2014 RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards opens call for nominations

rbc awardsFor the sixth year, Canadian Immigrant magazine and title sponsor RBC will recognize and celebrate the stories and achievements of outstanding Canadian immigrants who inspire newcomers and Canadians alike. Associate sponsor Chevrolet is also back on board for the second year.

“Who inspires you? That’s the question we’re asking,” said Margaret Jetelina, editor of Canadian Immigrant. “We want to share the stories of immigrants from every corner of the country who have chosen Canada as their home and made it better for being here. We need your help in uncovering these inspiring people.”

Some of the winners from previous years include dancer/choreographer Wen Wei Wang, entrepreneur and community leader Zahra Al-Harazi, NBA superstar Steve Nash, former Governor General of Canada Adrienne Clarkson
and many more, including entrepreneurs, artists and community volunteers.

This national people’s choice award is unique in that it allows Canadians to first nominate and then vote directly for individuals who have made a difference since their arrival in Canada. More than 31,000 votes from across Canada were cast in the 2013 awards program.

“Nominating someone as a top Canadian immigrant provides people with an opportunity to recognize role models who have made a difference in, or who have made a significant contribution to this country,” said Christine Shisler, Director, Multicultural Markets, RBC. “We have seen some incredible past winners who have made significant contributions, and we can’t wait to hear this year’s motivating and inspiring stories.”

A nominee can be someone who has moved to Canada and, since immigrating, has contributed to the diversity and success of this country and/or its people.

Achievements can be either professional or personal. Nominees must hold landed immigrant (Permanent Resident) or citizen status in Canada, and must reside in Canada.

“The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards recognize people who have shared their passions for Canada as they earned significant achievements and realized their dreams,” said John Roth, Vice President for Chevrolet in Canada. “The Chevrolet Ingenuity Award will further recognize the efforts of a truly inspirational individual.”

Nominations can be made by visiting canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 until February 27, 2014, 11:59 pm EST. A distinguished panel of judges will review all nominees and present a list of 75 finalists who will be profiled online in March, after which all Canadians can vote for their favourite nominees.

The 25 winners will be announced in June 2014, and will be recognized in the July print edition of Canadian Immigrant magazine and online at canadianimmigrant.ca. Winners will also receive a commemorative plaque and $500 towards a charity of their choice provided by RBC. Chevrolet will once again be selecting one winner for its special recognition: the Chevrolet Ingenuity Award.