YMCA’s 40th Annual Women of Excellence honourees announced

The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario celebrated locals on Tuesday, honouring eight remarkable women, CTV London's Reta Ismail was there.

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario announced this year’s Women of Excellence honourees inside the StarTech.com Community Centre in London Tuesday morning.

The awards honour remarkable women are from all walks of life, who have unlocked their fullest potential and continue to inspire others to do the same.

“It feels really great, and I think that social justice and being empowered as women is something that is always needed, perhaps more than ever right now, given the geopolitical situation that we’re living in,” said Treena Orchard, Social Justice Honouree.

Celebrating its 40th year, YMCA Women of Excellence Awards is a unique celebration hosted every two years by YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.

“In many cases, women have had to overcome barriers that men have not had to overcome to achieve the things that they have. So, we think it’s important to take stock of that and give credit where it’s due,” explained YMCA of Southwestern Ontario CEO Andrew Lockie.

“I’ve never really thought of myself as being somebody special. And so that recognition says, well, to some people, maybe I am a little bit special,” said Dr. Janet Colleens, Breaking Barriers honouree.

Organizers say funds raised from the awards ceremony will go directly back into the YMCA.

“And all funds go towards supporting kids, families and seniors with access to YMCA programs and services, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Chrisina Harley, YMCA Vice President of Development.

The awards gala will be held on Thursday May 15, tickets can be purchased online at WOE Tickets | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.

2025 YMCA Women of Excellence:

Saidat Abari - Arts, Culture, Education & Training

Lynne Livingstone - Business and Professions

Dr. Janet Collins - Breaking Barriers

Cass Bayley - Entrepreneurs

Dr. Susan McNair - Health, Science & Technology

Dr. Treena Orchard - Social Justice

Dr. Sarah Woodruff - Sports, Fitness & Recreation

Ghallia Hashem - Young Woman of Excellence

For more details on the honourees, go to: Women of Excellence Honourees | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario