The 2024 IWA World Water Congress and Exhibition kicked off in Toronto on August 11 with an inspiring opening ceremony that celebrated excellence in the water sector. Three distinguished awards were presented, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing sustainable water management worldwide.
Sabrina Rashid Sheonty from Tetra – Water for Life Canada was honored with the Young Leadership Award for her exceptional contributions to water sustainability and her role as an emerging leader in the field.
Dr. Juliet Willets of the University of Technology Sydney, Australia, received the Gender Diversity and Water Award in recognition of her work in promoting gender diversity and inclusion within the water sector.
The prestigious Global Water Award was presented to Dr. Joan Rose of Michigan State University, United States, for her groundbreaking research and leadership in global water quality and safety.
According to the IWA, “These Awards recognize the broad range of excellence, leadership, and innovation that IWA members and others bring to both our Association and the sector at large. Through this recognition, the awards encourage tangible progress that contributes to the sustainable management of water.”
These awards highlight the critical importance of leadership and innovation in addressing global water challenges, and they set the tone for the rest of the Congress, which will feature discussions and collaborations aimed at advancing sustainable water solutions worldwide.
