Women of the Year Awards Judging

Judging Criteria by Category

Leader
How has the nominee demonstrated vision and leadership throughout their career and in their current position? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who have shown consistent excellence by adapting to change, motivating people and moving their organization forward. Examples include launching and/or leading an established business, filling senior leadership roles with several organizations and heading an industry or professional association with significant influence.

Entrepreneurial Leader
As an entrepreneur, how has the nominee shown leadership, determination and resourcefulness? This category is open to business founders/owners or executives who don’t shy away from a challenge. Examples include building their organization from the ground up, steering the business through tough times and pivoting to a new market.

Innovator
What innovations or creative approaches has the nominee introduced? How have they broken new ground? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who show exceptional ingenuity. Examples include leading the development of an innovative product or service, tapping a significant new market and introducing new ways of working that improve productivity and/or profitability.

Community Builder
In what ways does the nominee contribute to the community? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who have made a local impact, forged ties with fellow organizations or otherwise brought people together. Examples include partnering and engaging with marginalized groups, founding an industry association and creating a community for people with similar professional interests.

Change Maker
How has the nominee driven positive change, whether it’s in B.C. or beyond? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who strive to build a better world. Examples include spearheading or overseeing a product or service that improves people’s lives, launching a business that creates opportunities for disadvantaged or marginalized groups and helping solve a major social problem.   

Equity and Inclusion Champion
How has the nominee addressed and promoted equity and inclusion in their organization? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who have sought to create a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and heard. Examples include building a robust diversity and inclusion program; helping advance the careers of employees who are Black, Indigenous and people of colour; and establishing clear metrics to show the results of their efforts.

Rising Star
What has the nominee accomplished in their early career that sets them apart and indicates potential for future success? This category is open to business founders/owners and private or public sector employees who show great promise. Examples include launching and leading a successful company, differentiating their product or service in a competitive market and showing leadership qualities beyond their years.