Female leaders from across the region were celebrated today at the Southeast Women of Distinction Awards in Estevan, recognizing exceptional achievements and contributions in community service, innovation, leadership and inclusion.
This year’s annual event featured a mix of urban and rural nominees from throughout southeast Saskatchewan. For the first time, the nominations committee made the decision to limit the number of finalists to keep categories manageable.
“Several individuals who were nominated have agreed to let their names stand in future years,” said Nomination Chair Tania Andrist during the ceremony.
To ensure impartiality, the selection process was handed over to an external panel. “Once our final nominations were determined, we took all the packages and turned them into digital portfolios,” Andrist explained. “These portfolios were sent to another women’s organization in a different city… Our committee did not see the packages, and that committee has no influence on the outcome.”
She emphasized the integrity of the process, noting, “There is no one else in the room that knows whose names are appearing on those trophies today. We are very grateful for their unbiased adjudication.”
This year’s winners are:
Innovative Leadership Award: Cea Anna Kerr
Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award: Crystal Ross
Outstanding Contribution to the Workplace: Angela Smeltzer
Young Visionary: Kerison Burnett
Equity and Inclusion Award: Desiree DeSilva
2025 Trailblazer Inductee: Sisters of St. Joseph’s Hospital
