Meet Lina – 2025 YWCA Hamilton Women of Distinction Award Nominee!

We are thrilled to announce that our esteemed colleague, Lina El Ali, has been nominated for the 2025 YWCA Hamilton Women of Distinction Award in the Public Service category! This prestigious award, presented by ArcelorMittal Dofasco, is the largest event honouring women and girls in Hamilton and Halton, celebrating those who have made significant contributions to their communities. 

Lina’s journey from living in a Palestinian camp in Lebanon to becoming a leader in newcomer resettlement in Hamilton is genuinely inspiring. Over the past 32 years, she has used her extensive knowledge, experience, and leadership skills to help thousands of newcomers settle into their new lives in Hamilton. She is a trailblazer in establishing settlement programs like Welsey’s Ukrainian Support and Asylum Seekers Assistance Program (ASAP). Now leading ASAP, one of the few programs directly assisting asylum seekers in Canada, Lina has been instrumental in providing transitional housing and support services to asylum seekers. 

Working with newcomers is of special significance to Lina. She understands the challenges of starting a new life in a foreign country and is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Through her efforts, Lina and her team ensure newcomers feel supported, connected to resources, and empowered on their journey toward success. She finds joy in helping people reach their goals and destinations, demonstrating her selfless nature and commitment to community service.   

Inspired by her grandmother, who championed the importance of education, Lina goes beyond her direct service work and is passionate about professional development and career advancement. She is known for her excellent problem-solving, integrity, and honesty. If she is unsure or unable to help someone, she becomes dedicated to finding someone who can. At Wesley, she has become an experienced social service provider and encourages her colleagues to pursue continuous learning and development. By embracing a culture of growth, Lina ensures that Wesley continues to provide high-quality services to the community while supporting her peers’ emotional and professional growth. 

Congratulations to Lina on this well-deserved nomination! We look forward to celebrating her achievements at the Awards Gala on March 5, 2025. 

You can read more about the award, and all nominees at 2025 Women of Distinction Awards, presented by ArcelorMittal Dofasco – YWCA Hamilton and YWCA Hamilton’s Women of Distinction Awards draw 52 nominees