Strong Women Don’t Just Inspire You—They Shape How You Show Up in the World

By Tiawna LaMontagne  | 2026 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards 

When I stood on stage on March 28, 2026, to accept the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Enriching Education category, I had a speech prepared. But there was so much more I wanted to say than could fit into a few short minutes.

So this is what I didn’t get the chance to say.

First, what an incredible honour.

I was nominated by one of my closest friends, Natasha, whom I have known for more than 20 years. To be nominated once was something I never expected. To be nominated two years in a row? I still can’t quite believe it.

There are so many inspiring women in this province and in this city. The women named in my category were remarkable, and to be recognized alongside the other 45 finalists was truly overwhelming in the best possible way.

I want to start by thanking the YWCA for everything they do—not only in our community, but in the way they celebrate and honour women. From the finalist reception luncheon, to the photoshoots and videos, to the awards gala itself, every detail was so thoughtful. The amount of hard work, planning, and dedication that goes into this event does not go unnoticed.

The YWCA does so many incredible things for our community, but they also have a beautiful way of making people feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Thank you for recognizing all 46 finalists and for creating a space that reminds us just how much good is happening in our city.

As honoured as I am to receive this award, I know that I did not get here alone.

I have had the unique privilege of being surrounded by fierce, strong, independent women my entire life. Women who have shaped the person I am today, and the woman who started this small local business with the goal of keeping our community safe, reducing the stigma around mental health, and keeping my late husband Joel’s memory alive.

I was raised by my mom and my aunt—my godmother—who taught me the value of hard work, independence, and, to put it bluntly, to never take shit from anyone. They taught me that if you want something, you work for it. They taught me that you work hard so you can play hard, and that resilience is built in the moments when you keep going, even when things feel impossible.

My grandmother was one of the most beautiful women I have ever known. She taught me to try everything once. To say yes to opportunities. To not be afraid of new experiences. To trust myself.

And then there are my closest friends. The women I have known for more than 20 years. The women I call my anchors.

These women have seen me at my very best and my absolute worst. They have stood beside me through every season of life. Through grief, heartbreak, laughter, growth, success, and everything in between. At no point has there ever been a question that we would be there for each other. I would not be here today without these phenomenal women.

I also would not have had the opportunity to build this business or receive this award without my family—especially Rob and Boogie.

Rob has supported my dream of starting my own business from day one. He has believed in me, encouraged me, and supported me through every idea, every challenge, and every long day.

And then there is Boogie.

The best bulldog in the world. The cutest mascot of all time.

She has been my self-care, my sounding board, and my coworker from day one. On the good days and the bad days, she is always there. There is something incredibly comforting about a bulldog who doesn’t care how hard your day was, as long as you are home.

Winning this award is such an honour, but more than anything, it has reminded me how lucky I am to live and work in this community.

There is so much good here.

Every day, I have the privilege of meeting people who care deeply about making a difference—teachers, parents, community organizations, businesses, frontline workers, and volunteers. Through One Heart Training, I have the opportunity to travel across Saskatchewan offering workshops that help people stay safe, support one another, and talk more openly about mental health.

And honestly, it sometimes feels a little strange to receive an award for something that I love so much.

This work has never felt like “just a job.” It is something I care deeply about. It is something that matters to me. To be recognized for doing work that is rooted in purpose, community, and love is something I will never take for granted.

When I accepted this award, I shared a story that has always stayed with me.

 

A little girl was walking along the beach after a storm, throwing stranded starfish back into the ocean one at a time. A man watched her and said, “There are thousands of starfish on this beach. You can’t possibly make a difference.”

The little girl picked up another starfish, threw it back into the water, and replied:

“It made a difference to that one.”

That is what community work feels like.

We may not be able to solve every problem or help every person. But every time we help one child feel safer, one family feel supported, one person learn CPR, one person feel less alone in their mental health journey—we are making a difference.

One starfish at a time.

To my fellow 45 finalists: thank you. Thank you for the work you do, for the example you set, and for the difference you make in our community every single day.

And to the women who have shaped me, supported me, challenged me, and loved me: thank you.

Strong women do not just inspire you.

They shape how you show up in the world.

If you are interested in making any donations to YWCA, please visit: https://ywcaregina.com/donate/

 

If you or someone you know needs support:

Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness — it’s an act of courage. Healing looks different for everyone, and needing help along the way is part of being human.

For more information about the incredible work of the YWCA, to donate, or to access support:

• If you are in need of urgent assistance, call 306-525-2141 and press “0” to connect with 24-hour staff.
• You can email map@ywcaregina.com to contact My Aunt’s Place or ijs@ywcaregina.com to contact Isabel Johnson Shelter if you are in immediate need of shelter.
• For general inquiries, email ywcaregina@ywcaregina.com