Nominees for the Special Personality Award are recommended by peers, organizations, and members of the public. A panel of judges — including previous award recipients, community advocates, and cultural representatives — carefully reviews each submission. This holistic approach ensures that the award recognizes not just achievements, but the essence of the individual. The Special Personality Award is typically presented at an annual gala in Toronto attended by community leaders, artists, philanthropists, and the media.
The event is not just a celebration, but a reflection — a moment for the city to honor those who make it a better place through their personality and presence. Winners receive a handcrafted trophy symbolizing “light and spirit,” along with a certificate of recognition from city officials. In some cases, a community grant or charity donation is made in the recipient’s name to further their work or values. Their stories serve as living proof that even one person’s personality — when guided by compassion — can influence hundreds of lives.
