UCBA Awards

Award Recipients

Each year, the Ukrainian Canadian Bar Association proudly recognizes excellence in the legal profession and service to community. The following honourees have exemplified the Association’s values of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the Ukrainian Canadian community.

Ukrainian Canadian Lawyer of the Year

2024 – Alexandra Chyczij, President, Ukrainian Canadian Congress

Canadian Lawyer of the Year

2024 – Arif Virani, Minister of Justice, Attorney General of Canada

Terms of Reference for the Ukrainian Canadian Bar Association (UCBA) Awards

1. Ukrainian Canadian Lawyer of the Year Award

Purpose: The Ukrainian Canadian Lawyer of the Year Award is established to recognize and honour an outstanding Ukrainian Canadian lawyer who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievements, contributions to the legal community, and commitment to the Ukrainian Canadian community.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be a practicing lawyer in Canada.
  • Must be of Ukrainian descent or have made significant contributions to the Ukrainian Canadian community.
  • Demonstrated excellence in the practice of law, including but not limited to litigation, advocacy, legal scholarship, or public service.
  • Active involvement in community service, particularly within the Ukrainian Canadian community.
  • Must be a member in good standing of the Ukrainian Canadian Bar Association.

Nomination Process:

  • Nominations can be submitted by any member of the UCBA or by a recognized legal organization in Canada.
  • Nominations must include:
    • A completed nomination form.
    • A detailed letter of nomination outlining the nominee’s qualifications and contributions.
    • At least two letters of support from individuals familiar with the nominee’s work.
    • A current resume or curriculum vitae of the nominee.
    • Any additional supporting documents, such as publications, awards, or media coverage.

Selection Process:

  • A selection committee appointed by the UCBA Board of Directors will review all nominations.
  • The committee will evaluate nominees based on the eligibility criteria and the quality of the supporting documentation.
  • The committee may conduct interviews or request additional information if necessary.
  • The decision of the selection committee is final.

Award Presentation:

  • The award will be presented at the annual UCBA Gala or another suitable event.
  • The recipient will receive a commemorative plaque or trophy and a certificate of recognition.
  • The recipient’s achievements will be highlighted in UCBA publications and on the UCBA website.

2. Canadian Lawyer of the Year Award

Purpose: The Canadian Lawyer of the Year Award is established to recognize and honour an outstanding lawyer in Canada who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievements and contributions to the legal community.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be a practicing lawyer in Canada.
  • Demonstrated excellence in the practice of law, including but not limited to litigation, advocacy, legal scholarship, or public service.
  • Significant contributions to the legal profession and the broader community.
  • Must be a member in good standing of a recognized Canadian bar association.

Nomination Process:

  • Nominations can be submitted by any member of a recognized Canadian bar association or by a legal organization in Canada.
  • Nominations must include:
    • A completed nomination form.
    • A detailed letter of nomination outlining the nominee’s qualifications and contributions.
    • At least two letters of support from individuals familiar with the nominee’s work.
    • A current resume or curriculum vitae of the nominee.
    • Any additional supporting documents, such as publications, awards, or media coverage.

Selection Process:

  • A selection committee appointed by the UCBA Board of Directors will review all nominations.
  • The committee will evaluate nominees based on the eligibility criteria and the quality of the supporting documentation.
  • The committee may conduct interviews or request additional information if necessary.
  • The decision of the selection committee is final.

Award Presentation:

  • The award will be presented at the annual meeting, gala or another suitable event.
  • The recipient will receive a commemorative plaque or trophy and a certificate of recognition.
  • The recipient’s achievements will be highlighted in UCBA publications and/or on the UCBA website.

Both awards are granted to deserving individuals who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and their communities, reflecting the values and mission of the Ukrainian Canadian Bar Association.