Building People and Community — Honouring Tony Giovinazzo as the Next Citizen of the Year

March 25, 2025 – KITCHENER – Activa’s Chief Executive Officer, Tony Giovinazzo, will be honored as the 65th Kitchener-Waterloo Citizen of the Year on May 27^th at Conestoga College’s Waterloo Campus. Renowned for his exceptional leadership in both the private and non-profit sectors, Tony exemplifies the qualities celebrated by this prestigious award.

“Community and people-building have been the driving forces in my life,” shares Mr. Giovinazzo. “Having lived in the Region for over half of my life, I am immensely proud to call it home. My heartfelt thanks to the Lion’s Club; I am truly honored to receive this recognition as Citizen of the Year.”

Tony has excelled in a successful real estate, planning, development, construction and finance career – helping to drive the economic success of our community.

As a long-time community enthusiast and member of the Kitchener Westmount Rotary Club, Tony is a silent champion and supporter behind many good causes.

He has distinguished himself as a generous, nonprofit trailblazer who has helped guide boards including the University of Waterloo, Family and Children’s Services, Sanguen Health Centre and Regional Police Services. Under Tony’s leadership, Activa contributes both financial and human resources to many local organizations including KidsAbility, Habitat for Humanity, Hockey Helps the Homeless, the House of Friendship among many others.

In recognition of Tony’s remarkable volunteer work and commitment to our community’s well-being, he has been presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal as well as the Greater K-W Chamber of Commerce’s celebrated Michael R. Follett Community Leader Award in 2024.

Importantly, Tony’s genuine approach to community building brings out the best in others without ever seeking the limelight for himself.

Event Co-Chairs Mary D’Alton and Jack Bishop, praise Tony’s exceptional qualities, noting his passion and devotion to his family, industry and community. “These qualities and more make Tony an excellent choice for the 2024 Citizen of the Year award.”

About the Kitchener-Waterloo Citizen of the Year

Hosted by the Lions Club of Kitchener, the Citizen of the Year Award recognizes a deserving resident from the Kitchener and Waterloo area and is the club’s premier fundraising initiative. The award was first presented to Ira Needles in 1957. Over the years, the long list of esteemed community visionaries has grown to include names like: Cathy Brothers, Neil Aitchison, Ron Schlegel, Mandy Bujold and Jim Hallman.

Seats are limited. Table and sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting [email protected] or [email protected]. The Citizen of the Year gala reception will start at 6:00 pm with dinner to follow at 7:00 pm.