements but also inspires future generations to pursue their ambitions without limitations. The award acknowledges that true success encompasses a holistic approach to personal development and community upliftment.

The Lottie M. Austin Lifetime Achievement Award

This lifetime achievement award recognizes women who have made significant, long-lasting, and worthwhile contributions to their community, have served as role models, and made a powerful impact thanks to their tireless efforts as advocates, volunteers, and by being a true inspiration for all through a body of work that demonstrates exceptional accomplishments in multiple award categories.