Awards

The City recognizes excellence in a variety of fields. Check out the list below to see if you or someone you know is eligible.

Name Audience Description
Civic Sport Merit Awards and Arts & Culture Merit Awards Parks and Recreation Leaders Recognition for outstanding achievement in sports or arts and culture
Emerging Cultural Leader Award Individuals under 30 years of age who have contributed significantly to the cultural life in Nanaimo. This award recognizes up-and-coming, Nanaimo-based cultural leaders.
Excellence in Culture Award An organization or individual that has achieved regional and/or national recognition and is recognized as a “Nanaimo artist" This award is presented to an organization or individual that has achieved regional and/or national recognition and is recognized as a "Nanaimo artist", demonstrating excellence in their field, and a significant inspiration to others.
Freedom of the City Resident of Nanaimo Honours someone with a lifetime of achievement who has enhanced the livability of the city or who has gained national and international acclaim and who has brought recognition to Nanaimo through their achievements.
Green Nanaimo Awards Individuals, local businesses, schools and non-profit groups throughout Nanaimo Every two years, we recognize individuals, local businesses, schools and non-profit groups throughout Nanaimo that make valuable contributions to the City's environment.
Heritage Building Rehabilitation Award Building Owners Heritage Building Rehabilitation Awards recognizes efforts made by property owners to conserve and rehabilitate Nanaimo's registered heritage buildings
Honour in Culture Award An individual, group or corporation who demonstrates outstanding support, advocacy, promotion or interpretation of Nanaimo’s arts culture and history This award recognizes an individual, group or corporation who demonstrates outstanding support, advocacy, promotion or interpretation of Nanaimo's arts culture and history.
Honour in Heritage Award An individual, group or corporation known for their dedication to and support of the development of Nanaimo's cultural fabric This award acknowledges an individual, group or corporation known for their dedication to and support of the development of Nanaimo's cultural fabric.
John Thomson Heritage Memorial Award Individuals who demonstrate outstanding lifetime heritage service and dedication to the community The John Thomson Heritage Memorial Award honours individuals who demonstrate outstanding lifetime heritage service and dedication to the community.
Patron/Companion of the City Resident of Nanaimo who demonstrates outstanding achievement and selfless volunteerism Patron of the City award recognizes outstanding achievement and selfless volunteerism

Last updated: June 16, 2025


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