YWCA renames awards to recognize gender-diverse achievements and come full circle

The long-running YWCA St. John's Women of Distinction awards look different this year. The advocacy group, which recognizes, supports and celebrates women, is rebranding to bring in gender-diverse individuals.

This expansion includes renaming the awards, which will now be known as the Circle of Distinction Awards.

"That circle is about gender-diverse people, to celebrate women and gender-diverse people, and widen the circle of recognition," said Maria Gentle, the executive director of YWCA.

Gentle says the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic gave the organization a chance to reflect, and this new turn is reflective of its values, mission and goals.

"We are just hoping to build that community, to lift up how support can change the lives of women and gender-diverse people, and let that ripple effect take place," she said.

The organization says the awards provide a platform to celebrate and share empowering stories of women and gender-diverse people to inspire others.

Nominees are people "break barriers and overcome obstacles to make a difference in the lives of others," according to the YWCA's website.

"Now more than ever as we hear challenges in politics, the national discussions, this is a very important conversation," said Gentle.

With ongoing debates on gender pronouns and protests against trans rights across Canada, the YWCA says the change couldn't come at a better time.

"A circle is synonymous with wholeness and collaboration. I think it's fitting that the YWCA, which is a part of a global community and movement, has come full circle. It means we've paid attention," said Delores V. Mullings, a 2019 award recipient and the keynote speaker for this year's awards.

Gains in increasing diversity

When Mullings was recognized for her outstanding achievements in mentorship and education, she recalls looking around the room and noticing a lack of diversity. At that time she asked those present to rethink award ceremonies and who is at the table.

The 2023 awards reflect that work,said Mullings, with a broader array of voices and representation in the 25 nominees.

"We've actually made gains so it's exciting," said Mullings, Memorial University's vice-provost of equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and a national YWCA board member, 

The 2023 YWCA Circle of Distinction Awards take place Monday at the Emera Innovation Exchange at Memorial University's Signal Hill campus. This year's ceremony is hosted by St. John's sketch comedy group Mom's Girls.

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