Congratulations to the Recipient of the 2023 Agnes Macphail Award

Each year, the East York Agnes Macphail Recognition Committee reviews an impressive list of candidates nominated for the Agnes Macphail Award.
 
Agnes Macphail – who lived by the motto, "think globally, act locally" – was a trailblazer in Canadian politics. In 1921, she was the first woman to be elected to the Federal House of Commons and in 1943, went on to be the first woman sworn in as a Member of the Ontario Legislative Assembly. An outspoken advocate on a range of issues, including women's rights and access to adequate housing, health care and education, Agnes continues to inspire people around the country more than a century later. The Agnes Macphail Award was created in her honour to recognize a resident in East York who has made outstanding volunteer contributions to causes that are close to Agnes' heart.
 
This year, the Agnes Macphail Award was given to Ward 15 resident Shakhlo Sharipova – a dedicated and compassionate community leader. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Thorncliffe Park Autism Support Network, Shakhlo works year-round to provide supportive programming to families of children with autism, including a highly successful summer camp. Shakhlo also serves on a number of City-run groups and committees, including the Toronto Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy Advisory Group, where she is a respected community voice. Her work has touched the lives of dozens of local families. 
 
I know I speak for many in congratulating Shakhlo on this well-deserved recognition. The award ceremony will be held in March and details will be available on the City's website.