Venue: The Carlu, 444 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON

Join us for our 9th Annual Gala on November 1, 2024, at The Carlu in Toronto! This year’s theme, “Do, Dare, Dazzle”, promises a night of fabulous fun, incredible entertainment, and meaningful connections.

Every year, CGLCC brings together the 2SLGBTQI+ business community for this signature event, highlighting excellence among business leaders at the forefront of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion through our Business Leadership Awards.

Come and be a part of our celebration as we commemorate the remarkable accomplishments of Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ community! Experience tales of triumph and perseverance shared by courageous 2SLGBTQI+ leaders, and indulge in an evening of dazzling entertainment at The Carlu in Toronto.

Join us as we pay tribute to the achievements and success of 2SLGBTQI+ businesses. Be there to celebrate an amazing year filled with exciting news, connections, and growth for Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ business community.

The gala will take place on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and the home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

On Stage

Shawnee Kish

Shawnee Kish’s, 3 time Juno Nominee and powerful soul voice is why hearing her is a one-of-a-kind experience. Shawnee’s journey in music has been one that she attributes to her strength, survival, and inspiration during her struggle coming out as Two Spirit and her struggle with depression as a child.

Hollywood Jade & Dancers

Hollywood Jade presents “G-Slay Quoi” – an extension of HJP Urbanesque. G-Slay Quoi was born from Gents Slay Quoi, a predominantly male & queer identifying burlesque performance troupe specializing in heels performance-driven choreography, created by the Company’s founder & resident Choreographer, Hollywood Jade. One of Toronto’s visionary Artists, Jade continues to create and discover creative vehicles to present his one of a kind creativity to the masses. This dancer/choreographer turned artistic director has showcased his multidimensional artistic creations on both the big and small screens, local and international stages, and has worked with some of the world’s greatest organizations, artists and talents. As an innovator and creator, he constantly has his finger on the pulse to cultivate memorable and special collaborations leaving him in the headline & on the minds of his new and established fan base. And, of course, watch for him on the award-winning, Canada’s Drag Race, as their resident choreographer and guest judge.

Carlotta Carlisle

The most Glamorous Queen in captivity Carlotta Carlisle looks like the movies but laughs like a truck driver. With east coast charm and a razor sharp tongue she will keep you in or make you require stitches.

Rainbow Circus

Rainbow Circus is a Toronto based inclusive circus company that believes circus arts are for everyone. As a school, they primarily cater to 2SLGBTQ+ and neurodivergent youth through their inclusive circus classes and free rainbow camps. In their performance work, Rainbow Circus seeks to provide entertainment that showcases a wide variety of talented artists, with a specific focus on showcasing disability arts as well as supporting Queer and Trans artists.

DJ Donovan

DJ Donovan Toronto My DJ journey started off at a very young age of 15, not believing that I would’ve taken me to where I am today. I take pride in myself, by being professional and approachable, while aiming to please. I have played school dances, weddings, birthday parties, wrap parties, social events, community events, corporate parties, and prominent events like Black Diamond Ball TO, TIFF, The Vanguard, Pride Toronto and currently the resident DJ at Friday Harbour Resort. The style of music I play range from but not limited to (Old school, Dance (EDM), Reggae, Soca, Afro, Latin, Brazilian, Pop, Classic Rock, R&B/Hip Hop, Funk. Would like to think of myself as a conductor of the dancefloor.

Become a sponsor!

This is your chance to shine as a sponsor, connecting with industry leaders and showcasing your brand in a dazzling setting. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact and be part of something spectacular. Dare to dazzle with us—become a sponsor today!

Suggested Attire

Evening attire is recommended, but only if it makes you feel comfortable. While the event is “Black & White”, we encourage you to Do, Dare, and Dazzle in any colour of the rainbow that expresses who you are!

Silent Auction

Get ready to Do, Dare, and Dazzle with our exciting silent auction, starting October 18, 2024! Bid on incredible items and experiences while supporting our programs. Your participation helps make a difference—so join the fun, place your bids, and let the dazzling begin!

Safety & Accessibility

CGLCC is dedicated to maintaining inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone. During our events, all participants are required to treat each other with dignity, fairness, and respect.

Any harassment and discrimination, including, but not limited to, that based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, age, or disability is not permitted under any circumstance. CGLCC reserves the right to take immediate action, including removing the responsible participant from the event, as well as issuing a permanent ban from any future CGLCC events.

If you witness or experience any form of discrimination or harassment at the GALA, please reach out to the event organizer.

Thank you to our sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors

Award Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Audio Visual Sponsor