Women of the Year
Women of the Year 2021*
Tuesday, May 4 – 7:30pm – Virtual Event
The K-W Oktoberfest Rogers Women of the Year recognizes and pays tribute to outstanding women in the community in the following categories: Arts & Culture; Community Service; Entrepreneur; Health & Wellness; Lifetime Achievement; Professional; Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math (STEAM); and Young Adult.
Residents of the Region are encouraged to nominate their choice for Women of the Year and enjoy this evening with these distinguished women. Nominees can be someone who is involved in the community, an inspiration to others, a motivational person, someone who embraces change or demonstrates initiative, someone who recognizes and confirms success in others, or someone who touches people’s lives in a more quiet and compassionate way.
Be sure to attend this year’s virtual award ceremony!
*Women of the Year are inclusive of all women, non-binary, transgender, two-spirited, women of all classes, races, sexualities, ableness, and identities. KWO Women of the Year is for all women.
Samra Zafar is an award-winning internationally renowned speaker, bestselling author and educator for equity, mental health, and human rights. She has been recognized among the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, Top 25 Most Inspirational Women in Canada, and Top 25 Canadian Immigrants. Her book, A Good Wife: Escaping The Life I Never Chose, based on her journey of escaping an abusive child marriage to pursue her education, shed light on gender-based oppression, is a national bestseller, was one of CBC’s Best Books of 2019, and is being adapted to a premium TV series. She serves as a Governor at the University of Toronto, a Celebrated Ambassador for Plan International, and a board member for Women’s College Hospital Foundation. Her work has impacted millions and has been extensively featured in national and global media. Samra’s speaking portfolio includes three successful TED Talks, and many leading corporations, universities, and nonprofits around the world. Read More >
Special appearance by The Reklaws who will do a special tribute to Jennifer Campbell of Country 106.7.
A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region – logo sent.
Award Categories
Arts & Culture
For enriching the culture of our community through creation or promotion of the arts on a volunteer or professional basis.
Jayme Armstrong, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Community Service
For generously volunteering her time to programs and services that make our community a better place.
Julie Sawatzky, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Entrepreneur
For initiating and/or administering an enterprise or business.
Jill Zappitelli, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Health & Wellness
For promoting and helping others achieve and promote mental, physical or spiritual well-being in her career or community involvement.
Dr. Linda Lee, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Lifetime Achievement
For over 25 years, has been a role model, mentor and/or advocate for positive social change.
Donna Dubie, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Professional
For dedicating herself to the pursuit of excellence in her chosen career.
Jennifer Gordon, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
STEAM
For outstanding advancement to the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math.
Sherry Shannon-Vanstone, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Young Adult (14 to 23)
For leading by example and being a role model to her peers.
Fatima Awan, 2021 Recipient
Sponsored by:
Sponsored By:
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