Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury Honours Community Excellence at Annual Civic Awards

The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury (BWG) proudly celebrates residents, organizations, and teams through its annual Civic Awards program, recognizing those who have made meaningful contributions to the community. 

Established in 2007 as part of Bradford’s 150th anniversary, the program continues to honour individuals and groups who help make BWG a vibrant and connected community. Recipients are recognized each year during Canada Day celebrations at the Bradford and District Memorial Community Centre.

2026 Civic Award Recipients

Organization of the Year – Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association 
Recognized for outstanding community service, including snow clearing for vulnerable residents, food drive efforts totaling 7,000 pounds and $10,000 in donations, and ongoing blood donation initiatives.

Sports Team of the Year – South Simcoe Storm U11AA 
Honoured for strong performance on the ice and community involvement, including fundraising and volunteer efforts. Their season included multiple tournament wins and championship titles.

Bravery Award – Mason Donkin 
Celebrated for his courage living with Chiari and inspiring the community through the Walk for Chiari, which has raised over $100,000 for SickKids Hospital.

Volunteer of the Year – Liz Lambert 
Recognized for her leadership and dedication as Treasurer of the Portuguese Cultural Centre, strengthening the organization and supporting its success.

Sports Achievement Award – Mba Chukwu 
Honoured for captaining Canada’s U-17 Men’s National Soccer Team to its first-ever victory at a men’s youth FIFA World Cup.

Green Initiative Award – Green Initiatives Advisory Committee 
Recognized for advancing environmental sustainability and helping guide the Town’s Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy.

Senior of the Year – Christine Simpson 
Celebrated for a lifetime of volunteer service and leadership across civic, faith, and community organizations.

Junior Citizen of the Year – Maha Qureshi 
Honoured for her compassion and commitment to service through community initiatives supporting those in need.

Citizen of the Year – Jennifer Pegg 
Recognized for over 30 years of community involvement, leadership, and ongoing support of local events and initiatives.

The Town extends its congratulations to all recipients for their outstanding contributions to Bradford West Gwillimbury.