The MNL For Progress Award recognizes a currently elected municipal councillor or mayor who has made an outstanding contribution to advancing the municipal sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

The award honours elected leaders whose vision, leadership, and commitment have strengthened municipalities and local government through advocacy, collaboration, innovation, or service. Recipients will have demonstrated leadership that extends beyond the responsibilities of their own council, contributing to stronger municipalities, improved local governance, and a more resilient municipal sector across the province. 

Selection Criteria 

Nominees should demonstrate: 

1. Sector Leadership – Has made an outstanding contribution to advancing municipalities or local government in Newfoundland and Labrador through leadership, advocacy, or innovation.
2. Impact – Has achieved meaningful and lasting outcomes that have strengthened the municipal sector or benefited municipalities beyond their own community.
3. Collaboration and Service – Demonstrates a commitment to working collaboratively with municipal leaders, partners, and organizations to advance the interests of municipalities and local government.

The MNL Catalyst Award recognizes an outstanding first-term municipal councillor or mayor who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and made a significant positive contribution early in their elected service. 

The award celebrates emerging municipal leaders who bring energy, initiative, and a commitment to improving their communities. Recipients will have shown that meaningful change is not dependent on years of service, but on vision, collaboration, and a willingness to take action. Through their leadership, they will have inspired progress and made a measurable difference in their municipality. 

Selection Criteria 

Nominees should demonstrate: 

1. Emerging Leadership – Demonstrates initiative, dedication, and leadership beyond what would typically be expected of a first-term elected official.
2. Community Impact – Has made a meaningful and measurable contribution that has improved their municipality or enhanced the quality of life for residents.
3. Commitment to Public Service – Demonstrates collaboration, integrity, and a strong commitment to serving their community and supporting effective local governance.

Presented to a woman or gender-diverse individual whose longtime dedication to local government has benefited the people of their community and has inspired others to step forward into leadership roles.

Selection Criteria

Nominees should demonstrate: 

1. Encourages and exemplifies the virtue of good citizenship
2. Touched or enriched the lives of others, particularly those within your community and/or region
3. Shown ongoing initiative, leadership and dedication
4. Earned the respect of their peers and become a role model in the municipal sector
5. Demonstrates innovation or creativity in delivering lasting results