They have personally identified a local community need or issue and initiated meaningful change, dedicating their own time and resources to champion their cause. What started as a volunteer crusade could now be a full-time or paid role for this leader. They have made a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver while being recognized as a source of strength and heart in their communities and are able to harness the time, talent and capacity of others. They may be founding members, administrators, board members or another community-minded leaders. 

They inspire a passion for life-long learning in those around them and have made significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver. They contribute through practice, research or administration in a learning environment including the education system, employee training and development, community education and/or alternative programs. They motivate others to gain knowledge, set goals or seek opportunities. They may be academics, educators, administrators or other champions of learning. 

They have taken an innovative approach to solving a problem, filling a need or breaking into a new market. Their drive, ingenuity and solid vision for their businesses separates them from their competitors. They have made sacrifices and taken great risks to successfully launch, revive or manage a business, all while having made a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver. They may be a founders, owners, leaders or other innovators who have been operating for a minimum of three years.

They are dedicated to promoting and creating the practices that contribute to a sustainable community, while having made a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver. They generate opportunities that minimize the physical, ecological, human and economic impact on our planet. They collaborate with and educates others to identify strategies and solutions for good environmental practices and partnerships. They may be advocates, leaders, administrators or other promoters of green initiatives and practices. 

They have an unwavering commitment to delivering, promoting and advocating for healthy lives and communities. They have made significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver while empowering their communities to change or better their lives through improved health and wellness practices. They may be physicians, practitioners, nurses or other women committed to health and wellness. 

Hired or summoned to the role for their exemplary qualifications, they propel change through their leadership, professionalism and vision within the non-profit sector. They have made significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver while strengthening and building momentum and capacity by advocating for important issues and/or causes. They mentor, inspire and mobilize others through their personal commitment and passion. They have successfully identified new opportunities, resources and/or partnerships. They may be directors, CEOs, and/or visionaries. 

Honouring two unique women, an Indigenous leader and an ally, working independently and committed to finding a new way forward. They engage their communities in dialogue and actions to strengthen relationships. They have made a significant and sustained difference across Metro Vancouver by supporting healing and building more just and equitable communities for all people. They may be a champion or advocate committed to the reconciliation movement. 

They have made a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver through their dedicated pursuit of scientific, technological and/or research-based discoveries. They are highly respected in their field and is a sought-after visionary and mentor of other women. Their dedicated approach to their industry and/or program signifies their leadership and critical thinking abilities. They may be scientists, researchers, senior administrators or other leaders. 

They are exceptional young women aged 18-25 who demonstrate leadership, maturity and compassion. They have made significant difference in Metro Vancouver through their commitment to a cause or pursuit of a personal dream while showing perseverance, innovation and a keen understanding of community issues. 

This award category recognizes a business or organization that has implemented a unique workplace culture. It supports and responds to the diverse needs of its employees, encouraging them to balance the demands and rewards of career, family, community and personal growth. This business or organization acknowledges the additional challenges that its underrepresented employees may face and proactively supports the success and advancement of women in its workplace. 

Eligible nominees must: 

1. Live and work (individuals) or operate (businesses and organizations) within the Metro Vancouver region bounded by and including Hope, Pemberton, Sunshine Coast and the United States border 

2. Not currently be taking part in a campaign or serving a term in office as an elected government official 

3. Satisfy each of the nomination criteria for their award category 

4. Consent to the nomination and the publication of their name, photo and information 

5. Attend the Women of Distinction Awards photoshoot 

6. Be available to attend the event 

7. For the Young Woman of Distinction category, be 18-25 years of age as of March 8th, in the same year of the awards. 

8. Satisfy the YWCA Metro Vancouver Women of Distinction Values Statement (see below) 

9. Submit a quote and participate in the Connecting the Community Award (individuals only) 

On your application, you will need to provide at least three examples for each criteria below:

• Criteria 1: The nominee has shown vision and initiative to break new ground or old barriers for the chosen category. 
• Criteria 2: The nominee has demonstrated key accomplishments that help them stand out among their peers for the chosen category. 
• Criteria 3: The nominee is a leader and role model within the chosen category. 
• Criteria 4: Volunteer activities in within their field and related to the chosen category. 
• Criteria 5: The nominee has been recognized by the community for their sustained commitment and accomplishments within the chosen category (i.e. awards, accolades).

On your application, you will need to provide at least three examples for each criteria below:

Criteria 1: This business or organization has proven to be a role model in best workplace practices outside the box of what is standard. What innovative initiatives have been implemented exclusively for employees? How have they been progressive and responsive to employee needs? 
Criteria 2: This business or organization supports the advancement and success of women in the workplace as it pertains to the broader employee population. 
Criteria 3: This business or organization is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. 
Criteria 4: This business or organization is committed to truth and reconciliation.
Criteria 5: Describe how this business or organization supports employee volunteerism and community initiatives.
Criteria 6: This business or organization promotes healthy lifestyles for its employees.

All nominations must be completed online. We recommend that you complete your work in a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word, and then copy and paste it into the form when ready. Please refer to the FAQ page. 

The Nominations Committee reviews all submissions for completeness, eligibility and ensures that each nomination fulfills ALL of the nomination criteria. Please note that not every nomination submission is accepted. Accepted nominations are forwarded to an independent Selection Committee. The Nominations Committee and Selection Committee reserve the right to withhold an award in any category.  

As we celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Women of Distinction nominees and award recipients, we honour those who embody YWCA Metro Vancouver’s core values. These individuals show their commitment to advancing gender equity through their dedication, empathy and intentional actions. They demonstrate courage by standing up against systemic injustices and working toward positive change. They build community by creating genuine relationships, embracing diversity and collaborating effectively. They empower others by encouraging growth, respecting individual choices and nurturing the potential of those around them. 

The YWCA recognizes individuals and organizations whose work aligns with our vision, mission and advocacy priorities. We do not recognize those who diverge from our core values—including our philosophy on women's representation—specifically, those who promote the hyper-sexualization of women, offer products or services that could harm YWCA participants, or are involved in proven criminal activity or professional misconduct. 

We remain dedicated to honouring individuals whose work and character reflect our commitment to equity, justice and empowerment, while maintaining the standards that ensure our integrity and respect. Thank you for your understanding as we uphold our principles. 

Please be aware that this content may change as our standards and values evolve. 

The YWCA Metro Vancouver Women of Distinction Awards seeks nominations for individuals who exemplify and drive positive change, whether through their direct actions or as inspirational figures. Nominees must have activities and achievements that align with the YWCA’s mission and vision. Their engagement in work, leisure, or specific interests should reflect and promote the essence of gender equity, as defined by the YWCA Metro Vancouver’s mission and vision. Should a nominee’s past or present behaviour or statements undermine the YWCA’s reputation or question the integrity of the award, the YWCA holds the authority to revoke a nomination or an award. Nominations can be withdrawn by either the nominee or the nominator for any reason, provided this is done in writing up to two weeks prior to the awards ceremony. Such withdrawals will be recognized and processed by the YWCA with immediate effect.