Alberta Immigrant Impact Awards

Aamir Jamal

Associate professor and director of global engagement and international partnerships at the Faculty of Social Work, Dr. Jamal is a renowned scholar and change-maker with over 25 years in international social development. His impactful research and community involvement, including leadership roles in the Canadian Association of Social Work Education and local immigrant organizations, advance gender justice, violence prevention and social equity globally and locally.

• Video | Meet Aamir

Alla Mysko-Henke

Alla has been a cornerstone of language learning support in Red Deer since 2016. As a dedicated volunteer coordinator, she has enhanced the lives of adult learners through personalized coaching, curriculum resources, and community-building activities. Her efforts and actions supporting language fluency have significantly empowered newcomers to achieve their professional and personal goals in Alberta.

• Video | Meet Alla

Jacqueline Musabende

Jacqueline is the founder of the Students Center of Excellence, focusing on local and international collaborations to address contemporary challenges. She developed How2BeU, a student program centered on Mental Health and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Known for introducing innovative Work Integrated Learning, Jacqueline partners with global organizations to give students practical experiences that promote academic and professional growth, while connecting local organizations to international opportunities.

• Video | Meet Jacqueline

Sayeh Bayat

Assistant Professor at the Schulich School of Engineering, Dr. Bayat is a leader in biomedical engineering. At 30, she leads the Healthy City Lab, pioneering AI-driven solutions for dementia and elderly care. Her work, backed by over $4.5 million in grants, advances healthcare technology and improves daily living.

• Video | Meet Sayeh

Abby Villanueva

As President and CEO of A&G Associates, Abby embodies resilience and entrepreneurial success. Since immigrating to Canada in 2007 as a nanny, she has transformed to leading a diverse business conglomerate. Her achievements include founding a successful academy during the pandemic and significantly expanding her company's impact in Calgary.

• Video | Meet Abby

Uche Nwadike

Dr. Uche Nwadike, a family physician with over 15 years of experience, has been a significant figure in delivering health care services to Albertans. Since taking over a Calgary practice in 2019, he expanded it into a five-physician clinic and opened a new practice in Cochrane. He has also supported Ukrainian immigrants by providing jobs and developing multilingual resources.

• Video | Meet Uche

Zahid Rafiq

A dedicated physician and community leader, Dr. Rafiq has significantly impacted health care in Alberta. He earned his medical degree from Pakistan in 1990, then moved to South Africa. Since moving from South Africa in 2002, he established several clinics in Calgary, offering job opportunities and training for medical professionals. His leadership extends to supporting international medical graduates, providing health care to vulnerable communities, strengthening primary care in Alberta and founding organizations like MOSAIC Primary Care Network and Medical Doctors International.

• Video | Meet Zahid

Katerina Palova

Manager of the Centre for Immigrant Research at The Immigrant Education Society (TIES), Katerina is a leader in immigrant services and research. Since joining TIES in 2017, she has advanced diversity and inclusion through her participation in conferences and EDI initiatives. Katarina’s commitment to fostering inclusive communities is supported by her work as associate researcher at the University of Manitoba and as an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia.

• Video | Meet Katerina

Régine King

Dr. Régine Uwibereyeho King, associate professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, is a leading expert in equity, racial justice, and community-based mental health. Her research, guided by anticolonial and antiracist perspectives, explores refugee issues, Africentric, and processes of collective healing and reconciliation. Dr. King is a prominent advocate and public speaker on peace, social justice and healthy communities.

• Video | Meet Régine

David Ince

David, a professor at the University of Calgary, is a dedicated anti-racism advocate and key contributor to the Alberta Narcissistic Abuse Survivor Foundation. With a PhD from the University of Calgary in renewable energy and sustainability and extensive experience in anti-racism programming, he has significantly advanced awareness and understanding of racism and its links to the economy and social development through his workshops and presentations.

• Video | Meet David

Luis Carlos Flores Aguilar

Luis Carlos, a senior communications advisor with the Department of Justice Canada, is a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion. Overcoming significant obstacles, he excelled in MacEwan University's Public Relations program, supported Edmonton's Mexican and 2SLGBTQ+ communities and continues to mentor newcomers and champion inclusivity.

• Video | Meet Luis Carlos

Manwar Khan

With over 16 years of public service, Manwar is renowned for his "Do Not Be a Bystander" campaign, which advocates against bullying and promotes public safety. Inspired by a tragic event in 2012, his efforts have led to 44 rallies across Alberta and earned him prestigious awards, including the Governor General of Canada's "Caring Canadian Award."

• Video | Meet Manwar

Marjorie Carmona Newman

Marjorie is a passionate advocate for immigrant communities with over 12 years of experience as a regulated Canadian immigration consultant. A co-founder of the Philippine Business Society of Alberta and founder of the Nasipitnons in Edmonton Association, she is well-known for her dedication to community service. Marjorie has made significant contributions to the Edmonton Filipino community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Video | Meet Marjorie

Patricia Pedraza

CEO and founder of Silver Health & Corporate Consulting Inc. and a Registered Provisional Psychologist, Patricia has 18 years of experience enhancing immigrant mental health in Alberta. Her innovate literacy program, Passport to Integration, and volunteer work with the Calgary Local Immigration Partnership (CLIP) among other nonprofit agencies, highlight her dedication to supporting newcomers, significantly improving their integration and success in Canadian society.

• Video | Meet Patricia

Paula Calderon

As CEO of the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA), Paula has dedicated over 20 years to supporting newcomer integration in Canada. Leading CIWA, Canada’s largest gender-focused immigrant organization, she impacts 16,000 women and families annually, promoting social and economic inclusion. Her career highlights include pioneering ESL programs and enhancing immigrant-serving organizations.

• Video | Meet Paula

Suman Khanal

Suman is an accomplished executive with over two decades of experience empowering newcomers and marginalized communities in Alberta and developing countries. His leadership emphasizes team building, strategic planning, and advancing organizational sustainability while optimizing processes for newcomer integration. As chief program officer at The Immigrant Education Society, Suman oversees programs that support immigrant settlement and socio-economic advancement for all Canadians.

• Video | Meet Suman

Tabitha Phiri

A professional counsellor and Safe Homes Program Coordinator at the Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s Association, Tabitha has dedicated 17 years to supporting immigrant families in Canada. She provides crucial, culturally sensitive services to vulnerable immigrant women, focusing on those affected by domestic violence and residency issues.

• Video | Meet Tabitha

Bing Sheng Chen

Mr. Bing Sheng Chen, President of the Calgary Jiang Zhe Shanghai Association, has enriched Canadian society through his leadership and cultural promotion. A retired professional from Suzhou, China, Mr. Chen organized traditional music performances and innovative online activities during the pandemic, strengthening community bonds and cultural appreciation.

• Video | Meet Bing Sheng

Thomas Bankole

An engineer and community leader, Thomas co-founded the Yoruba Cultural Association of Edmonton in 2017. His dedication to cultural preservation, community growth, and mentorship has had a significant impact in Edmonton. An active volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross, Thomas was mobilized to help in Duncan, BC, during the 2021 flood and also in Prince Edward Island following hurricane Fiona in 2022. He is also a teacher at the Rhema Kids homework Club for elementary school students.

• Video | Meet Thomas

Dothlyn McFarlane

As Associate Director of the Chinook Arch Regional Library System, Dothlyn brings a wealth of experience to her role, having previously transformed services as Head Librarian at Coaldale Public Library. With degrees in librarianship and counseling, she continues to enhance library services and community engagement in Alberta.

• Video | Meet Dothlyn

Ifeatu Sandra Efu

Dr. Efu, Interim President of Keyano College, has been a vital force in Fort McMurray's community development. Since moving to Canada in 2007, she has advanced non-profit initiatives, supported minority voices, and established a scholarship fund to support students of African descent. Her leadership and advocacy have significantly enriched the community and province.

• Video | Meet Ifeatu

Sabine Nasse

A dedicated community leader and finance manager at the Society of Brooks Community Adult Learning Council, Sabine has been instrumental in enhancing local services and volunteer efforts in Bassano. With a rich background in finance and administration, she has been a vital part of recreation facility upgrades, support for local seniors, health care and businesses.

• Video | Meet Sabine

Dahabo Ibrahim

A grade 12 student at McNally High School, Dahabo has made a significant impact through her food security initiatives and cafeteria improvements. Known for her dedication and leadership, she is an active volunteer, known for warmly welcoming newcomers and international students and fostering a supportive school environment.

• Video | Meet Dahabo

Marie-Blessing Tchansseu

Marie-Blessing, a Grade 12 student at McNally High School, has made notable contributions through her food security initiatives and cafeteria improvements. Her dedication extends to scorekeeping, performing in the symphonic band, and excelling in rugby, making her a standout and well-rounded student.

Tracey Akande

As a dedicated student at Bishop David Motiuk School before moving to Archbishop MacDonald High School, Tracey has excelled as an active leader in the Mental Health Champions program. Since junior high, she has spearheaded initiatives to support mental health and attended the recent Symposium, consistently contributing to positive change in her school community.

• Video | Meet Tracey

Treasure Akande

A standout student at Bishop David Motiuk Catholic Elementary/Junior High School before moving to Archbishop MacDonald High School, Treasure excels academically and inspires her peers. Active in the School Leadership Team and Mental Health Club, she proactively improves school life, frequently proposing innovative ideas to enhance the community.

• Video | Meet Treasure

Ayol Deng

Ayol, a Broadcast Media student at Mount Royal University, is a dynamic community leader and lead ambassador for the Realize Your Potential Youth Society (RYP). His innovative storytelling and leadership in the RYP NewLife Program© and Youth Summit have empowered Black youth and reshaped community engagement in Alberta.

• Video | Meet Ayol

Nidhin Sam

Dr. Nidhin Sam, a Doctor of Pharmacy and recent immigrant, has swiftly made a significant impact in Edmonton. As an instructor and now program manager, he has excelled in helping students with their education, overcome barriers and secure employment. His innovative approach and dedication make him a standout asset to the community and province.

• Video | Meet Nidhin

Parul Kanwar

A dedicated advocate for social justice, Parul champions 2SLGBTQ+  rights, gender equality, and diversity. Active with Edmonton Youth Justice Society and Pivot with QHRC, she amplifies BIPOC voices and supports marginalized communities through research, policy work, and volunteer efforts.

Zainab Khan

A PhD student in Neuroscience at the University of Calgary, Zainab is a dedicated young leader and community advocate. Honored with the Women of Distinction Award in 2023, she excels in advocating for women empowerment initiatives and co-founded TAKMIL, enhancing education for over 5,000 children in Pakistan.

• Video | Meet Zainab

Elena Esina

Elena Esina is the director of operations of Shift: The Project to End Domestic Violence in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary and a co-founder of the social enterprise Shift2Learn. Since immigrating to Canada in 2009, she has empowered immigrant women by founding a work-integrated learning hub, co-authoring the bestselling book Landed, and through ongoing advocacy and volunteer work, improving lives and fostering community well-being.

• Video | Meet Elena

Halima Ali

As Executive Director of the Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s Association (CAIWA), Halima has led impactful initiatives supporting immigrant women and families since 2008. Under her visionary leadership, CAIWA has introduced and expanded vital community-based initiatives to support literacy needs and employment programs for newcomers. Her dedication and innovation have greatly enhanced community settlement, integration and well-being.

• Video | Meet Halima

Iftu Abdishakur Abdalla

Iftu, founder and president of the Urji Women Support Association of Edmonton, has profoundly impacted newcomer families by providing furniture, mental health support, and community-building activities. Originally from Ethiopia, her dedication to service has enhanced the lives of many immigrants in Edmonton and beyond.

• Video | Meet Iftu

Latifa Majidi

First arriving in Canada as refugee from Afghanistan in 2022, Latifa is a co-founder of the Afghan Canadian Women for Global Corporation (ACWGC), which supports Afghan women and families in Calgary. Through ACWGC, she offers crucial literacy, language training, and employment support, facilitating the resettlement and integration of vulnerable newcomers.

• Video | Meet Latifa

Yan Xie

Yan, founder of CMH News and president of the Tianjin Association in Western Canada, is a prominent journalist and community leader. Since 2020, she has connected communities and governments, bridging Canada and China. Her media company, reaching over 1 million subscribers, and her active role in elections highlight her significant impact.

• Video | Meet Yan

Elisabeth Richardson

An assistant professor of cellular and molecular biology at Mount Royal University, Elizabeth’s innovative reclamation research in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region has been provincially and federally recognised.

Gideon Christian

A lawyer and law professor at the University of Calgary, Gideon is the creator of eLitigation, an innovative course to help law students conduct litigation virtually. The idea was driven by courthouse closures during the pandemic and was the first of its kind in any law school in Canada.

Josephine Naicker

Josephine’s professional experience spans the public and private sectors, working in academia, government, multinational corporations and the United Nations. She is also one of only 7 Canadian industry experts selected to be part of an international team tasked with developing the industry's first Global Cloud Audit Credential.

Kene Ilochonwu

Kene exemplifies leadership, achievement and positive change in the legal profession. He was elected first Black Bencher in the Alberta’s Law Society’s 113-year history, and the youngest Alberta called lawyer elected to the Bencher Table. He is also a passionate volunteer and advocate for diversity.

Liza Choi

Liza, an associate professor at Mount Royal University, has made a significant mark as an educator and advocate for students of English as an additional language and BIPOC. She also created and championed a successful English as additional language program, supporting nursing students through workshops, networking and leadership development.

Trushar Patel

Trushar is an associate professor and biomedical researcher at the University of Lethbridge. His work is helping to develop targeted therapies for a range of viral infections, including Hepatitis B and COVID-19.

Zahra Abbasi

Zahra is assistant professor of Electrical and Software Engineering at the University of Calgary. Her research lab has developed a wide range of novel sensing technologies, including oil and gas harsh environment sensing, a non-invasive glucose monitoring device, and an in-car system to identify high risk driving behaviours.

Guillermo Aceytuno

Through his company OnSite Auto, entrepreneur Guillermo has changed the way customers engage with automotive maintenance. His innovative approach to solving customer problems, and his mentoring of apprentice mechanics, has proven him to be a leader in accessibility and inclusivity in Lethbridge’s business community.

Harriet Tinka

Harriet's 'EmpoweredMe School Program' helps empower Alberta’s youth. Run in schools across Alberta, her program bridges the gap between school and communities and helps youth build essential life and personal development skills, build self-esteem and better equips them to navigate life’s challenges.

Popoola Akande

Popoola is an entrepreneur and consultant in banking and finance. An advocate for entrepreneurial development and newcomer integration, he was recently nominated for Canada’s Volunteer Awards in the Business Leader category.

Benazir Ahmed

Benazir has made significant contributions in the field of childcare with an emphasis on Islamic values and diversity. She is committed to supporting new immigrants and has achieved great success for newcomers entering the workforce by providing mentorship, guidance and training.

Charles Osuji

Charles Osuji is a lawyer and CEO of Calgary’s Osuji & Smith law firm, one of Canada’s largest Black-owned law firms. He is also founder and director of Foot-in-the-Door initiative, which supports and mentors young law students, including internationally trained and Black students.

Robert Suraki Watum

Robert is project coordinator at the Alliance Jeunesse-Famille de l’Alberta Society. He coordinates several integration programs such as 'Fiesta Musica', which brings together musicians from many communities including Indigenous Peoples, and people of African and Latino descent, to share and co-create new music together.

Avininder Aulakh

A psychiatrist and addiction specialist, Dr. Aulakh works to improve addictions and mental health supports in Alberta’s South Asian community. He also facilitated a project to provide accessible addiction and mental health support in a culturally respectful way to reduce the stigma of addictions.

Larisa Hayduk

A former English language teacher, Larisa volunteers with language training organizations to help newcomers develop English skills. In her “day job” at MacEwan University’s Ukrainian Resource and Development Centre, she has helped thousands of Ukraine evacuees arriving in Alberta.

Milton Ortega

Milton is a leader in the settlement and integration sector and an advocate for vulnerable populations. He has helped drive policies to improve newcomers lives, and currently serves as chief operating officer at Accessible Housing, where he provides programs and services for people with limited mobility.

Stephen Tsang

During Stephen’s tenure with Edmonton’s Chinese Bilingual Program, student enrollment soared and an additional site was opened. He actively shares Chinese culture and language with the broader community, and has inspired many students to volunteer, lead and perform for diverse multicultural and inter-generational communities.

Sunil Phool

Sunil is devoted to making positive changes in his community. For him, diversity, equity and inclusion, culture, family and friendship underpin his community-building passion. He is an active member in his community, arranging podcasts, panel discussions and weekly food hamper drives through a non-profit he founded.

Peggy Yu

Peggy puts her passion for arts and culture into action through her role as Edmonton Beijing Opera Association president. With over 40 years as a Doctor of traditional Chinese Medicine specializing in acupuncture, she has also shared her passion for health and healing with the community.

Rajiv Ranjan

Founder of the Alberta Hindi Association and Hindi School, Rajiv has taught the Hindi language for over 25 years. A tireless volunteer for over 40 years, he has held leadership positions in many Edmonton organizations. Rajiv has been a mentor, counsellor and advisor for troubled youth groups and organized youth career fairs and workshops.

Thomas Mathew

Thomas supports newcomers settling in Alberta by helping them in find accommodation, furniture, register for school and find work. Thomas’ passion for house building led him to take on the challenge of training others how to renovate homes, including renovating an old house from the ground up.

Xiaoying (Mary) Xu

Mary’s dedication and leadership in preserving and promoting traditional Chinese apparel, fostering cross-cultural understanding and nurturing young talent is exemplary. Also being recognized is her effort to promote women's roles in multicultural exchange.

Clement Esene

Clement created a program to help underrepresented and newcomer entrepreneurs overcome socio-economic barriers. In 2020, he created the BIPOC Foundation to create entrepreneurship opportunities for diverse communities, foster economic empowerment, and financial inclusion and representation.

Dharmesh Goradia

Dharmesh established the Hindu Cultural Society of Central Alberta to foster a space where the East Indian community could celebrate their culture, build connections and socialize. His approach of combining cultural celebrations with skills development workshops, equips individuals with the tools needed for success in their new environment.

Ted (Seon Koo) Lee

An inspiring presence in his community of Bashaw, Ted advocates for supports and donates to local charities, the food bank, seniors' groups, 4-H, town beautification projects and special events. In so doing, he makes Bashaw a welcoming and inclusive place to live and work.

Muhammad Ibrahim Qasim

Muhammad is an active volunteer working for the betterment of disenfranchished people, as well as a prominent leader in his high school. By embodying the principles of giving back, equity and fairness, he leads by example and is an inspiration to his peers.

Mustafa Abdiaziz Osman

Mustafa’s strong work ethic and determination to succeed is an inspiration to all who know him. An exemplary young leader, he volunteers with Edmonton Police Service and in his community. When he finishes school, he wants to join the Canadian Armed Forces, before following his dream of becoming a police officer.

Chand Gul

As a clinical psychologist and community developer, Chand has made significant contributions to the community by helping immigrant women integrate into Alberta life. Her participation in grassroots organizations has had a positive impact by advocating for and addressing the needs of marginalized communities.

Marija Pavkovic Tovissi

Marija is the definition of a community builder as CEO and co-founder of MaKami College. The college helps newcomers to achieve their dreams for a better life and new career. The small college has grown to employ hundreds of people and help thousands of students annually.

Young In Kim

Young is a recognized promoter of multicultural activity and vibrancy in her community. She started the 100% volunteer-driven Korean Social Services Centre that has developed and delivered many programs to support community members – from new arrivals to seniors – and has provided cultural and multiculturalism events to promote anti-racism to rave reviews.

Anastasiya Khoma

Anastasiya is a dedicated volunteer who has worked with multiple community organizations. Since the invasion of Ukraine, she has worked tirelessly to support Ukrainian newcomers arriving in Alberta, helped fundraising efforts and travelled overseas to deliver much needed medical supplies.