Award Categories

Trailblazer in Inclusive Employment

Honors an employer who:

• Breaks new ground in hiring inclusively by using innovative, person-centred approaches
• Embeds inclusivity into recruitment, onboarding, and day-to-day practices
• Builds lasting, respectful relationships with employees with disabilities
• Demonstrates sustained commitment over time to inclusive hiring
• Pioneers partnerships with schools, training programs, or community organizations to open pathways into their workforce for underrepresented groups

Innovation in Workplace Inclusion

Recognizes an employer who:

• Designs or modifies roles to highlight the strengths of each individual
• Shows adaptability with hours, locations, responsibilities, or technology
• Invests in physical or procedural accommodations to enable employee success
• Encourages feedback and continuous improvement in workplace accessibility

Champion for Change

Celebrates an employer or individual who:

• Uses their platform to inspire inclusive hiring beyond their own organization
• Shares their knowledge, stories, and successes publicly or with peers
• Offers mentorship or support to others beginning their inclusive journey
• Advocates for equitable workplace practices in the broader community
• Leads or participates in regional or sector-wide initiatives that drive policy, awareness, or systemic change in employment accessibility
• Uses media, events, or social platforms to amplify the voices of employees with disabilities

Rising Star in Inclusive Employment

Honors a new or growing inclusive employer who:

• Has taken meaningful steps toward inclusive hiring within the past year
• Works in partnership with local employment agencies or supports
• Demonstrates an eagerness to grow, learn, and improve inclusive practices
• Implements inclusive hiring as a core business value rather than a temporary initiative
• Builds a welcoming team culture for all

 Fraser Valley East Inclusive Employer of the Year

Selected from among all nominees, this award recognizes an employer who:

• Embodies inclusive values across hiring, support, culture, and leadership
• Demonstrates excellence in promoting equity and diversity at all levels
• Offers mentorship and inclusive leadership to others in the region
• Demonstrates measurable impact through retention rates, advancement opportunities, and employee satisfaction among those hired through inclusive practices
• Shares resources, templates, or training materials openly with other employers in the region to lift the standard of inclusion
• Has become a model for inclusive employment in the Fraser Valley East region