Empowerment, support and sisterhood—that’s what the Pepper Pod is all about.

In recognizing the quiet strength and unwavering support women Veterans offer one another, the Pepper Pod created the ELLE-vation Awards—a tribute to those who uplift others during and after military service.

Now in its third year, the ELLE-vation Awards have become a meaningful way to celebrate the achievements of women Veterans across Canada. These awards recognize women Veterans who have helped other women and celebrate their unique strengths and contributions—whether through advocacy, guidance or support.

The ripple effect of empowerment

One of the 2024 recipients, Marty Keates, served 36 years in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). She was recognized for her leadership and mentorship. “Marty was lifting women up before we ever talked about it,” says her nominator. “She taught me how to recognize injustices in the system and how to work to change them.”

Cathy Priestman, Director of Operations at the Pepper Pod and a Veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), reflected on Marty’s legacy: “Having been out of the military for so long and not being aware of the impact that [Marty] had, we were able to honour her for all that she had done for generations before, and for every woman Marty supported,” says Cathy. “Each of them went on to do the same thing—empower more women through their careers.”

This ripple effect—women empowering women—is at the heart of the ELLE-vation Awards.

Recognizing remarkable women

Supported by the Commemorative Partnership Program, the 2025 ELLE-vation Awards ceremony was held in September at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. The event brought together Veterans, families and supporters for an evening of recognition and reflection.

Five women—Heather Constantine, Melanie Lake, Lizette LeBlanc, Eva Martinez and Bianca Vachon—were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the Veteran community. "Melanie [Lake] has changed lives. She has saved lives. In doing so, she has shown us all what it truly means to lead—with heart, with purpose and with unwavering humanity," says her nominator.

The evening concluded with a screening of Out Standing, a film based on the military career of Sandra Perron, founder of the Pepper Pod and Canada’s first female infantry officer. The film served as a powerful reminder of the challenges women have faced in the CAF and their continued strength.

The night was more than a ceremony. It was a celebration of sisterhood and a call to continue lifting one another higher.

Finding belonging beyond the uniform

The Pepper Pod is a non-profit organization based in Chelsea, Quebec. It offers workshops, retreats and outreach programs for women Veterans, soon-to-be Veterans and women spouses. While the ELLE-vation Awards are a key initiative, the organization’s broader mission is to provide a safe and supportive space for women to reconnect and find community after service.

For Cathy, Director of Operations and a 12-year Veteran of the RCAF, the work is deeply personal. She draws from her own journey to help others navigate theirs. “When people leave the military, they sometimes feel lost,” Cathy shares. “It can be challenging to learn who you are when no longer wearing a uniform. You have to find yourself—and your people—again. And this helps.”

Looking ahead

The Pepper Pod plans to continue the ELLE-vation Awards in future years and to grow in a way that reflects the needs of the women they serve. The team remains focused on listening to the community, sharing their stories and growing in a prudent, responsible manner. They are committed to building connections, recognizing the contributions of women Veterans across Canada, and providing a strong, supportive community where women feel seen, heard and valued. “The future is whatever we choose to create at the Pepper Pod,” said Cathy. “We listen to the community and provide opportunities for true, meaningful connections.” To learn more or to get involved, visit the Pepper Pod website.