The recipients were:
* Ottawa-based social worker and politician Rasheda Nawaz, who won the ‘Woman of Distinction Award’
* Chayanika Dutta, who received the award for her work in the legal profession
* Shahnaz Perveen, who received the Women Entrepreneur Award
* Rusmita Alam, who received the award for Fashion Design
* Sheira Haq and Dr Shahida Sultana, who received a joint award in the health and wellness category.
The awards ceremony was part of the ‘Colour of Joy’ event organised by non-profit PACE and infotainment channel Radio Metro Mail to celebrate the Bangla New Year 1424, the 150th anniversary of the confederation and the achievements of Bangladeshi-Canadian women in Canada.
The prizes were presented by Western University, Ontario President Dr Amit Chakma.
“Bangladeshi-Canadian Women demonstrated their strengths, commitment and positive influence in many occasions,” he said. “They have shown their resilience against any odds and inspired the community. I appreciate such event, which celebrates Bengali New Year, Canada's 150th anniversary together with struggles and achievements of Bangladeshi Women in Canada”.
The call for open-mindedness was supported by Rasheda Nawaz.
“Tolerance and respect for other cultures go hand in hand,” she said. “We must learn how to respect others in a multicultural environment.”
The venue was adorned with various Pahela Baishakh decorations and showcased a display of Mongol Shobhajatra mask replicas.
A number of prominent community members attended the event, including members of provincial and federal parliaments.
Bangladeshi expatriate artists performed traditional Bangla songs and a variety of traditional cuisine, including various pithas, was available for guests.