In June 2010, Ms. Jiwani was on Rideau Hall alongside UN Head Quarters staff and various who’s who of Canadian philanthropy sector to recognize the efforts of the 23rd Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency Michaelle Jean. Ms. Jiwani had the honor of presenting the 2009 UNIFEM Canada Award to Madam Jean. In her address to the dignitaries Ms. Jiwani stated “At the Canadian National Committee we believe that Her Excellency is a hero in our time, akin to role models such as Emily Murphy of the Famous Five and His Highness The Aga Khan who have consistently demonstrated a commitment to bettering the lives of girls and women globally and locally.” The Award Ceremony at Rideau Hall was used by Ms. Jiwani as an effective opportunity to build partnership and promote gender equality initiatives with Canadian officials and other civil society actors.
Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, was presented with the 2009 United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) Canada Award during a ceremony to be held at Rideau Hall, on Wednesday June 2, 2010, at 11 a.m. The award was presented to the Governor General by Ms. Almas Jiwani, President of UNIFEM Canada. Each year, the organization presents this award to a Canadian who contributed in an outstanding manner to advancing gender equality.