Emerging Leaders Award

the 2025 PAAC EMERGING LEADER Recipient

We are proud to announce that the PAAC National Board of Directors has selected Sajjid Lakhani, Director, Government Relations and Strategy, Impact Public Affairs, as the recipient of the 2025 PAAC Emerging Leaders Award.

The Emerging Leaders Award honours a rising professional with under ten years of experience who has already made a strong impact through issue management, integrity, clear communication, and innovative contributions — demonstrating leadership potential and advancing the profession.

CRITERIA:

The nominee(s) is/are currently engaged in a role related to public affairs, government relations, or advocacy either for an organization or as a consultant.
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The nominee(s) is/are no more than 40 years of age prior to November 11, 2025 and preferably worked in a public affairs role for no more than 10 years.They must also have been a resident of Canada for at least one year (prior to November 11, 2024)

Shows strong early-career impact in managing issues and stakeholder relationships.
Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and adaptability under pressure.
Communicates effectively and persuasively on issues important to Canadians.
Contributes fresh, innovative thinking to public affairs practice.
Exhibits leadership potential and commitment to advancing the profession

Nominations

Nominations must Include:

A letter of recommendation for the nominee
A short profile of their current role in Public Affairs (job title, organization)

To nominate a leader in the public affairs industry for the 2026 Award please send an email to:

lois@publicaffairs.ca

Past Recipients of the PAAC Emerging Leaders Award

2025 - Sajjid Lakhani