Nominations are in for KW’s Women of the Year awards
Posted Apr 16, 2026 04:00:57 PM.
Last Updated Apr 17, 2026 11:25:13 AM.
For decades, Waterloo Region has been celebrating women moving the needle and who are inspiring in the diverse communities that make up the municipality.
This year’s K-W Oktoberfest BMO Financial Group Women of the Year Award nominations are in, and the list hosts some exceptional community builders.
Since 1975, K-W Oktoberfest has created the award ceremony to honour the “extraordinary” women of the region. Last year, there was a record number of nominations.
“As we celebrate our 51st Women of the Year ceremony, we continue to be inspired by the remarkable calibre of nominees,” Tracy Van Kalsbeek, K-W Oktoberfest’s Executive Director, said. “These women reflect the depth of leadership, passion and impact found throughout our community.”
There are awards in 12 categories, and dozens of people from the region are among the honourees, including none other than 570 NewsRadio’s morning anchor, Christine Clark.
She has been nominated for a new accreditation this year, the Vanguard Under 40 Award, which is for women who demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation while early in their professional careers.
Other awards include women recognized in arts and culture, community services, educator, entrepreneur, health and wellness, skilled trades and young adults ages 14 to 23.
“Recognizing, celebrating and amplifying women’s achievements remains essential to advancing equality and this event continues to embody that commitment,” Van Kalsbeek said.
The annual ceremony is set to take place on May 21. It will be hosted by Robin & PJ from COUNTRY 106.7.
Rogers is the parent company of 570 NewsRadio and CityNews Kitchener.
