The Women of Distinction Awards began in 1984. Despite the progress that has been made over the last 41 years, women continue to face barriers in the workplace in all industries. The YWCA believes those who are driving positive change deserve to be recognized and wants to encourage these women to continue the important work they do. Through these awards, the YWCA hopes to inspire others to engage with their community and the next generation of change-makers to strive for a more equitable world (taken from the YWCA website).
About the Awards
The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards are a symbol of progress. The awards are about bringing a diverse community together to empower one another and advancing gender equality. The awards are a celebration of women and gender-diverse individuals who have spoken up and raised the standards for all.
A CHV Nomination
There are 12 different award categories for Women of Distinction. This year, CHV’s own Chelsea Minhas, Chief Program Officer, has been nominated for an award under the Non-Profit category.
The criteria for someone to be nominated in this category are: “Hired or summoned to the role for her 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.”
Chelsea was nominated because of her dedication to harm reduction that led to the Covenant House Harm Reduction Pilot Program. Distributing more than 2,000 harm reduction kits and 370 naloxone kits to youth in a developmentally appropriate way, the program has significantly improved mental health outcomes and reduced harmful incidents. Chelsea’s anti-human trafficking project, in collaboration with Women and Gender Equality Canada, resulted in the Lower Mainland Anti-Trafficking Table and a youth anti-human trafficking toolkit that has been praised across North America and was used by over 50 agencies within a year.
Congratulations Chelsea!
The awards ceremony took place last night, and we are delighted to announce that Chelsea has won a Women of Distinction Award in the Non-Profit category.
When asked what winning the award meant to her, Chelsea said, “Receiving the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Non-Profit category is such an honour. It’s an affirmation that our programs and services are making a difference in the lives of the young people we walk alongside, and that together we can make a difference. My hope is that all young people know what it feels like to be seen, heard, and to know that they matter. This award is about the youth — their strength, resilience, and courage. Our work is not done. This honour fuels our commitment to continue to advocate for change and to amplify the voices of those we serve.”
Congratulations to all of the nominees and award winners for making such a difference in the community, and to Chelsea, for your unwavering dedication and commitment to the youth we serve!