2026 Women of Distinction Awards
Celebrating the Remarkable Women in Cambridge
Nominate a Woman Who Inspires: Women of Distinction Nominations Are Open!
Deadline for submissions: March 27, 2026
Every community has change makers — women who inspire, uplift, and lead with purpose. They may be trailblazers in business, tireless volunteers, dedicated educators, or fearless advocates making Cambridge a better place. Now is your chance to celebrate them.
The YWCA Cambridge Women of Distinction Awards (WOD) return for their 32nd year, honouring the multifaceted contributions of women who are shaping our city’s future. These awards recognize folks whose leadership, courage, and commitment leave a lasting impact and we can’t help but stand up and take notice.
In 2026, we continue to celebrate nominees’ unique journeys and impacts, rather than placing their diverse experiences into categories. Four recipients will be honoured with Women of Distinction Awards, along with three special distinctions:
Young Trailblazer Award (30 and under)
Lifetime Achievement Award (55 plus)
President’s Award
But we can’t do this without you. We need your nominations.
Nominate a Woman of Distinction Today
Why Nominate?
It’s not every day we pause to celebrate those who go above and beyond. By nominating someone, you:
- Acknowledge and celebrate their impact and dedication
- Inspire others by sharing their stories
- Strengthen our community by elevating the voices of women who make a difference
Whether they’re making waves in their industry, mentoring the next generation, championing social change, or showing up every day to make a difference, they deserve recognition.
Who Can Nominate?
Anyone.
Co‑workers, friends, family members, mentees, neighbours — your perspective matters. If you know a woman whose passion and leadership deserve the spotlight, take a few minutes to nominate her today.
How Easy Is It to Nominate?
We’ve made the process simple and seamless:
- Visit the official nomination page: Submit a Nomination Here
- Share a few details about your nominee and why she inspires you
- Submit your nomination before March 27, 2026
That’s it, a few minutes of your time can shine a light on someone who truly deserves it.
Don’t wait. Help us celebrate the remarkable women who make Cambridge stronger.
Link to recap video on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLhvgUWAmaU/
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YWCA WOD 2023 web-0099 (1)
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The Latest News
Seven Women Named 2025 YWCA Women of Distinction Award Recipients
Nominees for the 2025 YWCA Cambridge Women of Distinction Awards Announced
Celebrating 30 Years of Women of Distinction: A Night to Remember
YWCA Cambridge Names Six Recipients of the 2024 Women of Distinction Awards
Meet the 2024 Women of Distinction Award Nominees
30 Years of Women of Distinction Awards: Helen Turner-Fischer, 2005
30 Years of Women of Distinction Awards: Colleen Smith, 2000
30 Years of Women of Distinction Awards: Jill Summerhayes (1994)
30 Years of Women of Distinction Awards: Ilidia Sa Melo (2015)
Nominations Open for 30th Anniversary Women of Distinction Awards
Every year, the most recent Women of Distinction award recipients join an exclusive community that celebrates together, supports each other, and contributes to social change.
As a member of the Circle of Distinction, you receive invitations to special networking and social events, plus early access to register for YWCA Cambridge community events!
Partnership Opportunities
Your brand can help recognize women’s achievements and support our community by joining in the celebration. What better way to create the change you want to see in the world?
Partnering with us brings your organization into the spotlight, offering a unique opportunity to connect with leaders and changemakers. But more than anything, your support fuels our shared mission for gender equity.
At this event, you can demonstrate your brand’s belief in the power of every woman, girl, and gender-diverse individual to make a mark on the world. This is your invitation to celebrate their stories with us.
From hosting and hospitality packages to category sponsorship, we will work with you to create a partnership that meets your goals.
