NEW YORK, NEW YORK--(Marketwired - Jan 22, 2016) - Catalyst announced today that it will give the Right Honorable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, a special commendation for his leadership in advancing diversity and gender equality. Prime Minister Trudeau, whose historic first cabinet includes equal numbers of women and men, has inspired leaders around the world by championing women's rights and bringing women into the broader political dialogue. His simple explanation for his actions, "because it's 2015," has become a mantra even as we move into a new year.

Prime Minister Trudeau will be formally recognized at the gala 2016 Catalyst Awards Dinner, on March 16, 2016, at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, an annual event that celebrates breakthrough corporate initiatives that accelerate inclusion in the workplace and the world. More than 1,600 guests, including CEOs, leading executives from top global corporations, professional firms, governments, NGOs, and educational institutions will be in attendance.

"Prime Minister Trudeau, through his intentional leadership and commitment to inclusion, sets an example that shows leaders throughout the world what is possible when they deliberately build diverse teams that reflect the marketplace and the communities they serve," says Deborah Gillis, President & CEO, Catalyst. "In today's rapidly changing global economy, it is vital that leaders in all sectors focus on developing all available talent to drive innovation and productivity. The business case for inclusion is well established: what's good for women is also good for business, families, communities, economies, and society as a whole. We commend Prime Minister Trudeau for leading by example. His actions are game changing, setting a new standard for others to follow."

About Catalyst

Founded in 1962, Catalyst is the leading nonprofit organization accelerating progress for women through workplace inclusion. With operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, India, Australia, and Japan, and more than 800 supporting organizations, Catalyst is the trusted resource for research, information, and advice about women at work. Catalyst annually honors exemplary organizational initiatives that promote women's advancement with the Catalyst Award.