Events /

Honoring Immigrant Excellence: Pioneers for Change Gala 2025

October 23, 2025

About the Gala

The Pioneers for Change initiative, led by Skills for Change (SfC), is an annual event that celebrates and recognizes the contributions of exceptional immigrants, refugees, and underrepresented individuals who have made a significant impact on Canadian society. Through this initiative, Skills for Change showcases inspiring leaders across various fields who have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and leadership while fostering positive change in their communities. 

Since its inception in 1993, Pioneers for Change has highlighted and honored outstanding individuals whose work has influenced sectors such as business, social services, education, health, arts, public policy, and advocacy. The program underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion while promoting the successes and contributions of newcomers and underrepresented groups in Canada.

Past Events Gallery

Nominations Are Open!

We’re excited to open nominations for the 2025 Pioneers for Change Awards, a signature part of the Gala that celebrates immigrants and immigrant-led organizations who are creating lasting change in Canada and beyond. 

This year’s categories celebrate the diverse impact of immigrants across entrepreneurship, climate leadership, technology, social services, creative arts, advocacy, and beyond. 

Do you know someone whose story deserves to be recognized? 

We’re calling on community members, organizations, and changemakers to nominate individuals and groups whose work inspires, uplifts, and transforms.

Who is eligible?

All nominees must be immigrants to Canada (individuals) or immigrant-led/immigrant-serving organizations or companies.

Award Catergories

The 2025 Award Categories are:

  1. Entrepreneurship Award 

  2. Youth Sustainability (Climate Action) Leader 

  3. Social Services Leader (Individual or Organization) 

  4. Immigration Advocate Award 

  5. Skills for Change Alumni Award 

  6. Training Provider Award 

  7. Leader in the Skilled Trades 

  8. Local Community Trailblazer 

Nominations will open soon!

Questions? Contact Us.

events@skillsforchange.org