By Sean Delaney
The Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) marked its 45th anniversary with a black-tie award evening at the historic Palais Royale in Toronto. The event brought together BIAs from across the city, civic leaders, and community partners.
The Emery Village Voice was honoured with TABIA’s Advocacy Award as part of the annual TABIA and City of Toronto BIA Recognition Awards. John Kiru and Mayor Olivia Chow presented the award and recognized outstanding efforts in influencing government policy, engaging stakeholders, and promoting the interests of local business communities.
Joining the celebration were Sandra Farina, Executive Director of the Emery Village BIA; Al Ruggiero, Project Manager; and Saumya Singh, Communications Lead, alongside Sean Delaney, publisher and owner of the Emery Village Voice. Their presence reflected the strong working relationship between the newspaper and the Emery Village BIA, built on a shared commitment to advocacy and community engagement.
The Advocacy Award recognizes work that goes beyond day-to-day operations. It highlights efforts to build strong relationships with all levels of government, address significant local issues, and bring real attention to the needs of businesses. In Emery Village, that advocacy has been grounded in telling local stories and ensuring the area’s economic importance is clearly understood.
In recent years, the Emery Village Voice has supported efforts to bring together municipal, provincial, and federal leaders with local businesses, including meetings with Ministers, Councillors, City officials, and Members of Provincial Parliament. During the pandemic, this coordination became especially important. Emery Village is Canada’s largest industrial employment area, home to more than 3,200 businesses and over 35,000 employees, and it stands as a strong example of governments working together to support a vital economic hub.
Now in its 12th year of publication, and heading toward its 13th in 2026, the Emery Village Voice remains focused on making a meaningful difference for both businesses and residents in a community that continues to matter deeply.