Celebrating Nation-Builders: Top 25 Immigrant Awards Open for 2026

TORONTO, ON – January 22, 2026 – As Canada continues to shape its identity on the global stage, a prestigious national program is once again calling for nominations to recognize the individuals who are integral to that story. Canadian Immigrant magazine, with presenting sponsor Western Union, has officially opened the nomination period for the 18th annual Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards of 2026. The awards program stands as a powerful testament to the idea that nation-building and immigration are deeply intertwined, celebrating the profound contributions of newcomers from coast to coast.

For nearly two decades, the awards have provided a national platform to share stories of resilience, innovation, and community service. These are the stories of people who came to Canada seeking freedom and opportunity and, in turn, enriched the country through their diverse efforts in business, arts, philanthropy, and public service.

“As the topic of nationbuilding remains front and centre here in Canada, let’s remember that making Canada stronger starts with people coming together — whether you’re born on these lands or adopted it as your home,” said Sanjay Agnihotri, Publisher of Canadian Immigrant. “Our awards program is about shining a spotlight on immigrant role models who are leaders our communities and strengthening Canada.”

A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration

The Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards have a distinguished history of honoring individuals whose achievements have left an indelible mark on Canadian society. The program's alumni roster is a vivid illustration of the multifaceted nature of immigrant success, moving beyond stereotypes to humanize the immigrant journey. Past winners include prominent figures and unsung heroes alike, creating a cohort of inspiring role models for newcomers and established Canadians.

Among the celebrated recipients are two former Governor Generals, a testament to the award's prestige. In the arts, honorees include Mena Massoud, the star of Disney's live-action Aladdin, and acclaimed ballerina Chan Hon Goh. The world of sports has been represented by figures like Hénoc Muamba, a celebrated player for the Toronto Argonauts. The culinary and business landscapes have been shaped by past winners such as restaurateur and television personality Vikram Vij and billionaire investor Reza Satchu.

However, the awards equally champion those who make their impact away from the national spotlight. Past winners include community activists, dedicated healthcare professionals, and innovative entrepreneurs like Tareq Hadhad, the founder of Peace by Chocolate, whose company not only creates artisanal goods but also funds peace-building initiatives. By showcasing such a wide array of talent, the program counters one-dimensional narratives and highlights that contributions come in many forms—from creating jobs and cultural landmarks to fostering community well-being and mentoring the next generation.

The Business of Belonging

The continued success of the awards is supported by a significant corporate partnership. For the 18th year, Western Union returns as the presenting sponsor, a role that reflects a deep strategic alignment with the immigrant community. For a global leader in cross-border money movement, this sponsorship is more than corporate philanthropy; it is a direct investment in a core customer demographic.

Western Union's business model is intrinsically linked to the global diaspora, providing a financial lifeline for millions of immigrants who support families back home and build new lives in countries like Canada. By backing a program that celebrates immigrant success, the company reinforces its brand identity as a partner in the immigrant journey. This engagement helps position Western Union not merely as a financial service provider but as an institution that understands and values the aspirations and achievements of newcomers.

This long-term commitment underscores a broader trend of corporate social responsibility that is both authentic and strategic. In a competitive market, building trust and loyalty within key communities is paramount. Supporting the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards allows the company to participate in a positive, nation-building narrative, celebrating the very customers who are vital to its business while fostering goodwill and brand recognition across Canada's diverse population.

Recognizing a Nation-Builder

The process of selecting the Top 25 honorees is a collaborative effort designed to be both rigorous and inclusive, combining expert judgment with public participation. The call for nominations is open to all Canadians, who are encouraged to put forward an immigrant they believe has made a significant positive impact.

To be eligible, a nominee must have immigrated to Canada, be at least 15 years old, and hold landed immigrant (permanent resident) or citizen status. The key criterion is their contribution to the success and uplifting of the country, whether through professional achievements or personal dedication to community service. Nominations can be submitted online at www.canadianimmigrant.ca/top25 until the deadline of March 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Following the nomination period, a distinguished panel of judges, itself composed of past award winners, will review the submissions and select a shortlist of 75 finalists. This list will be announced in April, at which point the public will be invited to vote for the nominees who inspire them most. The final 25 winners are determined by a combination of judges' scores and the results of this nationwide online vote.

In addition to the main honor, the program features several specialized awards to recognize specific areas of achievement. For the 12th year, the Entrepreneur Award will be presented to one of the Top 25 winners for their outstanding business acumen. The Youth Award, now in its 10th year, will recognize a winner between the ages of 15 and 30 who demonstrates exceptional potential. Finally, the Leadership Award, launched in 2025, celebrates a professional among the Top 25 who exemplifies outstanding leadership and impact. The 25 winners will be announced in August 2026, adding a new chapter to the ongoing story of immigrant contribution in Canada.