Celebrating 20 Years of Recognizing Immigrant Success in Edmonton
The Newcomer Centre’s RISE Awards — Recognizing Immigrant Success in Edmonton — celebrate the incredible contributions of immigrants, newcomers, community leaders, businesses, and organizations who help make Edmonton stronger, more inclusive, and more welcoming.
Celebrating Excellence. Strengthening Community.
For nearly two decades, the RISE Awards have celebrated the outstanding achievements and contributions of immigrants, newcomers, and community and business leaders helping shape Edmonton’s future.
What began as a celebration of empowerment and belonging has grown into one of our city’s premier events recognizing social, cultural, and economic impact.
By honouring the stories, leadership, and successes of newcomers, the RISE Awards highlight the important role diversity, resilience, and innovation play in building a stronger and more connected community.
In 2026, we are proud to celebrate the 20th Annual RISE Awards.
Award Categories
Celebrate Someone Making a Difference
Every day, immigrants, newcomers, community leaders, businesses, and organizations help shape a stronger, more welcoming Edmonton. The Newcomer Centre’s RISE Awards recognize the people whose leadership, courage, innovation, and commitment create meaningful impact in our community.
Help us celebrate their stories by submitting a nomination in one of the following award categories:
- Young Leader Award – Recognizes a young leader who is already creating meaningful change in their community. Through initiative, vision, and courage, they are helping shape a more inclusive and welcoming future.
- Community and Culture Award – Recognizes individuals or organizations who bring people together across cultures and experiences. Through community-building, arts, and cultural expression, their work strengthens relationships and creates a sense of belonging where newcomers feel connected and valued.
- Economic Impact Award – Celebrates entrepreneurs, professionals, and organizations whose leadership and innovation create opportunity while strengthening the economic vitality of the community.
- Advocacy in Action Award – Recognizes individuals whose care, advocacy, and service help newcomers overcome barriers and build a sense of belonging.
- Woman of Impact Award – Recognizes an immigrant woman whose leadership, courage, and contributions have made a meaningful impact in the community.
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Honours an individual whose lifetime of leadership, service, and contribution has helped create a more inclusive and welcoming community.
To nominate someone for a 2026 Newcomer Centre RISE Award, then use this easy-to-use online submission form to share their story!
Nominations close on Aug. 15, 2026.
Date: Thursday, November 19 2026
Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Edmonton Expo Centre: 7515 – 118 Avenue
Dress Code: Cultural or Semi-Formal Attire
Tickets go on sale on Eventbrite on June 24, 2026.
Eventbrite link available here on June 24. Get yours early for this 20th anniversary gala!
Follow along at:
- @YEGnewcomers
- #RISEAwards
- Direct sponsorship inquiries to: ahayes@newcomercentre.com
- Direct nomination and general questions to: rise@newcomercentre.com
