Emerging Leaders Award
For outstanding achievement by a young professional in mineral exploration and development.
This award celebrates individuals who are helping shape the future of the sector through professional excellence, innovation, collaboration and a commitment to responsible mineral development. Recipients of this award will have demonstrated one or more of the following:
To be eligible, nominees must:
- Significant professional or technical contributions within their field;
- Innovation or creative approaches that have positively influenced projects, organizations or the broader industry;
- Leadership, teamwork or mentorship that supports the development of others;
- Meaningful contributions to safety, environmental stewardship, community engagement or social responsibility;
- Active involvement in PDAC, professional associations, or industry and community initiatives.
To be eligible, nominees must:
- Be 40 years of age or younger as of Dec. 31 of the nomination year;
- Have three to five years of experience in the mineral exploration and development industry;
- Be a PDAC member;
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or have made significant contributions to the Canadian mineral industry;
- Be currently employed or actively engaged in the mineral exploration and development industry (e.g., geoscience, engineering, environmental, finance or community relations roles);
- Be registered with a relevant professional organization, where applicable.
2026 PDAC Awards
Step into an evening of inspiration and connections at the PDAC Awards Celebration & Nite Cap on March 3, 2026 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto. This is the “can’t miss” night of the PDAC 2026 Convention, celebrating achievement, building connections, and raising a glass to the future of the industry!
PDAC Awards Nomination Guide and Form
Do you know an individual or organization making an outstanding contribution to the mineral exploration and mining industry? Nominations are now open for the 2027 PDAC Awards.
Previous Award
Recipients
Discover the trailblazers and visionaries who have left an indelible mark on their respective fields, showcasing the pinnacle of achievement and inspiration.
