2016 Pioneers for Change Award winners announced

TORONTO, May 11, 2016 /CNW/ - Skills for Change is proud to announce the recipients of 2016 Pioneers for Change. Now in its 24^th year, Pioneers for Change Awards support the vision of a diverse and inclusive Canada. At Skills for Change, we champion leadership and innovation among newcomers to Canada. Pioneers for Change awards honour those who have stimulated growth and innovation and also improved opportunities for immigrants. Recipients of the awards are passionate agents of change, driven to build a future where diversity is the cornerstone of what makes Canada great. This year's awards included seven categories, and these seven inspirational individuals have made long-lasting contributions to the community. We are honoured to acknowledge and celebrate their successes.

Excellence in Innovation: Dr. Marat Ressin, Professor and President, York Entrepreneur Development Institute (YEDI)

Excellence in Entrepreneurship: Dr. Steve Gupta, Chairman & CEO, The Gupta Group / President & CEO, Easton's Group of Hotels Inc.

Women in Leadership: Dr. Denise O'Neil Green, Inaugural Assistant Vice-President/Vice-Provost Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Ryerson University

Excellence in Arts: Roger Mooking, Celebrity Chef, Recording Artist and Executive Chef of Twist By Roger Mooking

Youth: Mata Tshiamani, Student, Social Service Work and Immigration program at Seneca

Excellence in Social Impact: Dean Ananya Mukherjee-Reed, Professor, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, York University

Excellence in Community Engagement: Mohamad Fakih, CEO, Paramount Foods

We would like you to join us on June 9, 2016 at St. James Cathedral Centre for an elegant evening out celebrating 24 years of supporting leadership, innovation & diversity at our annual fundraiser and awards gala. All proceeds will fund the Jane-Finch Community Impact Hub Program for Youth.

For more information: pioneersforchange.ca, skillsforchange.org

Tickets for fundraiser: http://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2016-pioneers-for-change-awards-gala-an-evening-amongst-the-stars-tickets-22810598113

Skills for Change is known for pioneering programs that respond to shifting immigration and workplace trends and lead to employment. It provides training opportunities for immigrants and refugees. Skills for Change is funded by the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario and the City of Toronto.

SOURCE Skills for Change

Press Contact: Gill Gulsen Demirel, 416-829-5388