It was a night celebrating innovation, leadership and community impact as the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Impact Awards Friday at the Joe Thornton Community Centre.
This year’s theme, “Level Up: The Impact Arcade,” set the tone for an energetic evening recognizing businesses, non-profits and individuals helping shape St. Thomas, Central Elgin and Southwold.
Seven awards were handed out throughout the night, highlighting contributions across a wide range of categories.
The Circle of Excellence Award, recognizing long-standing and significant community contribution, went to the Yarmouth Group.
The Business of the Year Award, which honours consistent excellence and service over the past year, was awarded to Evelyn’s Sausage Kitchen.
In the Inspirational Women Award category, the honour went to Our Place Respite.
The Barry Fitzgerald Young Professional of the Year Award, recognizing emerging leaders under 40, was presented to Ainslee Tracey of Royal LePage Triland.
The New Business of the Year Award went to Taco House Co., highlighting strong early success and community impact.
The Unsung Heroes Non-Profit Award was awarded to Dr. Joe Mai of Central Community Health Centre, recognizing meaningful contributions to local health and community service.
And the Mayors’ Choice Award, selected by local municipal leaders, went to Element5, recognizing its broader impact across the region.
The annual event also featured keynote speaker Michael “Pinball” Clemons, who shared messages of resilience, leadership and community impact, echoing the spirit of the awards themselves.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
