2026 CCA Awards - september 26, 2026
The 2nd annual CCA Awards will be held September 26, 2026 at the beautiful City Playhouse Theatre in Vaughan, ON. It will be an evening of connection and networking with other artists as well as industry professionals. Stay tuned to see 2026 nominees!
The CCA Awards are designed to honour artists and industry professionals through recognition ceremonies and live performances aimed at fostering collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth.
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2026 Excellence Award Winners
Creative Vision Excellence Award
Sponsored by
Soli Deo Gloria School of Dance and the Arts exemplify creative vision through its innovative integration of artistic excellence, faith-based education, and community impact. Established with a bold mission to reclaim the arts as a meaningful expression of worship and purpose, the school has created a transformative learning environment where students are empowered to develop their talents while growing in character, confidence, and faith.
What distinguishes Soli Deo Gloria is its unique approach to arts education. By seamlessly weaving biblical values into dance, music, drama, and performance training, the school challenges traditional models of arts instruction and offers a holistic experience that nurtures both artistic achievement and personal development. Students are encouraged to pursue excellence, embrace creativity, and use their gifts to positively influence the world around them.
Under visionary leadership, Soli Deo Gloria has cultivated a vibrant and inclusive community that inspires students of all ages to discover their potential and express themselves with authenticity and purpose. Its programs foster discipline, collaboration, and innovation while providing opportunities for meaningful artistic expression that reflects the school’s core values.
The school’s unwavering commitment to excellence, its pioneering vision for faith-integrated arts education, and its lasting impact on students and families make Soli Deo Gloria School of Dance and the Arts a truly deserving recipient of the CCA Creative Vision Excellence Award. Through creativity, leadership, and purpose-driven education, the school continues to inspire the next generation of artists and leaders.
The Creative Vision Excellence Award was established to recognize organizations that demonstrate exceptional innovation, imagination, and leadership in advancing their mission. This award celebrates those who challenge conventional thinking, inspire meaningful change, and create lasting impact through visionary ideas and purposeful action.
Lifetime Achievement Excellence Award
Sharon Riley is a celebrated gospel artist, educator, mentor, and cultural pioneer whose remarkable contributions to music and community leadership have left an enduring legacy. A gifted vocalist from an early age, she earned recognition as a two-time winner of the Kiwanis Music Competition in 1977 and 1978. Formally trained in Early Childhood Education and with more than a decade of jazz and opera vocal studies, Sharon combined artistic excellence with a passion for nurturing others.
In 1992, alongside Robert Picart and Sharon McLeod, she co-founded Faith Chorale, a dynamic and diverse ensemble dedicated to inspiring young people to serve through music and faith. Drawing members from Canada, the Caribbean, England, and South America, the group created a distinctive sound that blended urban contemporary gospel, traditional hymns, ballads, and African musical influences.
Under Sharon’s visionary leadership, Faith Chorale achieved national and international acclaim, performing at prestigious events and appearing on major television productions. The group won the JUNO Award for Best Gospel Album in 1999 and made history as Canada’s first gospel ensemble to secure an international recording contract with their acclaimed album Life Is. Sharon also contributed Grammy-nominated arrangements to the Blues Brothers 2000 soundtrack. Through her artistry, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Sharon Riley has inspired generations and helped shape the landscape of Canadian gospel music. We are pleased to announce Sharon Riley as the recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Excellence Award.
Artist in the Marketplace Excellence Award
Sponsored by
Kevin Pauls is a celebrated Canadian gospel artist whose powerhouse vocals and soulful passion have made him a standout in Christian music. Often described as a “blue-eyed soul” artist, Kevin brings heartfelt emotion and authenticity to every performance, connecting deeply with audiences across both gospel and mainstream music.
Beyond gospel music, Kevin showcases his versatility through The Undercovers, a musical project honoring legendary artists such as Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson. His ability to move seamlessly between faith-based and secular music highlights both his artistry and broad appeal.
Kevin is also a familiar face with the renowned Gaither Gospel Series, regularly appearing alongside some of gospel music’s most respected artists. His performances are featured on Gaither concert DVDs viewed by audiences around the world, further establishing him as a respected and influential voice in gospel music today.
In 2023, Kevin signed with Greenhill Music Label out of Nashville, owned by Gaither Music Group, and currently hosts Song Circle, now entering its third season on YES TV.
Whether performing live, touring with The Undercovers, appearing with the Gaither Gospel Series, or leading audiences through inspiring gospel concerts, Kevin consistently brings excellence, authenticity, and passion to every stage he steps on.
For his outstanding impact in both faith-based and mainstream music, Kevin Pauls is the recipient of the 2026 Artist in the Marketplace Excellence Award.
The 2026 Artist in the Marketplace Excellence Award honours artists who boldly live out their faith in both Christian and secular spaces. This award recognizes individuals who use their gifts, influence, and platform to reflect integrity, inspire others, and share the message of hope through their artistry and everyday impact. Whether on stage, or within the community, these artists demonstrate excellence while remaining grounded in their faith and values.
Carl & Frances Martin Business Excellence Award
Sponsored by
Larry Law is a visionary entrepreneur, community leader, and man of faith whose impact reaches far beyond the hospitality industry. As the founder behind Living Water Resort & Spa and Living Stone Golf Resort, Larry has transformed what was once a modest 70-room motel into one of Ontario’s most respected resort destinations. Today, the resort features two hotels with 442 rooms, an 18-hole championship golf course, restaurants, swimming pools, a marina, and a full-service spa, creating a destination that welcomes families, travelers, and the local community alike.
What truly sets Larry apart is his belief that business should serve people, not just profit. In an industry often defined by transactional relationships, he has built a culture rooted in compassion, dignity, and connection. Staff and guests alike describe the resort as a place that feels more like family than a corporation.
Larry’s commitment to cultural awareness and community support is woven throughout the resort experience. Indigenous history and the story of Collingwood are thoughtfully displayed throughout the property, helping educate guests while honouring the generations who shaped the region. Local artists are also celebrated, with artwork showcased throughout the resort and proceeds supporting the Collingwood Art Foundation. African stone sculptures in the lobby further reflect Larry’s heart for global unity and community.
Guided by his Christian faith, Larry believes in personally serving others. Each Christmas, he partners with 12 local churches to provide free meals for those in need, volunteering alongside his staff to serve and dine with guests. Small but meaningful details, such as biblical verses placed beneath artwork in every room, continue to inspire and encourage visitors from around the world.
Through faith, vision, and humility, Larry Law has created more than a resort—he has created a legacy of service, hope, and community. This is why we honour Larry as the inaugural Carl & Frances Martin Business in Excellence Award.
Carl & Frances Martin Business Excellence Award – This award honours businesses and owners who achieve success not only through business growth, but also through faith-based initiatives and community impact.
Carl & Frances Martin founded Martin’s Bus Service in 1947, growing the company alongside their son Paul (and Shirley Martin), and granddaughter Lisa Payne-Martin (and Sean), into the largest independent school bus operators in Ontario. What began with one vehicle grew to a fleet of over 250 vehicles and more than 235 employees.
Known for sharing the company’s success with others in the community, including building or buying churches, the Martin family’s legacy of generosity and service continues to inspire this award, recognizing business leaders who carry those same values today.
2026 CCA Nominees
Canadian Songwriter of the Year
Jesus Wins – Eric Fisher
All The Money In The World – Scott Jackson & Nicole Duquette
Nothing Can Separate – Jennifer Lynn, Derek Ellioston, Brandon Vandendool & Adam Fry
Light That Shines – Daniel Richter & Brian Howes
Lord You Knit Me – Stan Rodrigo & Lovina Rodrigo
I Will Praise – David Bracken
I Have A Superpower – Heather Platania
His Name (Jesus) – Roxanne
Dear God – Daniel Richter
I Am With You Always – Stan Rodrigo
Canadian CCM / Pop Song of the Year
Sponsored by: Life 100.3 Ontario’s Christian Superstation
Chelsea Amber – Stay In My Lane
Daniel Richter – Dear God
David Bracken – I Will Praise
The 8th Line – All The Money In The World
Brant Pethick – With You
Eric Fisher – Jesus Wins
FAC Music – Sing Out
Roxanne – Breathe
Daniel Richter – Light That Shines
Celestial Quartet – Lord You Knit Me
Canadian Praise & Worship Song of the Year
FAC Music – Respond
David Bracken – I Will Praise
Eric Fisher – Jesus Wins
Daniel Richter – Jesus Be The Centre
Roxanne – Holy
Kevin Adams & Voices of Praise ft. Rosie Cooke – Bless The Lord
Yemisi – Good To Me
Jennifer Lynn – Nothing Can Separate
Nelly K – Holy
Roxanne & Cheryl Dunn – I Surrender
Canadian Music Video of the Year
Nelly K – You Are Lord
FAC Music – Respond
Long Live The King – All Or Nothing
David Bracken – I Will Praise
Yemisi – Good To Me
Celestial Quartet – I Am With You Always
Nelly K – Excellent God
Zolah – Malika
Ant Lee – Light Up The City
Yemisi – Praise Medley
CCM / Pop Song of the Year
Barbara Joy – A Mother’s Heart
Howard Gripp – Rewrote My Story
Katie Williams – Waiting
Roxanne – Falling
New Journey – Nothing Greater Than Grace
Christmas Song of the Year
Hyacinth Charles – Celebrating Christmas
Dale Boreland – Holy Christmas
Celestial Quartet – New Born King
Barbara Joy & Matt Lefait – We Three Kings
Bob Joyce – Family Christmas
Country / Southern Gospel Song of the Year
New Journey – All Of My Help
Roxanne – Gonna Praise
Katie Williams – Waiting
Dante Plata – The Old Pickup Truck
New Journey – There Is A God
Folk / Inspirational / Instrumental Song of the Year
Katie Williams – Waiting
Thonia – Wild Fire
Roxanne – Breathe
New Journey – I’m Gonna Make It
Nando Speranza & Andre Leblanc – The Eternal Book Of Life
Naija / Caribbean Song of the Year
Nelly K – Excellent God
Pamela Albert – You Are Holy
Yemisi – Good To Me
Nelly K – You Are Lord
Yemisi – Praise Medley
Rap / Hip Hop Song of the Year
Vasos – Highest Heights
Ant Lee – Light Up The City
Norine Gallimore – You Got This
Y Shady – God On My Side
Naol – Look Up To You
Rock Song of the Year
The 8th Line – Get Your Fire Back
Long Live The King – All Or Nothing
Dale Boreland – Breaking The Chains
Rust Iron Green – Hungry For Change
The 8th Line – When To Quit
Urban / R&B / Soul Song of the Year
Naffymar – Be Thou Removed
Thonia – Rebound
Zolah – Makila
Kaye Marie – Lives In You
Nelly K – Rain
