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This award honours a woman who enriches the community through her commitment to the expression, preservation, promotion and/or support of the visual, literary, multimedia, architectural, cultural heritage, journalism, or performing arts. She has used her talents to improve the lives of women, girls, and gender-diverse people. She has enriched her community by excelling as a creator in her own right, and by encouraging the creative expression of others.   

This award honours a woman who mentors and empowers others by giving them the tools they need to make positive changes in their lives. She has made contributions through practice, research, or administration in formal and/or informal learning environments including the education system, employee training and development, community education, and/or alternative programs. She paves the way for future leaders, leveraging her achievements and inspiring others to seek knowledge and opportunities. 

This award honours a woman whose achievements as a business owner or leader demonstrate her commitment to solving problems, meeting community needs, and breaking barriers. She has a proven record of innovation, sustainability, and profitability in her field. She uses her success to advocate for and open doors to other women in business. She has demonstrated leadership within her field, facilitating change and opportunity.   

This award honours a woman who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in her role serving the public good in the community. As a community leader, she shows compassion and ethical responsibility in her service to others. She champions inclusivity and equity and makes significant contributions that enhance the lives of women, girls, and gender-diverse people.   

This award honours a woman whose exceptional leadership and dedication have created lasting and meaningful change in her community. What may have started as a volunteer effort has become a full-time commitment for this individual. She is an influential leader, passionate advocate, and dedicated volunteer. As a visionary trailblazer, she is a source of strength and inspiration for women, girls, and gender-diverse people.   

This award honours a woman who is dedicated to the pursuit of scientific, technological, or industrial advancement and/or research. She is a trailblazer in fields such as engineering, applied sciences, social sciences, life sciences, STEM, or the skilled trades. She recognizes the importance of elevating women and gender-diverse people in non-traditional occupations, leading by example and creating future opportunities for others in her field.    

This award honours a woman with an unwavering commitment to creating, promoting, and advocating for healthy lives and communities. She has empowered her community by improving health and wellness practices and outcomes. She demonstrates a commitment to advancing health equity and wellness for women, girls, and gender-diverse people.   

This award honours a woman aged 55 or older and has made significant and varied contributions to the community in any Women of Distinction award category. She is a role model who has tirelessly served as an advocate, volunteer and/or mentor over many years. She exhibits strength, wisdom, and character that inspire others. Nominees must be 55 or older as of December 31, 2025.   ​

This award honours a young person aged 25 or under who shows leadership at school, in the community, and/or in the workplace. A Young Trailblazer is an exceptional leader and an inspiration to others of their generation. They challenge the status quo, address community issues, and inspire others to do the same. Nominees must be 25 or under as of December 31, 2025.   

This award honours a woman or girl who has shown courage in her life and uplifted others along the way. She is dedicated to self-empowerment and to empowering those around her. She has participated in, or has been supported by, a YWCA Hamilton program or service, or volunteers with YWCA Hamilton. She is dedicated to self-advancement and to advancing others in her community. This honourary award is selected by YWCA Hamilton leadership.