2025 AC Awards | YEG Awardees
- Jan Gillett- Spruce Grove, Community Leader of the Year Award
- Fowzia Hersi- Edmonton, Community Leader of the Year Award
- Samuel (Sam) Juru- Edmonton, Professional of the Year Award
- Simisola (Simi) Aderibigbe-Edmonton, BCW Entrepreneur of the Year
- Busayo Disu- Edmonton, Artist of the Year Award
- Yvette Yakibonge- Edmoton, AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
- Ronnie Gwebawaya- Edmonton, AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
- Sinkunia Community Development Organization – SCDO-Edmonton, Forward Moving Organization Award
- Amanda Chin- Edmonton, Friends of Diversity Award
- Patricia Gumbo- Edmonton, Unsung Heroes Award
- Kedist Endale-Edmonron, Life Time Achievement Award
- Jan Gillett- Spruce Grove, Community Leader of the Year Award
- Fowzia Hersi- Edmonton, Community Leader of the Year Award
- Samuel (Sam) Juru- Edmonton, Professional of the Year Award
- Simisola (Simi) Aderibigbe-Edmonton, BCW Entrepreneur of the Year
- Busayo Disu- Edmonton, Artist of the Year Award
- Yvette Yakibonge- Edmoton, AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
- Ronnie Gwebawaya- Edmonton, AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
- Sinkunia Community Development Organization – SCDO-Edmonton, Forward Moving Organization Award
- Amanda Chin- Edmonton, Friends of Diversity Award
- Patricia Gumbo- Edmonton, Unsung Heroes Award
- Kedist Endale-Edmonron, Life Time Achievement Award
The AC Awards Northern Alberta will take place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at ArtSphere, located at 10133–97 St. NW, Edmonton.
RSVP here
2025 Nominees
Community Leader of the Year Award
- Jan Gillett, Spruce Grove
Jan Gillett, originally from Toronto and now proudly rooted in Spruce Grove, has dedicated her life to fostering stronger, more inclusive communities. Drawing strength from her West African heritage and the enduring wisdom of her ancestors—embodied in the proverb, “When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind”—Jan’s journey is grounded in resilience, identity, and committed service.
Recognizing a critical gap in local supports, Jan founded the Parkland Pregnancy Support Centre, a registered charity providing vital information and resources to low-income families. She later co-founded the Hope Beverley House Society, the first safe house in the region offering refuge and stability to women and children escaping domestic violence.
Inspired by the vibrant cultural groups nearby, Jan also created a kinship group for African, African-descendant, and Caribbean communities to nurture cultural connection, celebrate heritage, empower youth, and build a unified future.
In 2021, Jan broke new ground as the first person of colour—and the first Black individual—elected to Spruce Grove City Council. She played a key role in establishing the City’s official proclamations for Black History Month and Emancipation Day, honouring the vital contributions of Black Canadians.
Her lifelong dedication has been recognized with numerous honours, including Pillar of the Community, the King Charles III Coronation Award, and the Rotary Club’s Jeanette Fuhr Award. Jan is a proud wife, mother of three, and grandmother of four, committed to preserving history to light the way forward for future generations.
- Fowzia Hersi, Edmonton
Professional of the Year Award
- Samuel (Sam) Juru, Edmonton
Samuel (Sam) Juru is a seasoned executive leader with over two decades of experience in organizational transformation and community-centered strategy across government, non-profit, and international development sectors. His career is anchored in a deep commitment to equity, empowerment, and systems change—especially for newcomer, immigrant, and racialized communities.
Sam’s professional journey began in international development, where he spent six years working with Global Affairs Canada and other international organizations. His work took him across multiple African countries, managing and evaluating Canadian-funded socio-economic development projects and strengthening partnerships designed to create sustainable community impact.
He later joined the City of Edmonton as a Social Planner, eventually becoming the City’s Lead for Immigration and Settlement. Over his seven years with the City, Sam played a key role in shaping municipal policies, programs, and strategies that supported Edmonton’s rapidly growing and diverse newcomer population.
Sam then moved into non-profit executive leadership, serving as the Executive Director of Africa Centre—one of Western Canada’s largest Black-led and Black-serving organizations. Under his guidance, the organization experienced significant growth, expanded partnerships across all levels of government, diversified its funding base, and successfully negotiated with Edmonton City Council for the land transfer needed to establish the African Multicultural Centre for African and Caribbean descent communities.
He now leads the Edmonton Newcomer Centre as Executive Director, where he continues to champion community-driven strategies that strengthen outcomes for newcomers and equity-deserving groups.
Widely respected for his strategic foresight, cultural fluency, and collaborative leadership style, Sam excels at uniting diverse stakeholders, building resilient teams, and elevating community voices through policy, storytelling, and systems design. His own lived experience as a newcomer gives him a profound understanding of both the barriers and the possibilities within the settlement and integration journey—fueling his unwavering dedication to equity, inclusion, and meaningful community impact.
BCW Entrepreneur of the Year
- Dr Simisola (Simi) Aderibigbe
Simi Aderibigbe was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and has built an inspiring career that spans three countries and two continents. She earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Ibadan in 2003 and practiced dentistry in Nigeria before relocating with her family to England in 2006.
Driven by a passion for public health and community well-being, Simi pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health with a specialization in Epidemiology from the University of Liverpool in 2012. Shortly after, her family moved to Canada, where she continued her pursuit of professional excellence.
In 2018, Simi began her second dental training at the University of Alberta, completing the Advanced Dental Placement Program for internationally trained dentists. She went on to earn her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree—her second dental degree—in Canada.
In December 2020, Simi opened Flourish Dental in Edmonton. Since its launch, she has become a beacon of inspiration for many. Flourish Dental has grown not only as a practice, but also as a mentoring hub for youth aspiring to enter dentistry and for internationally trained dentists seeking pathways to licensure in Canada. Many of the individuals she has mentored are now practicing dentists across the country, while others are successfully completing dental programs in Canada and the United States.
Simi is an active member of numerous professional organizations across Canada, the U.S., and Africa. She is also a proud supporter of charitable and non-profit initiatives both locally and nationally, consistently giving back to the communities that shaped her journey.
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
- Solomon Choga, Edmonton
Solomon Choga is a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to transforming spaces into thriving, sustainable ventures. His developments across Alberta—particularly in Redwater and Edmonton—demonstrate a steadfast commitment to economic growth, strategic planning, and community advancement.
With professional expertise as a Developer and Builder, Solomon applies a comprehensive approach to real estate: identifying high-potential sites, guiding projects from concept and design through construction and leasing, and ensuring each development delivers lasting value to both investors and communities.
Over a remarkable career spanning more than 35 years, Solomon has founded or co-founded seven successful ventures, each flourishing under his strategic leadership. His projects consistently showcase his talent for turning vision into reality by blending sound business strategy with meaningful community impact.
Currently, Solomon leads the development of a large commercial and residential community in Redwater, Alberta. The site features three national anchor tenants—Tim Hortons, Petro Canada, and Dairy Queen—and is expanding with additional retail and service opportunities. Plans are also underway for affordable housing that meets the town’s growing residential needs and aligns with local development priorities.
A hallmark of Solomon’s success is his keen ability to identify prime locations and maximize their potential through well-executed development, construction, and leasing strategies. This approach has built a multi-million-dollar real estate portfolio spanning commercial and residential properties.
Solomon’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility. By partnering with local and international stakeholders, he ensures every project achieves not only financial success but also enhances the quality of life for the surrounding community.
Beyond Alberta, Solomon serves as a vital bridge between the Diaspora community and development opportunities in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. His work channels global investment and expertise toward sustainable development within the Special Economic Zone—empowering the Diaspora to play a meaningful role in the growth and prosperity of their homeland.
Artist of the Year Award
- Busayo Disu, Strathcona County
Busayo Disu is the Founder and Lead Strategist of Avid Readers of Africa (ARA), an organization dedicated to bridging cultural gaps through storytelling, dynamic presentations, and artistic innovation. Through ARA, she has delivered more than 100 presentations to teachers and students across Alberta’s elementary and secondary schools, sparking cultural awareness and deeper understanding. By sharing the lived experiences, challenges, and resilience of African immigrant children and their families, she equips educators with practical strategies to better support these students in school environments.
She is the author of Our Story, Our Voice, a powerful collection of 12 fictionalized stories inspired by the experiences of African immigrants in Canada. The book has earned endorsements from Mayor Rod Frank of Strathcona County, Minister Tanya Fir of Alberta’s Ministry of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, and several other notable Albertans—underscoring its impact in promoting cultural empathy, inclusion, and community connectedness in diverse settings.
As the Founding President of the Africans Society of Strathcona County since 2022, Busayo leads initiatives that uplift and unite the African community, including monthly capacity-building seminars and an annual African festival that showcases and celebrates the richness of African heritage.
She also contributes her expertise as a Board Member at the Strathcona County Library (SCL) and the Arts & Culture Council of Strathcona County (ACCS), where she champions African arts and advances cultural diversity and inclusion initiatives across the region.
AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
- Yvette Yakibonge, Edmonton
Yvette Yakibonge is a young Canadian leader deeply committed to her community, known for her strong sense of service and her remarkable ability to bring people together around meaningful initiatives. For nearly a decade, she has served in the Canadian public service, holding roles across several federal departments—including Employment and Social Development Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, and Women and Gender Equality Canada. These diverse experiences have given her a rich and nuanced understanding of Canada’s most pressing social issues. She has also contributed to research and consulting projects, where her professionalism and analytical rigor are widely recognized.
Yvette holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alberta’s Campus Saint-Jean, with a major in Political Science, and a Master of Public Policy from McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy—an academic journey that reflects her intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and strong commitment to public service.
Her connection to the Alliance-Jeunesse-Famille de l’Alberta Society (AJFAS) began in childhood, when she participated enthusiastically in its camps and activities. Today, she continues to give back with the same passion, supporting women and youth from francophone immigrant communities. Those who know her admire the way she bridges generations so naturally—moving from participant to mentor with grace and authenticity.
Yvette’s community leadership has also gained national recognition. She was selected to serve on the Youth Advisory Group of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, collaborating with young leaders across the country to develop innovative community initiatives—an experience that reinforced her inclusive, collaborative, and forward-looking vision.
Active in Edmonton’s francophone community for more than a decade, Yvette also serves at Jerusalem City Church as a translator and young adult leader. Through this role, she helps foster intercultural dialogue, civic engagement, and the transmission of values that strengthen community cohesion.
As an engaged speaker, she regularly delivers talks in Edmonton and across several Canadian provinces on youth empowerment, leadership, and inclusion.
Since 2022, Yvette has served on the Board of Directors of the Centre for Race and Culture (CFRAC). She has also contributed to the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee at McGill’s Max Bell School. Throughout her public service career, she has remained actively involved in employee groups representing Francophones, youth, and people of African descent—helping build a more inclusive, equitable, and representative Canada.
- Ronnie Gwebawaya, Edmonton
Ronnie Gwebawaya is a committed community leader, environmental advocate, and media professional devoted to creating cleaner, safer, and more inclusive communities. With more than a decade of experience in journalism and youth empowerment, he brings a powerful blend of storytelling, advocacy, and hands-on leadership to his role as Executive Director of Life Changers Community Organization, while also spearheading environmental initiatives through the Life Changers Eco Foundation.
Ronnie is the visionary force behind the growing Mega Trash Bash movement—a grassroots campaign inspiring residents to take ownership of their environment—and the founder of the Life Changing Eco Homes initiative, an innovative program that offers vulnerable youth aged 13–17 supportive, eco-friendly living spaces. Through this initiative, young people gain stability, essential life skills, and opportunities to develop into future climate leaders.
In addition to his community work, Ronnie serves at Hope Mission as a Housing Outreach Worker, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in accessing safe and stable housing along with critical resources. He also contributes to youth development as a Youth Worker with E4C and brings spiritual leadership to his community as a worship leader at New Life Community Church.
Guided by a deep passion for service, sustainability, and empowerment, Ronnie continues to inspire positive change and uplift individuals and families across Edmonton.
Forward Moving Organization Award
- Sinkunia Community Development Organization (SCDO)
Sinkunia Community Development Organization (SCDO) was founded by Issa Kamara, a social worker and community advocate driven by a passion to support African immigrant youth in Canada and improve conditions in his native Sierra Leone. Officially registered in 2007, SCDO focuses on helping new immigrants—especially youth—adapt to life in Canada while supporting grassroots projects abroad in areas like clean water, education, food security, and women’s micro-credit financing.
Guided by values such as dignity, respect, diversity, and community development, SCDO has grown from two volunteers to over 11 staff and 50 volunteers. It collaborates extensively with social service agencies and ethno-cultural groups across Alberta and beyond.
Sinkunia maintains strong academic partnerships, including with the University of Alberta, University of Ottawa, and MacEwan University. These collaborations support pioneering research on topics like food insecurity among African immigrants, culturally relevant health care for Black seniors, and barriers to mental health services for Black youth. The organization’s research has contributed foundational data and innovative community-driven solutions.
SCDO’s expanding program portfolio includes youth mentorship and leadership, antiracism initiatives, seniors’ quilting programs, summer camps, community safety projects, newcomer settlement support, food drives, and a growing community garden.
Since receiving its first grant in 2008, Sinkunia’s funding has steadily increased, now surpassing $600,000 annually, reflecting its broadening reach and impact. Through its culturally responsive services, community partnerships, and research, Sinkunia is empowering African-descent families to thrive and fully participate in Canadian society.
- Life Changers Eco Foundation, Edmonton
Life Changers Eco Foundation is a community-driven environmental organization committed to creating cleaner, greener, and more resilient neighborhoods across Edmonton and beyond. Built on the belief that meaningful sustainability begins with everyday people, the foundation empowers individuals and communities—particularly Black, multicultural, and underserved populations—to actively participate in climate action and environmental stewardship.
The foundation leads some of the region’s most impactful community-based environmental initiatives, including the rapidly expanding Mega Trash Bash, a citywide clean-up movement that mobilizes hundreds of volunteers to revitalize public spaces, reduce waste, and elevate environmental awareness. Through a blend of education, advocacy, and hands-on action, Life Changers Eco Foundation inspires people of all ages to take ownership of their surroundings and champion environmental responsibility.
Beyond clean-ups, the foundation is driving innovation through programs like the Life Changing Eco Homes initiative—an ambitious effort to provide vulnerable youth aged 13–17 with eco-friendly, supportive living environments. These spaces offer stability, nurture leadership potential, and cultivate sustainable lifestyles. The organization also collaborates closely with schools, community groups, local leaders, and partner organizations to advance initiatives in climate education, food security, urban gardening, and youth empowerment.
Rooted in a mission to make environmental sustainability accessible and inclusive, Life Changers Eco Foundation continues to strengthen community bonds, uplift vulnerable groups, and mobilize collective action to safeguard the planet. Through its expanding programs and community leadership, the foundation is helping shape a cleaner, greener, and more hopeful future for generations to come.
Friends of Diversity Award
- Amanda Chin, Edmonton
Amanda Chin is the Operations Manager and Co-Owner of Norwood Dental Centre – Alberta Avenue and Norwood Dental Centre – Inglewood. A devoted mother to two young boys, Amanda brings the same warmth and compassion she has at home into her work and her community.
At Norwood Dental Centre, she champions a philosophy of doing dentistry differently—a welcoming, judgment-free approach with no white coats and no pressure. Since launching the business with her husband, Dr. William Chin, in 2018, the clinic has grown from a small start-up into a thriving multi-million-dollar practice. In September 2025, they proudly opened their second location, further expanding their reach and community impact.
Before becoming a business owner, Amanda built a strong career in government relations and communications. She holds a Public Relations diploma from MacEwan University, a Master of Arts in Public Policy from Athabasca University, and completed her MBA coursework at Royal Roads University.
Amanda is deeply committed to community service. She currently serves as Board Chair of Community Options: A Society for Children & Families and previously held leadership roles as Board Chair of the Alberta Avenue Business Association and as a member of the Board of Governors for Athabasca University.
Under her leadership, Norwood Dental Centre actively supports local organizations, donating to the Newcomer Centre, the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts, the Norwood Child & Family Resource Centre, and several other community initiatives.
From guiding a simple start-up to building a multi-location, multi-million-dollar clinic with nearly 30 employees, Amanda continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership, community spirit, and a commitment to making dental care—and her community—better for everyone.
Unsung Heroes Award
- Patricia Gumbo, Edmonton
Patricia Gumbo is a passionate community leader dedicated to uplifting others and fostering cultural inclusion. In 2016, she founded the Sizwe Foundation, driven by her vision to empower immigrant families to actively engage with the arts across Alberta. Recognizing the transformative power of artistic expression, Patricia has worked tirelessly to build platforms that celebrate cultural participation and enrichment.
As a vibrant force in the arts community, Patricia also founded the Sizwe Marimba Band, which has captivated audiences on some of Edmonton’s largest stages. Her creative talents go beyond performance—she is the visionary playwright behind The Beat of Change, a musical that has enjoyed sold-out shows and resonated deeply with local audiences.
Through her unwavering commitment, Patricia continues to inspire community growth and nurture the arts as a vital tool for connection, identity, and change.
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Richard Furaha, Fort McMurray
Richard is a deeply committed community advocate whose dedication has been recognized through multiple honors. In 2016, he received the RMWB Wildfire Commendation Medal and Certificate for his courageous actions during a devastating wildfire. While many fled, Richard stayed with his motor coach, safely driving people out of the city and demonstrating remarkable bravery and selflessness.
In 2024, Richard was awarded a recognition medal for his unwavering commitment as a volunteer with the Rehoboth Alliance and the Afro-Canadian Association of Fort McMurray—honoring over a decade of devoted service to the community.
Driven by a passion to support newcomers, Richard launched a business as a U-Haul dealer specializing in moving truck rentals. This venture not only allows him to serve new immigrants by assisting with their moving needs but also helps connect them with affordable used vehicles. Always approachable and generous, Richard is known for offering support in any way he can, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.
Life Time Achievement Award
- Kedist Endale, Edmonton
Kedist Endale is a dynamic Ethiopian Canadian entrepreneur and passionate community organizer based in Edmonton. With an impressive 27-year track record of successfully running her own business ventures, Kedist exemplifies resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication. Her entrepreneurial journey is a powerful testament to her commitment to creating value and making a meaningful impact within her community.
Among her diverse enterprises, Kedist owns and operates the Olympia Ethiopian Restaurant—a beloved cultural hub where she shares the rich, authentic flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. Beyond dining, she offers value-added food products, reflecting her deep connection to her heritage and her knack for innovation in the food industry. Through this venture, she delivers a unique culinary experience while supporting both local and international suppliers.
Kedist’s influence extends far beyond business. As a devoted community organizer, she plays a vital role in initiatives that foster unity, cultural preservation, and mutual support. Her active involvement with the Ethiopian Orthodox Church further underscores her commitment to her roots and to nurturing spiritual and communal well-being.
Blending entrepreneurial spirit with heartfelt community service, Kedist continues to inspire those around her—demonstrating how dedication, faith, and cultural pride can uplift a community and create lasting change.
Register below to attend Christmas Market, ArstSphere Grand Opening and AC Awards
AC Awards 2024 Champions for Northern Alberta
AC Awards 2024 Champions for Southern Alberta
For further details or inquiries, please contact us at info@diversitymag.ca.
Fill form below to nominate for AC Awards Northern and Southern Alberta.
Deadline Oct 1
THE CATEGORIES
1- Unsung Heroes Award
For those who have done a good job but never appreciated in the community.
Prix des Héros Méconnus
Attribué à ceux qui ont accompli un excellent travail mais n’ont jamais été reconnus dans la communauté.
2- Community Leader of the Year Award
Those who have done a good job to promote, improve, and build community, through volunteering, nonprofit work, or volunteer at their ethno cultural community.
Prix du Leader Communautaire de l’Année
Attribué à ceux qui ont fait un excellent travail pour promouvoir, améliorer et bâtir la communauté, à travers le bénévolat, le travail dans des organismes à but non lucratif, ou en tant que bénévoles dans leur communauté ethnoculturelle.
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3-AJFAS Junior Achievement Award
A youth below 35, that have done a good job in the community, in education, arts, career, or otherwise.
Prix de la Réussite Junior
Attribué à un jeune de moins de 35 ans, ayant fait un excellent travail dans la communauté, que ce soit dans le domaine de l’éducation, des arts, de la carrière, ou autre.
4- AJFAS Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Those who have done a good job to build a business that supports community.
Prix de l’Entrepreneur de l’Année
Attribué à ceux qui ont fait un excellent travail en créant une entreprise qui soutient la communauté.
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5-Forward Moving Organization Award
Goes to a group, community, organization or business that has done a good job in projecting their culture, their products, services or project.
Prix de l’Organisation Progressiste
Attribué à un groupe, une communauté, une organisation ou une entreprise qui a fait un excellent travail en mettant en valeur sa culture, ses produits, services ou projets.
6-Lifetime Achievement Award
Those who have made success in their lifetime, making significant impact in the community.
Prix pour l’Ensemble des Réalisations
Attribué à ceux qui ont connu du succès au cours de leur vie et ont eu un impact significatif dans la communauté.
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7-Artist of the Year Award
Is any entertainer, DJ, artist, anybody who produces a form of arts.
Prix de l’Artiste de l’Année
Attribué à tout artiste, DJ, ou toute personne produisant une forme d’art.
8-Friends of Diversity
An individual who has shown excellent bridges within communities and different races.
Amis de la Diversité
Attribué à une personne ayant créé d’excellents ponts entre les communautés et les différentes races.
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9-Fashion Designer Award
Is anyone in the fashion industry who have designs to showcase at the award ceremony
Prix du Designer de Mode
Attribué à toute personne dans l’industrie de la mode ayant des créations à présenter lors de la cérémonie de remise des prix.
10-Professional of the Year Award
Goes anyone who have done a good job in their profession or career.
Prix du Professionnel de l’Année
Attribué à toute personne ayant accompli un excellent travail dans sa profession ou sa carrière.
11-BCW Entrepreneur of the Year
This Award celebrates a visionary Women entrepreneur who has made a significant impact through innovative leadership and business excellence.
Entrepreneur de l’Année BCW
Ce Prix célèbre une femme entrepreneuse visionnaire qui a eu un impact significatif grâce à son leadership innovant et son excellence en affaires.
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