Nominations now open for the 2017 Immigrants of Distinction Awards

Recipients of the 2016 Immigrants of Distinction Awards (IDA). (Contributed photo)

Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC) is seeking nominations for the 21st Annual Immigrants of Distinction Awards (IDA). Do you know an immigrant who has made amazing contributions to Calgary’s community in the areas of arts and culture, professional achievement, entrepreneurship and innovation, or community service? What about an organization with a record of embracing diversity, or an immigrant or refugee youth whose accomplishments truly make him or her shine?

Nominations for IDA 2017 are officially open and will be accepted until 11:59pm on Wednesday, November 30, 2016.

“Global Talent – Canada’s Advantage” is the chosen theme for the 21st IDA Gala, which focuses on how far we have come as a diverse Calgary community with the many achievements of newcomers in their professional and business endeavors, as well as recognizes the new and innovative ideas immigrants bring to the Calgary community.

Through their skills, passion and vision; the achievements of newcomers have enhanced the cultural, social and economic richness of Calgary allowing us to truly appreciate the global talent that we have in our community. Immigrant Services Calgary is eager to celebrate the accomplishments that will emerge from the nominations for the 2017 Immigrants of Distinction Awards.

ISC is currently accepting nominations in the following categories:

*Achievement Under 35

*Arts and Culture

*Community Service

*Entrepreneurship and Innovation

*Lifetime Achievement

*Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

*Organizational Diversity

*Youth Scholarships

Individuals and organizations who are nominated must reside in Calgary or the surrounding area. All entries will be reviewed by an external anonymous selection committee comprised of community members. Award recipients will be announced at the 21st Annual IDA Gala on March 10, 2017 at the Westin Calgary. Candidates must be nominated by someone other than themselves with the exception of the Youth Scholarship Category.

Nominations can be made by visiting IDA website at: www.immigrantsofdistinction.com.