A BENEFIT EVENT
Since 1994, the Women of Distinction Awards have recognized the role women play in advancing society. The awards celebrate the diversity of profiles and pathways, and highlight achievements whose impact extends beyond professional spheres, contributing to a more inclusive and egalitarian society.
By carrying on this tradition, the Women’s Y Foundation actively supports the YWCA Montreal’s essential programs and services. With more than 150 years of history, the organization continues its commitment to empowering women and girls.
NON-TRADITIONAL FIELDS
This year, we are shining a spotlight on women who are paving the way in non-traditional fields. To amplify their impact and continue breaking down barriers, we need allies ready to stand with us and support this essential cause.
THE 2026 AWARD CATEGORIES
A nomination may be submitted by a candidate, a third party, or a company/organization in one or more of the following four (4) categories:
Women in skilled trades or holding positions in the construction sector
Examples of trades
Carpenter · Welder · Electrician · Plumber · Crane operator · Heavy equipment operator
Examples of roles/areas
Construction sites · Supervision · Project management · Commercial or industrial construction · Infrastructure
Women working in IT, digital, and technological innovation fields
Examples of occupations
Developer · Programmer · Cybersecurity analyst · IT specialist · Data analyst
Women active in passenger or freight transportation.
Examples of occupations
Truck or bus driver · Pilot · Mechanic · Dispatcher · Railway technician
Examples of roles/areas
Road transportation · Logistics · Public transit
Women working to protect and ensure public safety.
Examples of occupations
Police officer · Firefighter · Correctional officer · Paramedic · Investigator
Examples of roles/roles
Emergency services · Civil protection · Emergency response · Public protection
The Women in Business Acquisition Award recognizes a woman who has distinguished herself through the acquisition of an existing business, including family succession, and her ability to ensure its continuity, growth, and long-term sustainability. Through her strategic vision, leadership, and commitment, she has a positive influence on her community and actively contributes to responsible and sustainable economic development.
Examples of occupations
SME acquirer · Family business successor · Executive turned business owner · Manager who took over an existing business
Support inspiring stories and contribute to a more equal future.
Reserve your place, book a table or make a donation.
2026 Women of Distinction Awards Laureates
Please consult the eligibility criteria, rules and required documents here to ensure that all the conditions necessary for acceptance of your application are met. (HIDDEN)
Selection Criteria(HIDDEN)
| Criteria | Weighting |
|---|---|
| Impact: Noteworthy accomplishments that led to positive and lasting change in our society. | 30% |
| Innovation: Positive changes in our society thanks to original, innovative concepts. | 20% |
| Engagement: Major contribution to community and social life, encouraging, specifically, solidarity and inclusion. | 30% |
| Inspiration: The ability to inspire, motivate and share values. | 20% |
Women of Distinction Awards Laureates(HIDDEN)
A prize awarded to inspiring women
The Women of Distinction Awards recognize the role of women in the advancement of society by bringing women to light who, through their commitment and achievements in their respective fields, have a positive and lasting impact in the society.
Through its added social value, this benefit event aims to support the YWCA Montreal, whose mission is to help build a better future for women and girls. This award is unique, particularly because of the profile diversity of its winners.
Over the past 30 years, more than 335 exceptional women and 2 men have received this award with pride in their respective categories