OWIT-Toronto - Awards Program

Background	A women's trade advocate, JoAnna Townsend passed away in January 2004 after a courageous battle with cancer. In her prior role with the Department of Foreign Affairs & International Trade, she was instrumental in making women entrepreneurs a focus within the department and in introducing initiatives to encourage more Canadian women to export. In particular, as Chair of the Trade Research Coalition, JoAnna spearheaded the groundbreaking Beyond Borders Report - the first research of its kind in the world focusing on women and our role in international trade. Whether supporting trade missions for women or simply being available to give advice, JoAnna had an unwavering commitment to furthering the interests of women entrepreneurs. This award honours JoAnna's memory and contributions to assist women exporters.
Objective	The award recognizes an outstanding woman in Ontario who, through her business and personal networks, creates opportunities to actively support Canadian women entrepreneurs, to succeed in international business.
Eligible Nominees	Nominees for this award may participate on for-profit and non-profit boards, government committees and/or industry associations. Nominees are women in business, government or organizations who act as a role model and mentor for women entrepreneurs and provide support to women in international business.
Past Award Winners	2010: Candice Rice 2009: Kathleen Holland 2008: Mary Anderson 2007: Betty Wood 2006: The Hon. Sarmite D. Bulte 2005: Susan Langdon 2004: Maxine Westaway