Immigrants Rise at the RISE Awards in Edmonton

Story and photos by Mary Thomas

“I’m honoured” words that echoed through the banquet hall at the EXPO Centre on October 3, 2018, from every RISE award winner, I spoke to. Each of them spoke of their journey from the idea to fruition, the blood, sweat, and teamwork. The ambiance, décor, cocktails, mocktails, appetizers and meal and dessert were to die for, not to mention the MCs CTV’s Josh Classen and Poetess, Nasra Adem who enchanted the audiences with her poetry.

After the speeches by Premier Rachel Notley, Councillor Scott McKeen, Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society ED Sheryl Whiskeyjack, and EMCN Executive Director Erich Ambtman, the awards ceremony ensued with Ukrainian music by Zaitzeva Hertz.

Edmonton Police Commissioner Laurie Hawn presented The Building Futures Award to the Police and Youth Engagement Program and community leaders Mulki Ali and team Sahra Hashi received the Community Leadership award for her selfless efforts towards Somali Women and Children.

The Al Jabal Lebanese Group held the audience mesmerized with a beautiful dance to enthralling music.

The Arts and Culture Award went to the expert storyteller and mural artist Pedro Rodriguez De Los Santos.

David Ridley, Executive Director for Edmonton Heritage Council presented the Welcoming and inclusive workplace award to Alif Partners.

RBC Rising Star Youth Award went to Kondeh Mansaray for his exemplary work supporting kids to engage in a 

productive activity by starting an after-school soccer training club which has now grown to accommodate 100 kids. His humility and gratitude to those who supported him through this were evident as he speaks.

Khalid Tarrabain bagged the CPA Lifetime Achievement Award for his incredible work over 25 years supporting the Muslim community through the Al Rashid mosque, education, security and basic needs for refugees and immigrants as well as building bridges with other faith communities.  He is truly a tall man with a kind heart, we can all look up to.

The star-studded program came to close with great African beats from the Mbira Renaissance group.