Heritage Park has officially opened the nomination period for the 2026 Women Making History Awards, calling upon Albertans to put forward inspiring women who are making significant impacts across the province. This annual celebration honors female leaders who contribute to their communities, industries, and fields of expertise, while also raising funds to support community access to Heritage Park for underserved groups.
Celebrating Leadership and Legacy
Now entering its fourth year, the awards ceremony serves as both a recognition event and a fundraiser aimed at promoting equitable access to Heritage Park. Laurie Shinkaruk, Heritage Park’s chief development officer, emphasized the dual purpose of the initiative. "It’s about honoring the women whose leadership has been shaping our communities today, while we’re investing in the next generation who are going to lead tomorrow," Shinkaruk stated. "Hosting this event at Heritage Park reminds us that history plays a critical role in women’s success – that we actually stand on the shoulders of those who’ve come before us and paved the way."
New Sponsorship Category Introduced
This year, Heritage Park has introduced a new "LeadHERship" sponsorship category, allowing corporations to purchase a table and host emerging leaders during the award lunch. Shinkaruk explained that this initiative is designed to provide young women with valuable opportunities to connect with established leaders across various industries and career paths, fostering mentorship and networking.
Award Categories and Criteria
Recipients of the Women Making History Awards are recognized across four distinct categories, each highlighting different aspects of leadership and contribution:
- Community Builder Award: This award honors women who uplift Alberta communities through non-profits, social services, and other initiatives. It aims to recognize leaders who respond to community needs, foster collaboration, and create inclusive spaces where individuals and families can thrive.
- Entrepreneurial & Innovator Award: Recognizing women making strides in business, research, and innovation, this award celebrates those who transform ideas into impact, contribute to economic growth, and advance creative or technological solutions across the province.
- Vera Burns Award: Named after Heritage Park’s first curator and a pioneering leader in Alberta’s history, this award honors women who exemplify resilience, leadership, and a pioneering spirit in their field. It acknowledges those who have broken barriers, created lasting change, and paved the way for future generations.
- History Maker in the Making Award: This award celebrates an emerging leader making strides in her community and demonstrating the potential to shape Alberta’s future. It recognizes up-and-coming changemakers, such as young professionals, students, or early-career leaders, who are making a difference in their community.
Past Honorees and Nomination Details
Past recipients of the Women Making History Awards have included notable figures such as Sharon Carry, former president of Bow Valley College, and Christine McIver, founder of the Kids Cancer Care Foundation. These honorees exemplify the caliber of leadership and impact that the awards seek to celebrate.
Nominations for the 2026 awards are now open and will close on March 15. The awards lunch is scheduled to take place on June 5. For more information about the awards or to submit a nomination, individuals are encouraged to visit Heritage Park’s official website.
This initiative not only highlights the achievements of women across Alberta but also reinforces Heritage Park’s commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting future leaders through meaningful recognition and fundraising efforts.
