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- Markus Chambers is a dedicated community leader and City Councillor for St. Norbert-Seine River, known for his strong advocacy for diversity, inclusion, and community safety. He has been actively involved in various initiatives, including his significant contributions to the Provincial Nominee Program, which helps Manitoba’s businesses recruit internationally trained workers.
- Dr. Habtu Demsas, a compassionate medical doctor with nearly 45 years of experience, has dedicated 35 years to the Selkirk Medical Centre, receiving numerous awards for his contributions, including the 2024 Physician Emeritus Award and the 2009 Jack Armstrong Humanitarian Award, while also supporting the Eritrean community and empowering newcomers through education and guidance.
- Chief Mrs. Lola Omoniyi: Chief Mrs. Lola Julianah Omoniyi founded Lola’s Beauty Gallery & Supplies. Winnipeg’s go-to place for all things beauty and hair extensions, 35years ago in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada.
- Hon. Jamie Moses Minister of Economic Development, Investment and Trade and Natural Resources: Jamie Moses, the MLA for St. Vital and Minister of Economic Development, Investment and Trade, is a dedicated supporter of immigrants and cultural initiatives in Manitoba, advocating for anti-racism training and recognizing Emancipation Day to foster inclusivity and promote safer communities for all.
- Deputy Mayor Janice Luke’s city councilor for Waverley West: Janice Lukes, a dedicated Winnipeg City Councillor and lifelong advocate for diverse communities, has demonstrated her commitment to supporting immigrants and cultural initiatives through her extensive work in infrastructure, community development, and policies that enhance the quality of life for residents from over 120 countries.
- Shana Goodridge: Shana Goodridge, the founder of the Peg City Steppers running and walking club in Winnipeg, has fostered a vibrant community of over 70 active members who meet twice a week, creating an inclusive environment that brings together individuals of all ages and sizes.
- Dr. Adejobi Adeloye: Dr. Adejobi Adeloye is a seasoned leader, public health physician, and consultant with 20 years’ experience, known for pioneering healthcare, capacity-building, and business initiatives across Canada and Africa.
- Ren and Hyacinth Dacosta: Ren and Hyacinth Dacosta are dedicated community activists who empower newcomers from the Caribbean and Africa in Manitoba by advocating for job opportunities that recognize their skills and professional training, significantly enhancing local community integration and economic growth.
- Akeem Adebisi: Akeem Adebisi, founder of Ajopro, an author and innovator, is a visionary entrepreneur using tech-driven solutions to empower communities, especially immigrants. His platform, Ajopro, supports financial planning, while Bota, his upcoming venture, enables service exchanges to boost small businesses.
- Tsion Abera, Tsion Abera, a passionate advocate for science and leadership, has been involved in various initiatives since Grade 3, including participating in science fairs, attending programs like Girls in Science and IBM STEAM Summer Camp, and volunteering at the Manitoba Museum’s Science Gallery to inspire younger students; in 2024, she earned a Silver Medal at the Bison Regional Science Fair, received a scholarship for the SHAD program, and founded her high school debate club, all while championing women’s representation in STEM.
- Tope Elemeje: Tope Abraham Elemeje, CEO of ChessKings Car Rental Inc., leverages over 20 years of expertise in data analytics and business solutions. With a background in IoT and revenue assurance, he’s now transforming car rentals through technology-driven, personalized services, positioning ChessKings as an industry leader.
- Evangelist Ebenezer Fatimehin: Evangelist Ebenezer Adesola Fatimehin is the National President of Christian Drama Ministers Association of Canada, highly skilled drama minister, writer, and movie director who has played the lead character in numerous evangelical films.
- Bunmi Aregbesola: Bunmi Aregbesola is a dedicated community supporter and advocate for socioeconomic advancement within Black communities and other visible minorities, actively participating in organizations such as ACOMI, NAMI, the Police Action Coalition, Ekitikete Inc. and the Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities, contributing to the election of MLA Heather Stefanson as the province’s first female Premier, and playing a pivotal role in electoral successes, including the election of MLA Obby Khan.
- Olubunmi Agbaje: Olubunmi Biobaku-Agbaje: founder of Nigerians in Winnipeg and coordinator of its WhatsApp community, spearheads charitable efforts within the group while celebrating Nigerian culture in Canada through the Winnipeg Naija Trade Fair. Organized alongside Canada Naija Business Hub.
- Toke Abiodun Adetu: Toke Abiodun Adetu, the founder of Naija Market Day and Kara Magazine, is a cultural visionary dedicated to connecting African communities in Canada to their roots by celebrating and sharing the richness of African heritage through vibrant marketplaces and insightful publications.
- Tolulope Adebayo: Tolulope Adebayo, founder of Canada Naija-Business Hub, BrandParlour Communications Inc., and co-host Winnipeg Naija Tradefair, a vibrant showcase of Nigerian culture and entrepreneurship, is dedicated to uplifting the Nigerian business community in Canada.
- Oladimeji Dada: Oladimeji Dada, through his company TrendinRhoda Entertainment, is making waves in Manitoba’s entertainment scene by organizing high-profile events that bring top African talents to the province. TrendinRhoda has set new attendance records, hosting artists like Johnny Drille with 900 attendees, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal with over 20,000 views on YouTube, Basketmouth in Winnipeg and Brandon with 500 and 380 people respectively, and Young John drawing a crowd of 650. The company’s mission is to elevate Manitoba’s reputation to match that of Ontario and Calgary in the entertainment landscape.
- Kehinde Kenny Adewoyin: Kenny Adewoyin has been a dedicated advocate for immigrants and international students since arriving in Canada with her family in 2011. Through her businesses, Davest Immigration Consulting and Just Like Family Home Care, she supports newcomers in various ways. In 2022, her Maple Leaf employment program helped facilitate the migration of numerous African professionals to Canada. Kenny is also a key recruiter for the University of Manitoba’s Extended Education Program and actively organizes immigration seminars across Manitoba and Canada, which provide crucial guidance to Africans, international students, and immigrants. Additionally, her work with Just Like Family Home Care supports the employment of African healthcare professionals, including nurses, health aides, and support workers.
