Canadian Immigrant magazine, in partnership with RBC, has kicked off the voting for the second annual Top 25 Canadian Immigrants awards.

Canadians can go online at www.canadianimmigrant.ca/top25 until Apr 16, 2010, to cast their vote for their favourite candidate among the 75 finalists, who represent diverse ethnic communities and cultures across Canada.

Voters can select up to three nominees at a time. The top 25 immigrants thus voted in will be feted in May.

All voters are automatically entered to win one of two $500 Visa gift cards issued by RBC. Full contest rules are available at www.CanadianImmigrant.ca

More than 10,000 Canadians voted in last year's inaugural awards program. Among the winners were Governor General Michaelle Jean and Oscar-nominated filmmaker Deepa Mehta.

The program, which is also supported by Rogers Wireless, serves to uncover and celebrate the inspiring stories and remarkable achievements of Canadian immigrants from all walks of life who strive to make this country a better place.

"We want to shine a spotlight on those unsung heroes who have quietly helped build Canada," said Nick Noorani, founder and publisher of Canadian Immigrant. "We want the Top 25 winners' stories to inspire other immigrants to make their dreams a reality, while at the same time make Canada a country we can all be proud of."

The awards program was launched in November 2009 with a call-for-nominations phase that garnered hundreds of submissions over a three-month period.

"These awards are a great opportunity for the community to recognize all new Canadians who have contributed to this country's success," said Camon Mak, director of RBC Multicultural Markets. "We encourage Canadians to go online and vote for their top Canadian immigrant."

The Top 25 Canadian Immigrants of 2010 will be announced in May. They will receive a commemorative plaque and a $500 donation from RBC toward an authorized Canadian charity of their choice.