Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton presenting at 2026 Women of Influence Awards luncheon on March 5, 2026. (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

By Erika Rolling

Community

City honours 2026 Women of Influence Awards winners

Mar 6, 2026 | 11:51 AM

Five local women have been honoured for their achievements, leadership, and dedication to their craft during a celebration.

The City of Grande Prairie’s 2026 Women of Influence Awards event was held at Bonnetts Energy Centre on Thursday, March 5; which landed on International Women’s Day intentionally. There was a record number of nominations this year, according to the City.

The 2026 award recipients are (descriptions/pictures below):

Next Generation Award – Grace Larson

Grace Larson, winner of 2026 Women of Influence Next Generation Award. (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

“The Next Generation Award recognizes young women demonstrating exceptional promise, leadership and impact in their community or field.

Grace Larson receives the award in recognition of her growing leadership across northern Alberta. Through her work in economic development, she supports entrepreneurs, small businesses and youth while helping strengthen the region’s business community. Larson has also played a key role in initiatives such as the Hyper Drive Women in Business Summit, helping create opportunities for mentorship, professional development and women’s leadership. Her dedication to supporting others and fostering new opportunities reflects the spirit of the Next Generation Award.”

Game Changer Award – Dr. Vanessa Sheane

Dr. Vanessa Sheane, winner of 2026 Women of Influence Game Changer Award. (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

“The Game Changer Award celebrates women disrupting norms, challenging the status quo and paving the way in their field or community. 

Dr. Vanessa Sheane receives the award in recognition of her leadership in transforming post-secondary education in Northwestern Alberta. Through a clear vision for the future of learning, she has helped shift the focus toward applied education and stronger connections between students, industry and community.

Under her leadership, Northwestern Polytechnic has expanded programs, strengthened partnerships and introduced new opportunities for students across the region, including the development of the Northern Alberta Medical Program. Her work is helping ensure students can access high-quality education close to home while supporting the region’s long-term workforce needs.”

Workplace Leadership Award – Rochelle Schamehorn

Rochelle Schamehorn, winner of 2026 Women of Influence Workplace Leadership Award. (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

“The Workplace Leadership Award honours women who excel in leadership roles, fostering growth and inclusion within the workplace.

Rochelle Schamehorn receives the award in recognition of her leadership at Mission Thrift Store, where she has helped create a workplace rooted in dignity, collaboration and support. In just two years as Store Manager, she has cultivated an environment where staff and volunteers feel valued while guiding the store through meaningful growth and stronger connections with the community it serves.

Her leadership has strengthened the store’s impact locally while supporting programs that assist people in need both within the community and around the world.”

Community Leadership Award- Lois Duke

Lois Duke, winner of 2026 Women of Influence Community Leadership Award (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

“The Community Leadership Award recognizes women making significant contributions to the betterment of their community.

Lois Duke receives the award in recognition of her years of volunteer leadership and advocacy. As President of the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, she has helped guide programs and partnerships that support Indigenous communities while strengthening relationships across the region.

Her leadership extends beyond the local level. Duke advocates nationally for Indigenous rights, equitable access to services and continued support for Friendship Centres, while also speaking publicly and engaging leaders on the calls to action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People. Through this work, she continues to foster understanding, strengthen communities and inspire others to take action.”

Lifetime Impact Award – Angie Peters

Angie Peters, winner of 2026 Women of Influence Lifetime Impact Award. (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)

“The Lifetime Impact Award honours women whose enduring contributions have left a lasting legacy in their field or community.

Angie Peters receives the award in recognition of decades of leadership, mentorship and community service that have helped shape both the business community and the broader Grande Prairie region. Through her work in real estate and entrepreneurship, she has supported and guided countless professionals, intentionally mentoring women and creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Her commitment to lifting others up extends far beyond business. For more than three decades, Peters has been a dedicated supporter of initiatives addressing housing insecurity, family violence, mental health and access to the arts. Through her leadership and fundraising with organizations such as Odyssey House and the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, she has helped strengthen supports for families across the region. Through mentorship, generosity and a deep commitment to community, her impact continues to shape Grande Prairie in lasting ways.”

The City says the Women of Influence Awards were created to commemorate International Women’s Day while celebrating women’s achievements, promoting opportunity for all, and highlight the many ways women lead and contribute to the strength and growth of the Grande Prairie community.

The awards were presented by Peace Diagnostic Imaging.