Women and allies across Canada are invited to celebrate leadership, diversity, and opportunity at the 35th annual WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA). Building on the theme of International Women’s Day 2026, Give to Gain, the awards honour women, men, and organizations that actively champion women’s advancement in the workplace.
This prestigious gala is a must-attend event for Canada’s vibrant business sectors, bringing together the country’s most influential leaders and rising stars to recognize outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment and inclusion in the communications and technology industries.
Event Details
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Date: Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
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Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
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Location: Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J 1E4
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Tickets & Tables:Here
- Sponsorship Packages: Here
About the Leadership Excellence Awards
The WCT Leadership Excellence Awards (LEA) celebrate individuals, teams, and organizations who champion diversity, opportunity, and inclusion for women in Canada’s communications and technology sectors. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the awards, with eight prestigious categories recognizing exceptional leadership.
Nomination deadline: February 6, 2026
Award Categories
1. Woman of the Year
The highest individual honour, celebrating extraordinary leaders who have materially advanced the roles and influence of women in the digital economy.
2. ERG of the Year
Recognizes Employee Resource Groups that demonstrate exceptional commitment to women’s advancement, using best practices to foster inclusion and measurable workplace results.
3. Ally of the Year
Honours men who have made significant contributions as mentors, sponsors, or advocates, empowering women within organizations and across the economy.
4. Innovator of the Year
New for the 35th anniversary, this award celebrates women leading in disruptive or emerging technologies, turning bold ideas into transformative solutions.
5. Champion of the Year
Exclusive to WCT sponsoring partner leaders, this award recognises those championing WCT’s cause and advancing women within their organizations.
6. Mentor of the Year
Honours exceptional mentors from WCT programs — including Pods and career accelerators — who guide and develop women leaders through insight, encouragement, and dedication.
7. Rising Star of the Year
Open to WCT program alumni, this award celebrates emerging leaders making a meaningful impact early in their careers and shaping the future of leadership in Canada’s digital economy.
8. Regional Leader of the Year
Recognizes outstanding volunteer leaders across WCT chapters in Canada whose advocacy, mentorship, and dedication strengthen local networks and empower women in the digital economy.
Why Attend
The WCT Awards Gala is not just a celebration; it is a networking and learning opportunity. Attendees will connect with influential leaders, rising talent, and organizations dedicated to inclusion, equity, and innovation.
Whether you’re nominating, attending, or sponsoring, the event is a chance to:
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Celebrate achievements in leadership and diversity
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Recognize role models shaping Canada’s digital economy
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Build connections with the country’s top business and tech leaders
How to Participate
Celebrate the women, allies, and organizations who give to gain in leadership. Together, we can continue to create a future where women thrive across Canada’s technology and communications sectors.
General enquiries: info@wct-fct.com
