(L-R) Kim Bartley, Jayme Gabriel-Chan, Flourish Aiwize and Marta Kasha, nominees for the 2026 YWCA Women of Distinction awards (Image Credit: YWCA)

By Alyssa Conti

Award Gala

Fraser Valley women nominated for awards honouring contributions to community strength

Mar 7, 2026 | 4:37 PM

CHILLIWACK — Four women are being recognized for their contributions to leading community initiatives in the Fraser Valley, with new nominations for a fundraising award ceremony.

The YWCA is honouring 94 nominees from the Lower Mainland across 12 categories with this year’s Women of Distinction Awards.

Chilliwack resident Oluchi Adesuwa Flourish Aiwize, former acting vice-president of Junior Black Achievement Awards Youth Council, planned her school’s first Black History Month programming on her own after securing a grant and now joins others for a Young Woman of Distinction award.

ALANO Club of Vancouver Board President Kim Bartley of Abbotsford is also eyeing a Non-Profit Award for leading community-based recovery services that support thousands each year through major accessibility renovations that accommodate individuals of all genders and backgrounds.

Lastly, Langley’s Jayme Gabriel-Chan with the Law Foundation of BC, Mriya Ukrainian Dance founder Marta Kasha and White Canvas Design Agency have each been selected for nominations in the Reconciliation, Arts, Culture & Design and Outstanding Workplace awards, respectively.

Award Gala

Fraser Valley women nominated for awards honouring contributions to community strength

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“The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose outstanding contributions foster the well-being, strength and future of the Lower Mainland,” said the YWCA.

“As a signature fundraising event, the awards evening highlights nominees’ achievements, while also bringing together community leaders and fellow advocates with a shared vision of advancing gender equity.”

The public can vote for eligible recipients online through the YWCA website until April 1.

Winners will be announced on May 7 at the 2026 Women of Distinction Awards Gala at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver.