The Violet Richardson Award recognizes young women who make the community and world a better place through volunteer action.
Are you a young woman who volunteers in your community or school? Who sees challenges instead of obstacles? If you believe in the power of volunteer action, you may be eligible to win a Soroptimist Violet Richardson Award.
Named after the president of the first Soroptimist club, this award honours young women between the ages of 14 and 18 for their volunteer action, such as advocating for student rights, fighting drugs, crime and violence, cleaning up the environment, and working to end discrimination and poverty.
“Volunteer actions that benefit women or girls are especially valued.”
Our 2026 Violet Richardson Award recipients are
Lola Anthony, Catelyn Dang, Nagham Alyousef, Myra Vadhera, Stephanie Lee, and Anisabonu Abduhamedova.
These young women are already making meaningful contributions in their schools and communities through advocacy, volunteerism, leadership, creativity, and care.
Each recipient reflects the heart of the Violet Richardson Award: young women using their voices, skills, and commitment to help create a better world for others.
For an indepth look at the highlights of each of our recipients, please visit our News blog.
Please ensure you meet all the criteria below before submitting your application.
Must be currently in high school between the ages of 14 and 18.
Must live or volunteer within Vancouver or Richmond, BC.
Demonstrated initiative in identifying a problem and trying to solve it.
Had significant and noteworthy accomplishments as a volunteer.
Reflect on your volunteer experience. We want to know:
Share your personal struggles (if any) at school, home, or your volunteer organization. Explain what winning this award would mean to you and if this experience has shaped your career path.
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