The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) has named Sharon Bajer as the inaugural recipient of the ACTRA Visionary Award.

Bajer (pictured) is the former president of ACTRA Manitoba, and was the first certified intimacy coordinator in Winnipeg. Across more than 30 years in the film, television and theatre industries, Bajer has worked on more than 75 productions.

The award, originally called the ACTRA National Woman of the Year Award, was introduced in 2010. It recognizes a cis woman, trans woman or non-binary person of notable acting presence who has made significant contributions to advancing gender equity and diversity within ACTRA, the recorded media industry and society. In 2024, the winner was actor, writer, director and producer Jennifer Podemski.

“[Bajer] has consistently championed safety, creativity and inclusivity in her work and within our industry,” said ACTRA president Eleanor Noble in a statement. “From her leadership as president of ACTRA Manitoba to her pioneering contributions within the arts, Bajer is a trailblazer who is truly deserving of this honor and recognition.”

The ACTRA Visionary Award will be announced annually on the second Wednesday in April. Additional details on an event honouring Bajer will be shared in the coming months.

Image courtesy of the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists