The Women of Distinction Awards Gala, on Saturday, October 4th is a night to celebrate women who are role models, mentors, and have influenced women and girls through their accomplishments.
Join the community for a glamorous and unforgettable evening at the Steelworkers’ Union Hall and Conference Centre to honour six extraordinary women and one group of women who are trailblazers, innovators, and leaders in their fields and who have touched countless lives.
Choosing among remarkable women is a challenge
From entrepreneurs to activists, artists to scientists, this event showcases the diverse talents and accomplishments of women who have broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings in our own community.
The Women of Distinction Selection Committee spent a great deal of time trying to decide among the many worthy candidates. Julie Sauvé, Media and Special Events Coordinator for YWCA Sudbury says, “Earlier in the year, we brought together a committee, and we gathered nominations from people in the community who nominated amazing women who are doing amazing things to uplift, empower, and inspire other women around them.”
There are seven award recipients this year, including a 16-year-old who has inspired others simply with her long list of accomplishments. Sauve adds, “When our Women of Distinction Selection Committee reviewed these nominations, they were looking for women who had a significant and positive impact and who made a difference in the lives of women and girls in our community.”
Award Recipients
This is the 19th anniversary of the YWCA Sudbury Women of Distinction Awards.
The recipient of the Woman of Distinction Social Justice Award is Angela Giroux. Angela is a survivor of gender-based violence and a single mother of two who has championed systemic change and advocates for policies that prioritize the safety and dignity of women and girls.
Bela Ravi is the Community Action Woman of Distinction Award recipient. Bela, who immigrated to Canada in 1973, met her husband, raised two daughters and has spent the past 25 years working in community service and leadership roles in Sudbury. Her work has supported more lives than one can count, with grassroots safety initiatives to education, the arts, health, senior care, homelessness, and multiculturalism.
Daniela Grottoli is the recipient of the Young Woman of Distinction Award. At the age of 16, Daniela has received numerous accolades for her public speaking abilities and using her talents to bring awareness to STEAM education for girls. She’s coached and mentored girls in local hockey, and founded the KidSport Sudbury Chapter. She’s authored a book and helped secure a grant for robot kits for STEAM learning. Daniela is also on the City of Greater Sudbury Youth Advisory Council.
Sarra Gratton is a Woman of Distinction Award Recipient for Entrepreneurship. Sarra recently opened her own martial arts studio, “Rise Above Martial Arts” and is working toward her 4th degree black belt. A survivor of gender-based violence, Sarra offers free self-defense seminars for women, launched the “Fight Like a Girl” t-shirt campaign, and raises funds for YWCA Genevra House and other community programs.
Woman of Distinction Award Recipient Sherry Salo (Business & Professions) is the Executive Director of Community Living Greater Sudbury, an organization that serves youth and adults with developmental disabilities. She has extensive experience in the business world, she’s a professor at Cambrian College, and has had executive roles in the Local Health Integration Network. Sherry is committed to breaking down barriers for women and girls.
Gisele, Morgan, and Zana are the recipients of the Group of Women of Distinction Entrepreneur Award. They are compassionate women at Junessence Boutique who serve and support other women who need help with sensitive issues such as prosthetics, mastectomy wear, and surgical vests. Women who are self-conscious or traumatized by a breast cancer diagnosis are supported by the Junessence team through their healing journey.
The Cecile Gibson Memorial Award will go to a member of the YWCA Sudbury organization. Julie Sauvé says, “Cecile was a long-time team member at YWCA Sudbury who passed away last year and to honour her, we created this award. The award recipient will be an employee who exemplifies Cecile Gibson’s spirit. She was well-known for her compassion for animals and people, which shone through in her work and devotion to the women and values at YWCA Genevra House.”
Video vignettes of each award recipient will be presented that evening. These women will speak about the work they’ve done and what motivates them while offering words of inspiration to others.
Evening of Inspiration and Celebration
You are invited to an elegant awards evening at the Steelworkers’ Union Hall and Conference Centre, featuring a three-course dinner. Guests are invited to take part in a silent auction with items such as pottery, artwork, and gift certificates generously donated by women-led organizations, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
Beyond the glamour, the night is about connection and an opportunity to share stories, network, and celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of remarkable women in the community.
It’s also an opportunity to make a difference, with proceeds supporting YWCA Sudbury Youth Conferences that educate grades 7 and 8 students about gender-based violence, healthy relationships, and empowerment.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of an extraordinary evening that celebrates the remarkable achievements of women and be prepared to be inspired at the 2025 Women of Distinction Awards Gala.
To purchase tickets visit here. For more information call (705) 673-4754 or visit their website.