ESTEVAN — The tradition of honouring outstanding women in the southeast region will continue in 2024 with the announcement of the Â鶹ÊÓƵeast Women of Distinction Awards presented by Support You Life Coaching & Consulting.
The awards ceremony is set to take place at a luncheon on May 2 at the Wylie Mitchell Hall.
This year marks the second edition of the Women of Distinction Awards, established by a dedicated organizing committee known as Women 4 Women. The local group is committed to upholding the legacy of recognizing and celebrating the exceptional women who contribute to southeast Saskatchewan communities.
Following the success of last year's reinterpretation of the event, it has been moved to a larger venue at the Wylie Mitchell Hall. The awards luncheon will feature inspiring stories, a celebration of all nominees, lunch and more as the community honours the local women.
Becky Cassidy, chair of the event, emphasizes the importance of continuing the tradition:
"Taking the time to celebrate the contributions of the outstanding women from southeast Saskatchewan is not something that should be left in the past. This event was an important pillar in the community, and there is a need to keep the tradition going."
The Â鶹ÊÓƵeast Saskatchewan Women of Distinction Awards are open for nominations to all women residing in the southeast corner of the province. Details on the nomination process are available on the event's official website.
A "Woman of Distinction" is recognized for her impact on the community, demonstrating vision, creativity and initiative. These exceptional women serve as role models, inspiring others through their leadership. The awards span five categories:
1. Innovator Award (Entrepreneur/Leadership);
2. Outstanding Contribution to the Workplace Award;
3. Outstanding Young Visionary Award (Youth Award);
4. Equity and Inclusion Award (Non-traditional, Overcoming Barriers);
5. Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award.
The Â鶹ÊÓƵeast Women of Distinction Awards will also introduce a $2,000 scholarship to the Young Visionary Award winner, plus additional scholarships given to the other nominees in the category. These no-string-attached bursaries represent funds raised at last year's event. The intent is to create an annual award to assist the Young Visionary achieve her future goals.
A touching tribute initiated at the Women of Distinction Awards last year is the Trailblazer Walk, recognizing historical figures in the region in order to keep them from being lost to history. One new Trailblazer will be unveiled at the awards luncheon to join the inaugural group of four Trailblazers.
Nominations close on April 2 and previous nominations are welcome.
The winners of the awards will be announced at the awards luncheon taking place from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on May 2.
Tickets for the luncheon are $40 each or $300 for a table of eight and can be purchased at Henders Drugs or from any committee member starting on March 1.
For more information and to submit nominations, please visit www.sewomenofdistinction.com.
