Women of Distinction™
A celebration of women who are role models, trailblazers, and outstanding achievers.
Women of Distinction™ celebrates the contribution of women who've worked to improve the quality of life in Guelph, and beyond. It is a nationally recognized prestigious YWCA program, with a long history of shining a light on deserving women.
Initiated at the Guelph YMCA-YWCA in 1994 under the leadership of Pat McCraw (a dedicated and distinguished woman herself), the event has evolved and grown to change with the needs of our community. As our journey of justice, access, inclusion, diversity, and equity progresses we recognize all female identifying individuals through this special event.
Our YMCA of Three Rivers is pleased to continue collaborating with YWCA Canada to keep this special Guelph tradition going, honouring the people whose talents and efforts make our community stronger and better.
2026 Women of Distinction™ Award Ceremony
In 2026 we are pleased to recognize and induct new members into our Women of Distinction™ alumnae. Join us on May 27, 2026, from 5–8 pm, at the Italian-Canadian Club of Guelph for a special evening of celebration.
Announcing Our 2026 Honourees
The YMCA of Three Rivers is proud to recognize the 2026 Women of Distinction™ honourees. This award celebrates women whose outstanding achievements and dedication contribute to the health and vitality of our community.
The 2026 Women of Distinction™ Honourees:
Amanda Kavchak
Dr. Giannina Descalzi
Lynn Vanschaik
Stephanie Minett
Terrie Jarvis
Special Recognition:
Young Trailblazer: Jasmine Arora
Lifetime Achievement: Susan Carey
We invite you to join us on May 27th as we formally recognize the achievements of these outstanding leaders. Your attendance helps us continue to champion the power of women in our region.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
There are a number of volunteer roles available for our upcoming award ceremony. Should you wish to help, please reach out to our team at giving@ytr.ymca.ca to indicate which position you are interested in filling.
We are so grateful to our partners who support Y programs for women, girls and gender-diverse youth. This year’s Women of Distinction™ award ceremony is generously supported by:
PRESENTING LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Linamar
PRESENTING YOUNG TRAILBLAZER
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
BMO Nesbitt Burns
If you’d like to show your support by sponsoring our Women of Distinction™, please email your interest to giving@ytr.ymca.ca.
Champions of Women, Girls and Gender-Diverse Youth
We are so grateful to our partners who support Y programs for women, girls and gender-diverse youth. If you’d like to show your support this year by sponsoring our Women of Distinction™ Award Ceremony, please email your interest to giving@ytr.ymca.ca.
About the YMCA of Three Rivers Women of Distinction™ Events
There are two types of bi-annual events associated with Women of Distinction™:
Women of Distinction™ award ceremonies — these events, open to the public and all supporters, are when we honour and celebrate new honourees. These ceremonies are held during the spring in even alternating years. Click here to see photos of the 2024 event.
Women of Distinction™ alumnae events — these events are private events for women who have been recognized as honourees in the past. They are held during the spring of odd alternating years, and vary in timing and format with the goal of celebrating the talents and connections of this special group. Click here to see photos of the 2025 event.
If you are interested in supporting this event as a champion of women, girls and gender-diverse people, please view our sponsorship package here.