Alberta Immigrant Impact Awards

Kimoya Edwards is an athlete, scholar, and community advocate whose accomplishments in academics, sport, and leadership inspire others to succeed. A graduate of the University of Lethbridge, she excelled as a national-level athlete while championing student and community initiatives. Through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership, Kimoya creates opportunities for youth and emerging leaders.

Amandeep Singh Sidhu is a cultural leader, educator, and founder of Young Bhangra, dedicated to preserving and celebrating Punjabi culture in Alberta. Through performances, workshops, and mentorship, he helps young people build confidence, cultural pride, and leadership skills. His work strengthens cultural understanding and brings communities together through the arts.

Dr. Samer Adeeb is an engineering educator, researcher, and academic leader whose work has advanced engineering education and research across Alberta. A Professor and Chair at the University of Alberta, he has developed innovative learning tools, led internationally recognized research, and mentored future engineers. Through leadership, education, and innovation, he has strengthened Alberta’s engineering profession and expanded access to high-quality learning.

Dr. Gerlinde A. S. Metz is a neuroscientist, researcher, and community leader whose groundbreaking work has enhanced Alberta’s global reputation for scientific excellence. A Professor at the University of Lethbridge, she leads internationally recognized research on health, stress, and resilience. Through innovation, mentorship, and global collaboration, she has strengthened Alberta’s research capacity and inspired future generations of scientists.

Shahid Qureshi is a business leader, governance expert, and community advocate with international expertise in finance, risk management, and corporate governance. A Chartered Professional Accountant and trusted advisor, he has supported organizations across sectors while championing newcomer success. Through leadership, mentorship, and volunteer service, Shahid has advanced inclusive leadership and strengthened Alberta’s business and nonprofit communities.

Dr. Renate Weller is a veterinary academic, clinician, and educator whose leadership has strengthened veterinary medicine in Alberta. As Dean of the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, she has expanded educational opportunities, advanced research, and improved access to animal care. Through innovation and academic excellence, Renate is helping shape the future of veterinary education and animal health.

Monika Gupta is an entrepreneur, health-care leader, and educator whose businesses have created jobs and expanded access to health care and education across Alberta. As Founder and CEO of CGA Medical Imaging and MCG Career College, she combines business success with community impact. Through mentorship, scholarships, and newcomer support, Monika empowers Albertans to achieve their goals and build brighter futures.

Arshad Mahmood is a pharmacist, entrepreneur, and community leader dedicated to improving access to health care in Alberta. Through his pharmacy and travel clinic businesses, he has expanded patient-centred care while creating employment opportunities. A committed mentor and volunteer, Arshad supports newcomers, youth, and families, strengthening both health outcomes and community well-being.

Aminat Popoola is a professional engineer, entrepreneur, and mentor whose businesses have contributed to Alberta’s infrastructure and transportation sectors. As Founder and President of RHAY Engineering and RHAY Logistics, she has created hundreds of jobs and supported economic growth. Through mentorship and community leadership, Aminat empowers newcomers and aspiring professionals to succeed.

Shakeel Ahmed is a publisher, volunteer, translator, and advocate whose decades of service have strengthened newcomer communities across Alberta. As the founder of one of Alberta’s bilingual English-Urdu newspapers, he has helped immigrants access information, resources, and opportunities. Through volunteerism, outreach, and community leadership, Shakeel fosters inclusion, civic engagement, and belonging.

Vadym Bukatko is a community leader and newcomer advocate whose initiatives have supported thousands of immigrants across Canada. As founder of the largest online community for Ukrainian newcomers in Canada, he helps families access information, services, and connections. Through innovation, volunteerism, and civic engagement, Vadym strengthens communities and helps newcomers build successful lives.

Major Singh Dhaliwal is a dedicated volunteer and community leader committed to serving seniors and newcomers in Alberta. Through free tax clinics, advocacy, and practical support, he helps individuals access essential services and benefits. His longstanding leadership and commitment to community service have strengthened support networks and fostered greater inclusion for immigrant families.

Aleksandr Gubskiy is an engineer, entrepreneur, photographer, and volunteer who enriches Alberta’s multicultural communities through creativity and service. He has supported cultural initiatives, mentored robotics students, and promoted Alberta’s natural beauty through his photography. Through volunteer leadership and community engagement, Aleksandr inspires innovation, cultural pride, and connection.

Rishi Kumar, widely known as Rishi Nagar, is a journalist, broadcaster, educator, and community leader who has empowered multicultural communities across Alberta. As News Director and host at RED FM Calgary, he connects newcomers with vital information and services. Through media, advocacy, and public engagement, Rishi strengthens civic participation and community inclusion.

Milica Opacic is a community leader, advocate, and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Serbia in Alberta. Through volunteer service and multicultural engagement, she supports newcomers, women, and youth while fostering collaboration across communities. Her leadership promotes inclusion, belonging, and cross-cultural understanding, helping strengthen Alberta’s diverse social fabric.

Dr. Jean Walrond is an educator, health equity advocate, and community leader whose work has transformed awareness and support for individuals living with sickle cell disease. Through decades of advocacy, research, and volunteer leadership, she has improved access to resources and care for families across Alberta. Her dedication continues to advance inclusion, health equity, and community well-being.

Amina Younas is a criminal defence lawyer, mentor, and advocate committed to improving access to justice for Albertans. Providing multilingual and culturally informed legal services, she helps newcomers and marginalized individuals navigate complex legal systems. Through mentorship and professional leadership, Amina supports greater diversity and inclusion within Alberta’s legal community.

Dr. Nonsikelelo Mathe is a health scientist, entrepreneur, and advocate advancing health equity and inclusion across Alberta. As Scientific Director of the Health Equity and Systems Transformation portfolio at the University of Calgary and co-leader of Gateway Holistic Care Group, she creates opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Through compassionate leadership, she fosters workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Deborah 'Debbie' Mpofu is a health-care professional, educator, and pioneering midwife whose leadership transformed maternity care in northern Alberta. By establishing Fort McMurray’s first permanent midwifery practice, she expanded access to family-centred care and supported future health-care professionals. Through service and innovation, Debbie has strengthened health outcomes and community well-being.

Kamal Khatiwada is a social worker, scholar, and community leader dedicated to supporting newcomers, refugees, and vulnerable populations. A PhD candidate at the University of Calgary, he creates culturally responsive programs that promote mental health, inclusion, and community connection. Through advocacy, mentorship, and service, Kamal empowers individuals to overcome barriers and thrive.