I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in the 5th Annual Ward 1 Community Excellence Awards.
A heartfelt thank you to those who took the time to nominate outstanding individuals and to those who graciously accepted their nominations.
The quality of the submissions and the nominees this year is a true testament to the remarkable spirit and excellence of our Ward 1 residents and businesses.
Here are all the 2024 winners:
New Business Award
The recipient of this award has been in business for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 5 years. This award recognizes outstanding achievement as a new business in some or all of the following:
- research & development
- company growth
- products & services
- market development
- sales & marketing
- community service
Winner: ThriveAbility Community Connections
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
This award recognizes the endeavors of an exceptional individual or company who:
- creates exceptional products and services
- keep our local economies moving forward
- embodies the spirit of community
- values and demonstrates innovation
Winner: Quiet Bodies
Excellence in Customer Service Award
This award recognizes a business for:
- consistently exceeding customer or guest expectations
- exceptional service standards in our community
Winner: Blueheel Dance Studio
Automotive Services Excellence Award
This award honours an Automotive Services establishment with:
- outstanding service
- consistent high standards and integrity
- friendly and efficient staff interactions.
Winner: Carmen’s Auto Service
Pet Groomer Excellence Award
The Pet Groomer Excellence Award honours one who demonstrates:
- exceptional grooming techniques that prioritize both the comfort and style of pets
- consistent high praise and feedback from pet owners
- a strong commitment to animal welfare
Winner: Dogtopia of Applewood
Barber/Hair Stylist Excellence Award
This category is new in 2024 and was created to honour a Stylist or Barber who demonstrates some or all of the following:
- outstanding skill and technique
- customer satisfaction
- innovative and trendsetting
Winner: Mila Boullion
Best Patio Dining Experience Award
The best patio dining experience award is presented to a restaurant that has created a patio that:
- sets high standards for food quality
- provides guests with excellent customer service
- has an atmosphere that enhances the dining experience
Winner: Texas Longhorn
Restaurant of the Year Award
This award is presented to a restaurant that provides:
- a most enjoyable overall guest experience
- high standards for food quality
- excellent customer service that enhances the dining experience
Winner: Al Mustafa Catering
Artist of The Year Award – Live Music Performance
The Ward 1 Artist of the Year – Live Music Performance award recognizes the musician or musical group that consistently delivers:
- exceptional live performances
- pieces that captivate audiences with their talent
- artistic expression and creativity
Winner: Tom Barlow
Artist of The Year Award – Visual Artist
The Ward 1 Artist of the Year – Visual Artist award recognizes outstanding accomplishments and contributions within the field of visual arts. This category celebrates artists who:
- possess exceptional creativity, skill, and innovation
- have made an impact on the art scene locally
Winner: Sidney Gendron
Crossing Guard Excellence Award DISCLAIMER: this is a paid City of Mississauga Position
This award was created to recognize and honour an outstanding crossing guard who ensures the safety of children and pedestrians by:
- demonstrating exceptional dedication and reliability
- showing exemplary commitment to pedestrian safety
- exhibiting a friendly and positive attitude toward the community
Winner: Peter Duncan
Good Neighbour Award
This award recognizes outstanding contributions by an individual who positively influences their local community with:
- acts of kindness, and generosity
- community involvement and volunteerism
- assistance to neighbours in need
Winner: Tonya Elmazi
Special Honourary Mention: Dudley Briggs
Environmental Stewardship Award
Whether helping to protect our climate, reduce waste, support local food or enhance our natural spaces, this individual is recognized as an environmental leader who has made significant contributions to improving our environment by:
- protecting the climate and environment
- supporting local sustainable food sources
- enhancing natural spaces
- advocacy and education
- community engagement
Winner: Cloverleaf Garden Club