YMCA Women of Excellence Honourees
Saidat Abari

Celebrating Saidat Abari: A Leader in Arts, Education, and Community Empowerment
Saidat shines as a beacon of leadership, creativity, and inspiration, with a mission spanning over two decades to uplift and empower through the arts. As a dynamic entertainer and speaker, her vibrant performances in The Saidat Show have reached over 3 million people, promoting powerful messages of kindness, inclusion, and collaboration to audiences of all ages.
A passionate keynote speaker, author, and musician, Saidat is deeply committed to creating spaces where diverse voices can thrive. Her work extends beyond the stage, championing representation, mental health awareness, and inclusion in communities across Canada and beyond. Through her extensive volunteer efforts and partnerships with charitable organizations, she has supported marginalized communities and inspired countless individuals to see the power of their potential.
Saidat's achievements have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the W.E.A.N Community Centre Black Excellence Award and The London Essence and Culture Award, reflecting her work's profound and lasting influence. She continues to be a role model for young women and artists, living by her empowering mantra: "One person can make a difference; together, we can change the world."
Through her compassion, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Saidat is building a more inclusive and compassionate world, ensuring future generations are empowered to lead with courage and purpose.
Dr. Janet Collins

Honouring Dr. Janet Collins: Breaking Barriers through Resilience and Leadership
Dr. Janet Collins embodies perseverance, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to social justice. As one of 11 children, her passion for education began early, starting school at just four years old. Her academic journey led her to the University College of the West Indies, graduating with First Class Honours in Botany, Chemistry, and Zoology. She earned her PhD in Cell Biology from Case Western University at 26, a significant achievement at a time when Black women were underrepresented in academia.
Her career included a postdoctoral fellowship at Queen’s University and a tenure at Dalhousie University as an associate professor. Beyond academia, Dr. Collins’s dedication to social justice has shone through her advocacy for women’s reproductive rights and marginalized communities, including her time at the University of Western Ontario Law School.
As a leader of the London Chapter of the Congress of Black Women, she implemented programs like financial literacy seminars and scholarships for mature women, empowering countless individuals. Her community service extends to boards like the Children’s Aid Society and London Symphonia, championing justice, education, and the arts.
Recognized with the Queen’s 60th Jubilee Medal, Dr. Collins’s legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and a commitment to a just and inclusive world. She continues to inspire others to break barriers and reach new heights of achievement.
Lynne Livingstone

Lynne Livingstone: A Leader Shaping Stronger Communities and Empowering Women
Lynne Livingstone is a distinguished public servant with over 35 years of experience, known for her transformative impact in Ontario’s public service. As City Manager of London, she became the second woman to hold this position, shaping a more inclusive and prosperous community.
Lynne has championed initiatives that prioritize women, children, and marginalized communities. She played a key role in creating Ontario’s Early Years Centre's (now EarlyON programs), providing vital resources to families across the province. Lynne also led the creation of the London Child and Youth Network, a collaborative effort to improve outcomes for children and families.
A passionate advocate for equity, inclusivity and safety, Lynne was instrumental in establishing the City’s Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression division, helping to ensure opportunities for all, and oversaw the implementation of key initiatives like Safe Cities London and A London For Everyone: An Action Plan to Disrupt Islamophobia.
Lynne’s leadership was pivotal during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she guided the City’s response and supported the community’s recovery. Her efforts in addressing homelessness, particularly the development of the Whole of Community System Response, have garnered national recognition.
As a mentor and advocate for women in leadership, Lynne continues to inspire the next generation of female leaders. Recognized with numerous awards, including the London West Leading Women Leading Girls award, Lynne’s dedication has established a legacy through creating stronger, more inclusive communities for future generations.
Cass Bayley

Cass Bayley: Entrepreneur, Innovator, and Community Leader
Cass Bayley is a visionary entrepreneur, renowned for her transformative contributions to the event planning, tourism, and hospitality industries. After launching the Bayley Group in 1992, she became a key figure in London’s business landscape, managing major events such as LONDON 200 and the Canadian Comedy Awards. Cass’s leadership helped make a significant economic impact in the region, and she mentored countless aspiring event planners through her work with the Canadian Society of Professional Event Planners.
Cass created a niche division of the company to provide exemplary management of national and international medical conferences, building an all-female team and investing in cutting-edge systems to handle the complexities of scientific programs.
Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident with the growth of the Bayley Group. In 2020, she successfully pivoted her business to virtual events, leading the way in digital solutions for global clients. This flexibility and forward-thinking approach epitomize Cass's relentless drive to innovate.
In addition to her business achievements, Cass has been a committed community leader playing a pivotal role in the launch of Jessica’s House Hospice, the Huron Harvest Trail, and the Ontario West Coast campaign. Cass has also supported women entrepreneurs, advocating for female empowerment in the workplace and beyond, fostering a supportive, creative environment at the Bayley Group where women thrive.
Dr. Susan McNair

Dr. Susan McNair: A Champion for Survivors of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence
Dr. Susan McNair is a distinguished leader in health care, renowned for her transformative work in trauma-informed care. With over 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to supporting victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. As the Medical Director of the Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, Dr. McNair has led a groundbreaking program providing specialized medical, forensic, and psychological care. Her pioneering efforts also include integrating pediatric services for sexually abused children, making the Centre a critical resource for the region.
A committed educator and mentor, Dr. McNair serves as an Associate Professor at Western University in the Department of Family Medicine, shaping the future of healthcare through her trauma-informed curriculum in both the clinic and lecture hall settings. She advocates for women in medicine, providing mentorship and leadership, and actively works to improve gender representation in academic and clinical fields.
Dr. McNair’s impact extends beyond her direct care and teaching. As Medical Advisor to the Ontario Network of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre's, she has developed provincial protocols, trained law enforcement and legal professionals, and worked to ensure a holistic approach to victim care. Her extensive contributions have earned her numerous awards, including the 2024 College of Physicians and Surgeons Board of Directors Award and the 2018 Award of Excellence from the College of Family Physicians of Canada.
Dr. McNair’s legacy of compassionate leadership continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals and positively impacts countless lives.
Dr. Treena Orchard

Honouring Dr. Treena Orchard: A Champion of Social Justice and Women's Empowerment
Dr. Treena Orchard, a distinguished faculty member at Western University, is being honoured for her groundbreaking work in social justice, women's health, and digital sexuality. As an anthropologist and feminist scholar, Dr. Orchard’s research challenges traditional boundaries in health sciences, focusing on marginalized voices in sex work, HIV/AIDS, and gender diversity. Her use of qualitative and arts-based research in Canada and globally, elevates the human experience in academic discourse.
Dr. Orchard promotes a holistic view of health and of who we are as people. Her research and teaching examine the complex and fluid dimensions of social identity, sexuality, and relationships. Dr. Orchard’s personal and engaging writing about dating apps and swipe culture has sparked global discussions about sexuality and dating app design. She consults for tech creatives, community organizations, and individuals who seek Dr. Orchard’s unique insights. Her contributions to global conversations about digital sexuality are reflected in her many media appearances, the webinars she designs, and taking part in public literary events.
A mentor and advocate for women’s rights, Dr. Orchard guides countless women in academia and research. Her studies on COVID’s impact on relationships and mental health among marginalized women, along with her work on sexual health for gender-diverse communities, exemplify her dedication to improving lives.
Dr. Sarah Woodruff

Dr. Sarah Woodruff: A Trailblazer in Health, Wellness, and Community Leadership
Dr. Sarah Woodruff is a transformative leader in sport, fitness, and recreation, known for her impactful work as Associate Dean of Academic Programs and a professor in the Faculty of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor. She was the first woman to serve as Department Head of Kinesiology, breaking barriers and inspiring future leaders in fields traditionally led by men. Under her leadership, Sarah has helped transform educational experiences, enhanced academic programs, and supported student success. Beyond her Faculty, Sarah serves on several campus committees addressing issues such as student mental health and food security.
Sarah is a leading multidisciplinary researcher focused on advancing health and wellness across Canada. With nearly $1.2 million in research funding and over 90 published works, she partners with organizations like BANA, LAWS, and public health units to tackle pressing issues related to physical activity, nutrition, and body image. Translating research into action, she leads community programs for young girls and children in underprivileged neighborhoods.
As a mentor, Sarah has guided countless students to achieve scholarships, awards, and leadership roles. Her mentees have excelled in public health, research, education, and non-profits, carrying forward the values and lessons she instilled. She inspires those around her, transforming lives through her leadership, mentorship, and community well-being. Dr. Woodruff’s work embodies the YMCA’s mission of igniting growth and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Ghallia Hashem

Empowering Leadership and Advocacy: Ghallia Hashem’s Impact
Ghallia Hashem is an inspiring young leader whose dedication and resilience have made her a powerful force for change in her community. As President of the University of Windsor Students’ Alliance (UWSA), she leads over 10,000 students, championing initiatives like the UWSA's first Human Rights policy and the UThrive mental health campaign. As a law student, Ghallia advocates for women of colour and promotes inclusivity in the legal field.
Beyond her academic achievements, Ghallia has created spaces for women and marginalized groups to thrive. Through her role at the Womxn’s Centre and as a Psychology Mentor, she has empowered others by providing guidance and fostering connections. As Vice-President of Outreach for the Palestinian Law Students Association, Ghallia continues to amplify underrepresented voices in law.
Her community impact extends to local organizations such as the Windsor Islamic Association, where she has coordinated mentorship programs and interfaith events to bridge divides and promote understanding. Ghallia’s leadership has also positively impacted people across the university, where she initiated a campaign for student mental health and raised funds to support Indigenous students.
A Syrian Canadian woman, Ghallia exemplifies perseverance and the importance of representation. Through her work, she demonstrates that one person’s drive, compassion, and vision can transform lives and inspire future generations of leaders. Through her unwavering commitment to advocacy and empowerment, she is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
2025 YMCA Women of Excellence Awards Gala
Join us for the 2025 YMCA Women of Excellence Awards Gala on Tuesday, May 15, 2025 at RBC Place London!
See past recipients from other years.