Abrigo’s Marilia dos Santos Recognized for her Career Achievements
TORONTO, July 7, 2025 – WomanACT, a charitable organization with a membership of organizations and individuals working to end violence against women through system change, has announced that long-time Abrigo Centre gender-based violence counsellor and seniors’ program coordinator Marilia dos Santos has won their 2025 Innovation in Action Award.
In a release, WomanACT stated “For over two decades, Marilia has been a quiet but mighty force in the gender-based violence (GBV) sector, leading with deep cultural wisdom, unwavering compassion, and a fierce dedication to community-rooted change. Throughout her time at Abrigo she broke grounds as a female facilitator in Men in Transition program to building one of the city’s most impactful seniors’ hubs, Marilia’s legacy is one of bold creativity and survivor- centered practices.
“Whether through trauma-informed counselling, culturally relevant programming, or theatre projects that gave voice to hidden stories of elder abuse, Marilia consistently met people where they were, offering connection, safety, and hope. Now retiring (in September), she leaves behind a model of innovation built on dignity, mutual support, and belonging. A true champion of equity and resilience, Marilia’s impact will be felt for generations to come.”
“This is an extraordinary and well-deserved honour,” says Paula De Jesus, Abrigo’s Co- Executive Director, Programs & Operations. “Marilia has strengthened our services and our community. She has never lost sight of the individual: connecting with the woman sitting quietly, the man questioning his beliefs, the senior seeking safety and understanding. Marilia has always been here, supporting, advocating, strengthening and building community. She leaves our agency and community stronger, more compassionate, and forever changed.”
Marilia dos Santos will be honoured at WomanACT’s Soul of a Warrior Awards Gala on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at CIBC Square, 6 th Floor, 81 Bay Street, Toronto. The event runs from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more information please visit: https://womanact.ca/get- involved/soul-of-a-warrior-gala/