2024 Women in Business Awards

Join us on November 21 as we announce the recipients of this year's Women in Business Awards. Make it a celebration for everyone - bring your team, clients, and suppliers to the event! 

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The Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates women who have excelled in their business and community over the course of their career.

2024 Recipient: Michele O'Keefe

Michele O'Keefe is the Director of Athletics and Student Engagement at Niagara College and a highly respected figure in the world of sports. Formerly the CEO and president of Canada Basketball, she joined Niagara College in 2018, the same year she received the prestigious Leadership in Sport Award at the Canadian Sport Awards. Michele's leadership and dedication to empowering athletes, particularly women, have garnered her several accolades, including the CICan Leadership Excellence Award in 2024. She is known for her role in fostering inclusive, empowering environments for students and staff alike. A visionary leader, Michele has also served on the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) boards and chaired the Ontario Sport Network. Her achievements extend to community initiatives like the Girls Sport Day in Welland, which inspires young girls to engage in sports. Michele's contributions continue to shape sports policy locally and internationally, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and empowerment.

The Ruth Unrau Legacy Award is given in the name of Women in Niagara founder Ruth Unrau to a woman who shares her spirit and dedication to advocacy for women in business. The recipient will have a reputation as an advocate and champion for women in commerce and leadership roles, and may be a campaigner, a mentor, or one who undertakes other significant work that advances the cause and the interests of female entrepreneurship.

2024 Recipient: Stephanie Thompson

As an Engineering Manager, Stephanie puts her heart into the technical world of engineering, empowering women and students to break down technology barriers and explore new possibilities. As a Professional Engineer of Ontario, she excels in Project Management for and Manufacturing Engineering, committed to guiding others on their path to success and innovation.

11:00am – 11:30am Registration & Reception
12:00pm – 12:20pm Welcome Messages
12:20pm – 01:00pm Lunch
01:00pm – 03:00pm Awards Presentation

Awards presentations will include a keynote from Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Michelle O'Keefe and RULA award recipient Stephanie Thompson.