The Women Empowerment Awards: Celebrating Women Leaders and Changemakers in Canada

The Women Empowerment Awards was a meticulously produced event, designed to embody the essence of celebration, inspiration, and unity. The evening’s production was nothing short of spectacular, with elegant décor, sophisticated lighting, inspiring activations and a seamless flow of the program that made each moment feel special. From the red carpet arrivals, where guests like Coco Rocha and Keshia Chanté dazzled, to the inspiring speeches from ministers and honorees, every element was thoughtfully curated. The highlights included powerful acceptance speeches, an uplifting musical performance, and emotional moments of connection between award winners and attendees. The event culminated in the presentation of two $10,000 grants, further reinforcing the night’s mission to support women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.

Rising by Lifting Others

At the heart of the Women Empowerment Awards is a profound belief that “we rise by lifting others.” This event is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s a movement. It provides women with a platform to share their stories, experiences, and achievements, offering a space where their voices can be heard and amplified. By celebrating the contributions of women leaders and entrepreneurs who have made a lasting impact on society, the awards aim to inspire and motivate others to follow in their footsteps.

A Night to Remember: Celebrity Guests and Powerful Speeches

The star-studded red carpet was graced by influential figures such as supermodel Coco Rocha, Grammy-winning singer Keshia Chanté, and Miss Universe Canada 2024, Ashley Callingbull. These high-profile guests brought an extra layer of glamour and attention to the event, helping to shine a spotlight on the importance of empowering women.

Among the notable speakers were Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, Charmaine Williams, and Minister of Small Business, Rechie Valdez. Both leaders delivered passionate speeches about the crucial role women play in shaping Canada’s future and the need to continue fostering opportunities for women to succeed across all sectors.

Adding to the evening’s impact were key sponsors Sylvia Mantella and Suzanne Rogers, two of Canada’s most influential philanthropists. Sylvia Mantella, representing Mantella Corporation, spoke to the company’s commitment to supporting diversity and women entrepreneurs through initiatives like the Entrepreneur BIPOC Grant Award. Suzanne Rogers, expressed her dedication to empowering female leaders and innovators, underscoring the importance of giving women the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Both women exemplify the values celebrated by the Women Empowerment Awards, and their support helped make the event a resounding success. 

Celebrating Excellence Across Ten Categories

The Women Empowerment Awards honored outstanding women across ten distinct categories, ranging from leadership and entrepreneurship to mentorship and advocacy. The winners were not only celebrated for their accomplishments but also for their ability to inspire others and drive meaningful change in their communities.

Notably, the event awarded two prestigious $10,000 grants, recognizing women who have demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence and innovation:

• Rogers Communications Entrepreneur of the Year Grant Award: Lauren Burrows, Co-Founder of BUZZD Nutrition
• Mantella Corporation Entrepreneur BIPOC Grant Award: Kimesha Walters, CEO of Oasis Integrated Communications

Other honorees included:

• Global Impact Award: Joan Kelley Walker, Joan Kelley Walker Enterprises
• Leadership Award: Sara Austin, Founder & CEO of Children First Canada
• Rising Star Award: Hannah Flores, Spoken Word Poet
• Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Award: Elise Ahenkorah, Global Inclusion Strategist at Inclusion Factor
• Businesswoman of the Year Award: Dimitra Davidson, President & COO of Indeed Labs
• Mentorship Award: Ifeoma Esonwune, Founder & CEO of The Women’s Star Network
• Innovation Award: Charlene Brophy, CEO of Fonemed
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Chan Hon Goh, Goh Ballet Canada

Collective Mission to Close the Gender Gap

One of the central themes of the Women Empowerment Awards is the collective mission to close the gender gap in leadership, entrepreneurship, and business. The event brought together a community of women from diverse backgrounds and industries, all driven by a common goal: to empower women from all walks of life.

Supported by Industry Leaders

The Women Empowerment Awards would not be possible without the support of its key sponsors. Leading organizations such as Rogers, Mantella Corporation, Canadian Western Bank, Audi, and Holt Renfrew are committed to advancing opportunities for women and championing gender equality in the business world.

As we look ahead, the Women Empowerment Awards will continue to serve as a beacon of hope, inspiration, and opportunity, motivating women to achieve their fullest potential.