“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” –Margaret Thatcher
A Filipino-Canadian community leader based in Surrey, British Columbia in Canada became the first Filipino to become a finalist in the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards.
Narima Dela Cruz, founding director and president of the Surrey Philippine Independence Day Society (SPIDS), has been nominated for the Community Champion category.
A successful realtor and married to Engr. Joel Dela Cruz, Narima was also a finalist in the 2012 Top 25 Canadian Immigrants.
The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards is recognized all over Canada.
It honors extraordinary women leaders, while raising much-needed funds for YWCA programs and services that improve the lives of thousands of people each year across Metro Vancouver.
The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards also honors businesses and organizations that support the wellness and diverse needs of their employees.
Change
In Dela Cruz’s category, a nominee should have personally identified a local community need or issue and initiated meaningful change, dedicating her own time and resources to champion her cause.
“What started as a volunteer crusade could now be a full-time or paid role for this leader,” stated the Distinction Awards. “She has made a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver while being recognized as a source of strength and heart in her community and is able to harness the time, talent and capacity of others. She may be a founding member, administrator, board member or other community minded leader.”
To be held on June 7, 2018 at the JW Marriott parc Vancouver, the 2018 YWCA Metro Vancouver women of Distinction Awards have the following categories: Arts, Culture & Design; Business & the Professions; Community Champion; Education, Training & Development; Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
Awards will also be given in the following categories: Environmental Sustainability; Health & Wellness; Public Service; Research & the Sciences; Young Woman of Distinction; Outstanding Workplace; and Connecting the Community.
SPIDS, a leading organization in Vancouver, will celebrate its 10th year anniversary on June 10 or three days after the awarding.