7 MORE WOMEN OF DISTINCTION WHO ARE MAKING MUSKOKA A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK, SAYS YWCA AWARDS COMMITTEE

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

MUSKOKA — There could have been many more.

But the YWCA Muskoka is pleased to announce this year’s seven recipients of the 2026 Women of Distinction Awards.

A total of 31 women were nominated by community members for their contributions and accomplishments to Muskoka in the 20th awards.

The award recipients were picked by an independent selection panel.

The awards will be formally presented at the Gala on April 2, 2026 at Deerhurst Resort. Attendees will enjoy dinner, a silent auction, mingling and the awards presentation. Gala Tickets are available now at ywcamuskoka.com for $175 per person ($160 for YWCA Members). Visit www.ywcamuskoka.com/women-of-distinction

Here are those seven amazing women in our communities who make life better in all sorts of fields public and private, says the YWCA.

2026 Women of Distinction Recipients:

• 1. Isabella Bullock, Young Woman of Distinction

Award Description: This young woman, 30 years of age or under, is making significant contributions to her school, community, and/or work place. She demonstrates innovation, leadership, and inspires others to follow her example. This Award is Sponsored by TD Bank Group.

• 2. Aimee Bulloch-Moore, Arts, Culture and Creativity

Award Description: This woman enriches lives through her contributions to the arts and cultural activities of Muskoka. She encourages creative, cultural and artistic expression and promotes the value of culture and the arts as integral to the community. This Award is Sponsored by Hannah Lin in memory of Heather and Yang Tso Lin.

• 3.  Jody North, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Award Description: This woman achieves success in entrepreneurial endeavours, business, trades, and/or the professions in private, public, or not-for-profit organizations. The contributions she makes in her field provide significant and lasting benefit to her community. This Award is sponsored by Mawer Investment Management.

• 4. Joyce Jonathan Crone, Transforming Community

Award Description: This woman is helping to build a strong community by making changes and advocating for a better quality of life. She strives to increase awareness and promote improvements in areas such as gender equality, social justice and peace, and/or the environment. She is an inspiration to others. This Award is Sponsored by Co-operators.

• 5. Sarah Jean Smith, Health, Sports, and Wellness

Award Description: This woman directs her energies to the well-being of people in her life and/or the Muskoka community. She promotes healthy lifestyles through her excellent leadership in fields relating to physical, spiritual, emotional, and/or social well-being.

• 6. Michelle Battaglia, Skilled Trades

Award Description: This award recognizes a woman who is excelling in the skilled trades— whose craftsmanship, dedication, and expertise set a high standard in her field. With skill and integrity, she contributes meaningfully and inspires others to pursue pathways in the trades. This Award is Sponsored by Bespoke Property Management.

• 7. Catherine Cole, Lifetime Achievement

Award Description: This woman is 55 years of age or more has made a significant difference in the quality of life in her community. She responds to individual and societal needs with dedication, compassion, and courage. This Award is Sponsored by Collective Good Consulting.

Proceeds from YWCA Muskoka’s Women of Distinction Gala support the charity’s educational programs and social services for women of all ages, youth and community members throughout Muskoka. Silent auction donations are appreciated and Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact office@ywcamuskoka.com or call 705-645-9827.

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