The Next Gen Trailblazer Award

The Next Gen Trailblazer Award celebrates and supports early to mid-career professionals in broadcasting who demonstrate outstanding leadership, creativity, and passion. Five winners will be chosen to join the Trailblazers panel at Radio Days North America 2026, receiving a $1,000 bursary from Orbyt Media and a $1,000 prize from The Scotiabank Women Initiative.

The 2026 Next Gen Award Recipients

  • Sarah Christie

    BELL MEDIA

    “It’s an honour to be surrounded and led by women who foster an environment of growth and creativity. I feel so fortunate to get to learn from the powerhouse women around me.”

  • Ashleigh Harvey

    QUINTE BROADCASTING

  • Amanda Boland

    STINGRAY

    “What an honour to be recognized among such impressive and incredibly talented women! I’m so proud to be here with all of you and feel endlessly grateful to the amazing women and people who’ve helped shape my career so far.”

  • Shannon Ella

    BELL MEDIA

    “When I think about this award, I think about all the women who paved the way before me and the ones I’ve had the honor of working beside. Being recognized as a Next Gen Trailblazer is so special, and not something I take lightly. If anything, I hope this helps inspire the next wave of voices to step forward and be heard.”

  • Katie Summers

    STINGRAY

    “I am deeply proud of so many things I’ve accomplished as a woman in broadcasting, and this recognition feels incredibly meaningful as it represents not just my journey, but the doors that continue to break open for women in the industry. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the women in Canadian radio are outstanding. Talented, inspiring, barrier breaking and I am proudest of all to work alongside them in every facet of this industry.”