July 24, 2025 | CREB

Leading with empathy leads to excellence

At the Diamond Gala this June, Mathew received the 2024 REALTOR^® of the Year – (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award for his dedication to CREB^®, the real estate industry and the community.

“This award has nothing to do with sales. It’s about members who inspire others, and Mathew is a worthy recipient due to his outstanding volunteer efforts, professionalism and heart,” says Ellyn Mendham, REALTOR^® of the Year Committee Chair.

For Mathew, receiving this award has been incredibly humbling.

“To be recognized by peers in an industry full of so many dedicated professionals is something I don’t take lightly,” he says. “This also serves as a moment to pause and be grateful for the relationships, clients, and colleagues who’ve made this possible.”

After facing significant health challenges over the years, Mathew says he feels a deep appreciation for the value of life and the importance of giving back.

“Volunteering and supporting charities are my way of paying forward the compassion and care I’ve received. They’ve grounded me, shaped my perspective, and brought a sense of fulfillment that no deal ever could,” he explains. “It’s also connected me more deeply with my community, which I think naturally carries over into how I serve my clients.”

His commitment to CREB^® includes serving on the Critical Illness Benefit Society as Chair, and as a member on the Board Development and Leadership Standing Committee and the Member Standards Task Force.

When it comes to giving back to the community, Mathew is a champion for solving problems that others don’t see or think about.

While volunteering at the Calgary Food Bank, Mathew noticed how, at minus 20 degrees, people picked up their food donations wearing only t-shirts. They were not only struggling to get food but also to secure the right clothing to survive Calgary’s rough winters.

That’s why 10 years ago, Mathew encouraged fellow REALTORS^®, friends and past clients to donate gently used outerwear for those in need and founded Coats for Calgary.

The organization has evolved from a trunk full of coats in its first year to sixty drop-off locations around the city, creating a movement of kindness between Calgarians. In 2024, Coats for Calgary collected 7,000 jackets for those in need.

Recently, Mathew also started an outreach program for young men who, like himself, have experienced open heart surgery.

When it comes to his contributions to the real estate industry, he says he’s proud of building a business centred around trust and genuine relationships.

“I’ve always aimed to leave people better than I found them — whether that’s helping a young family get into their first home, supporting a client through a tough life transition or mentoring newer agents,” Mathew says. “Beyond the individual deals, I hope my biggest contribution is fostering a culture of care and professionalism.”

With many years of industry and volunteering experience, Mathew considers being part of CREB^® as something invaluable.

“The education, resources and ethical standards set the tone for how we all operate,” he says. “On top of that, the networking opportunities have led to lifelong friendships and countless moments of shared learning that have elevated my career.”

For the future, Mathew says he wants to keep growing a business that’s grounded in care and integrity, while also finding more ways to mentor and support the next generation of REALTORS^® and keep volunteering or using his platform to shine a light on causes that matter to him.

For REALTORS^® looking for ways to make a positive impact in their careers and communities, Mathew advises to lead with empathy.

“Remember that at the end of the day, this business is about people and their lives, not just properties. If you prioritize listening and truly understanding your clients’ needs, success will follow. Also, get involved in your community — not just for business, but because it makes you a better, more connected human being.”

When asked what receiving this recognition means to him, Mathew is characteristically gracious.

“I’m grateful. None of this happens on its own — it’s because of amazing clients, supportive colleagues, and a community that’s allowed me to build a life doing something I love. So, thank you.”

The REALTOR^® of the Year - T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award was created in memory of Thomas William Henry Saunders (1903 to 1977), a truly outstanding CREB^® member who inspired others with his professional excellence and commitment to bettering the community.

To learn more about the CREB^® REALTOR^® of the Year – T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award, including a full list of past winners, please click here.

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