Many studies have shown that young girls can lose a lot of confidence as they go through their teen years. Because of this, we need to find ways to help girls see what their future could look like and inspire them to believe 'Yes I Can'.
Yes I Can Intro with Ibukun Okunnu
About 'Yes I Can'
The Nellie McClung Foundation is thrilled to announce the recipients of the prestigious 'Yes I Can' Leadership Awards. In response to the well-documented drop in self-confidence experienced by young girls during their teenage years, the Nellie McClung Foundation has actively taken strides to empower girls and young women, fostering their belief in the mantra, 'Yes, I Can.'
In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the International Day of the Girl in 2022, the Nellie McClung Foundation introduced the 'Yes I Can' Leadership Award program. This initiative recognizes the remarkable achievements of five dynamic young women aged 16-25, spotlighting their accomplishments through a captivating video profile series.
The video profiles of the award recipients will be launched weekly, beginning on October 11th. Each week will feature the compelling story of one of the following recipients:
These outstanding individuals are following in the footsteps of trailblazing women who came before them, making significant contributions to diverse fields, including science, business, politics, medicine, education, and beyond.
Hon. Myrna Driedger, Founder of The Nellie McClung Foundation, shared her thoughts on the significance of this release, stating, "We chose International Day of the Girl to release the video profiles of the recipients, as it is a day dedicated to celebrating the voices and power of girls. These five young women serve as shining examples of how women are actively contributing to their communities and making a positive difference on a broader scale. Whether as students, entrepreneurs, volunteers, or activists, they are pioneering change and demonstrating that age should never be a barrier to shaping the future and enhancing the well-being of others."
The Nellie McClung Foundation would like to graciously thank the support of Mindscape Studios for their generous support.
2023 AWARD RECIPIENT
Antonina
Kandiurin
Antonina Kandiurin, originally from Churchill, Manitoba, embarked on a life-changing educational journey when she moved over 1000 kilometers away to Winnipeg at the age of 17, becoming the first in her family to pursue post-secondary education. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new city, Antonina found comfort in her involvement with the PERKS Council and the Indigenous Engagement Committee at the University of Manitoba.
Antonina Kandiurin
Now, Antonina is making a significant impact as a Women's Group Leader at the Churchill Health Centre, part of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. She plans to leverage her experiences from the University of Manitoba to create a safe and supportive space for women in her community to connect and improve their overall well-being.
Antonina's passion extends to inspiring others to believe in themselves and pursue higher education. She is grateful to her Churchill and York Factory First Nation communities, as well as her parents and resilient grandmother, who continue to inspire her.
Antonina Kandiurin's journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and the capacity of one individual to create positive change in their community. Her story serves as an inspiration for others to chase their dreams and overcome obstacles.
2023 AWARD RECIPIENT
Emily Meadows
Emily Meadows is a dynamic Métis artist with a strong connection to Treaty One Territory. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music Theatre Performance from Sheridan College and has honed her skills through training at Toronto's Second City Conservatory program. As both a performer and a playwright, Emily excels at crafting compelling narratives and making audiences laugh. Her journey with the Pimootayowin Festival began as an actor and has now expanded to include her as a playwright, highlighting her versatility in the industry.
Emily Meadows
Emily's artistic journey has left an indelible mark on stages nationwide. She has collaborated with prestigious institutions like the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, Charlottetown Festival Young Company, Suitcase Theatre, Western Canada Theatre, Dry Cold Productions, Rainbow Stage, and the Hamilton Fringe Festival. As a Métis artist, Emily brings authenticity and reverence for her heritage to her work, serving as a cultural bridge between tradition and innovation. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to sharing meaningful stories make her a true trailblazer in the performing arts.
Emily's artistic evolution continues to flourish, promising more captivating performances and inventive creations that resonate deeply with audiences. Her work enriches, enlightens, and entertains, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to experience it.
2023 AWARD RECIPIENT
Camila Quintanilla
Camila Quintanilla's journey from Peru to Winnipeg in March 2021 marked the beginning of an exciting chapter in her life. Her decision to relocate was driven by her pursuit of excellence in the field of hospitality and tourism management, as she enrolled in RRC Polytech's Hotel and Restaurant Management program, specializing in the Hospitality and Tourism Management diploma. Little did she know that her journey would lead to remarkable achievements and recognition.
Camila Quintanilla
In 2021, Quintanilla's exceptional dedication and performance earned her the coveted title of Co-operative Education Manitoba (CEM) Co-op Student of the Year. Her accomplishments did not stop there; she was also chosen as one of the 39 outstanding co-op students, selected from a pool of 80,000 candidates nationwide, nominated for the prestigious Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada Student of the Year Award. This recognition is a testament to her passion and commitment to her chosen field. Moreover, her co-op experience culminated in a full-time job offer at Baked Expectations, a remarkable achievement for someone embarking on their very first work experience.
Camila Quintanilla's journey is a shining example of the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring professionals in the hospitality and tourism industry, showcasing the opportunities that await those who strive for excellence in their chosen path.
2023 AWARD RECIPIENT
Stephanie
Kalo
Stephanie Kalo's journey to becoming a CPA candidate has been marked by her unwavering commitment to community involvement and a relentless pursuit of personal growth. From a young age, she recognized the transformative power of participating in various activities as a means of supporting her community and charting her path toward a career in accounting. Stephanie's dedication to community service and her aspiration to give back have always been at the forefront of her journey.
Stephanie Kalo
During her high school years, she embraced a diverse range of fields, from health and science to business, as a way to gain valuable experience and connect with people from different backgrounds.
In her current role as the Manager of Corporate Relations for the Commerce Students Association, Stephanie plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the Winnipeg business community and the aspiring talent within the Asper School of Business. Her role reflects her passion for fostering connections and facilitating opportunities for her fellow students to engage with the broader business world. Stephanie's commitment to building these vital connections exemplifies her dedication to not only her personal growth but also the growth and success of her peers.
Stephanie Kalo's journey is a testament to the power of community engagement and the profound impact it can have on one's personal and professional development. Her passion for connecting people, coupled with her pursuit of a career as a CPA, highlights her dedication to excellence and her unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in both the accounting field and her community. Stephanie's story serves as an inspiration for those who seek to create meaningful connections and give back while charting their own path to success.
2023 AWARD RECIPIENT
Jessica Walker
Jessica Walker's passion for science and social justice ignited when she was just thirteen years old, prompting her to embark on a remarkable journey. She conceived a research project aimed at exploring the possibility of teaching empathy and compassion to children through education about farm animals. Her groundbreaking research, now published, revealed a profound truth: children can develop greater empathy for animals and each other when equipped with the knowledge to do so.
Jessica Walker
For Jessica, the fundamental connection between the heart and the mind has always been paramount, and she firmly believed that personal interaction with farm animals could lead to transformative changes in people's beliefs and dietary choices.
As the visionary Founder of the Little Red Barn Sanctuary, Jessica has turned her passion into a thriving reality. This sanctuary serves as a loving home to a diverse group of rescued farm animals, each of whom acts as an ambassador for their species. Through close encounters with these animals, Jessica aims to convey a powerful message: farm animals are not mere commodities but sentient beings deserving of compassion and respect. Her innovative initiative extends beyond animal welfare, with a ripple effect on people and the environment. By addressing the ethical and environmental concerns associated with factory farming, Jessica's work is a catalyst for positive change on multiple fronts.
Jessica's dedication to bridging the gap between science, compassion, and social responsibility continues to inspire and educate countless individuals. Her unwavering commitment to promoting empathy and sustainability underscores her mission to create a better world for farm animals, humanity, and the planet.
2022 'Yes I Can'
Leadership Award Recipients
MARISSA MAGSINO
Student, Researcher, Athlete, Leader
DIVYA SHARMA
Student, Community Developer, Volunteer, Leader
TRECHELLE BUNN
Athlete, Student, Advocate and Ambassador, Leader
BRIANNE SANDERSON
Student, Female Tradesperson, Community Leader
SAMIA OUIHYA
Pharmacy Student, Music Manager, Leader
2022 AWARD RECIPIENT
Marissa
Magsino
Marissa Magsino is a grade 11 student at St. Mary’s Academy in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Marissa has been participating in science fairs for the past 5 years. She enjoys the challenge of developing a new research project every year, or in this case, building upon her research from previous years. It is exciting for her to compete every year because she enjoys sharing the results of her project to various groups, mentors and judges and finding new innovative
Marissa Magsino
discoveries. Her research has been in the areas of environmental science and climate change. Marissa’s project this year is titled “Behavioral modification of Tenebrio molitor by toxic compounds to maximize the biodegradation of polystyrene”. This project is the 4th phase of
her multiple-year research utilizing mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) to naturally consume styrofoam. With the exponential use of polystyrene in our consumer-based society and its detrimental impact on climate change, she is researching innovative ways to harness the power
of nature to find practical, sustainable and biological solutions for our planet.
Marissa has tested and applied her research at her school and she also leads a club (SMA Green Team) that is committed to environmentally friendly initiatives (like composting) in her school community. In addition to participating in science fairs, Marissa is also a debater who has
competed in Provincial and National school competitions in Canada. Marissa is an active member of the Winnipeg Optimist Athletics Track and Field Club and enjoys hiking outdoors.
With her busy schedule, she finds time to work at a sports retailer, Sport Chek. She also took her hobby of making custom soaps and turned it into an online business, and participates in craft shows and farmer’s markets in her community. Her highly rated business and online
platforms have allowed her to reach an audience across Canada. Marissa has 10 years of training in dance, enjoys playing the piano, and has participated in school musicals throughout the years.
2022 AWARD RECIPIENT
Divya
Sharma
Divya Sharma has a genuine desire to connect and create community and has set a remarkable bar for herself.
Sharma is the youngest board member of Asian Women of Winnipeg, won an Empower Women 20/20 award from Manitoba Status of Women, a Solidarity Award from the United Nations and the Honour 150 award from Manitoba 150 for her volunteer efforts to provide care packages for essential workers.
Divya Sharma
Growing up in India, and inspired by her father, Kamal Sharma, and her Amir Chand Sharma, she witnessed the concept of seva, or selfless service, at her local Gurudwara and knew that serving others was something she wanted to do.
When her family moved to Canada, Sharma turned her desire to give back into a method for finding her way in a new life. When she learned about Terry Fox in elementary school, she realized that philanthropy is ingrained in the Canadian experience as well.
Divya aims to promote Indigenous Reconciliation, youth involvement and diversity through sharing her skills in leadership, public speaking, budgeting, and strategic planning to build strong communities for all.
“Youth are not only the next generation but the change we aspire to see today.”
2022 AWARD RECIPIENT
Tréchelle
Bunn
Tréchelle Bunn is an athlete, university student and advocate. A member of the Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, Bunn is a three-time Academic All-Canadian; Academic All-Canadians are exceptional student-athletes who achieve an academic standing of 80 percent or better while competing in the USports League.
Bunn was the 2022 Recipient of the University of Manitoba's Indigenous Award of Excellence for Community Building; This prestigious award recognizes a student who
Tréchelle Bunn
serves as a role model, builds relationships and community, and demonstrates initiative in advancing Indigenous engagement at UM. She was also recognized as the 2022 Recipient of the UMSU Award for Indigenous Community Leaders: This award recognizes Indigenous students who are leaders in their communities.
She is the Founder and Race Director of the Reconciliation Run: which is Canada's first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Half-Marathon.
Tréchelle is an Indigenious network representative for Jack.org; Jack.org is a national non-profit focused on young leaders revolutionizing mental health in Canada. As the suicide rate among Indigenous peoples is higher than any other population and many of our communities are facing a mental health crisis, she advocates for communities to receive mental health awareness and suicide prevention education rooted in Indigenous teachings and facilitated by fellow Indigenous peoples.
She is an alumna of the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment; ICE is a highly competitive student group for Indigenous leaders at the University of Manitoba. It builds and expands students' leadership and is rooted in self-development and community involvement. It allows students to network with notable Indigenous leaders across the province and gain professionalism.
She is a Youth Delegate for Generation for Equality - Native Women's Association of Canada: NWAC selected Indigenous youth leaders from across the country to gather at their HQ in Ottawa to discuss gender inequality and share visions for a more equitable future for the next generation.
Tréchelle was a Winnipeg Aboriginal Film Festival Guest Speaker and video contributor: On the opening night of the 2021 Winnipeg Aboriginal Film Festival, she shared her Kunshi (Grandmother) Mildred's story of resilience as a residential school survivor. Video footage from the July 2021 Healing Walk that she organized was included in the opening video of the festival alongside footage of her Kunshi Mildred sharing her experience at Birtle Residential School.
2022 AWARD RECIPIENT
Brianne
Sanderson
Brianne Sanderson, named after her father and one of her greatest inspirations and heroes, Brian Sanderson, grew up 2 hours north of Winnipeg in Pinaymootang First Nation.
Growing up in Pinaymootang First Nation presented challenges, however Brianne enjoyed a fun childhood filled with fishing and often attended Sunday school with her grandmother and siblings.
Education was a high priority for Brianne’s
Brianne Sanderson
parents, and they ensure that she complete high school, which she did with 15 other people from a school with an average of 300 people.
After graduation, she worked as an education assistant for the school system in Pinaymootang, which she really enjoyed and sparked a passion for education. A year after graduation, she enrolled in the Faculty of Education at the University of Winnipeg and left Pinaymootang First Nations.
After moving to Winnipeg, Brianne decided to change fields and began a course from the Manitoba Construction Sector Council, that introduced her to the trades of Carpentry.
Shortly after she finished the course; she received her first construction job as a framer in the city. It was intimidating but through her training she felt confident that she could do the job. Brianne feels that one of the most important assets of trades is confidence, she believes you need to really believe in yourself, and it doesn’t matter if others do; but it is nice when you know someone else believes in you too.
Sanderson is currently employed with Pennco where she has worked on northern schools, water treatment plants, a police station, the new National Research Centre in Winnipeg, and the Churchill marine observatory.
It has been 5 years since Sanderson completed that entry course and she will be writing her final exam for her Red Seal in December 2022. Reflecting on the last 5 years, she feels humbled. One of her goals when she began her trades journey was to be able to be financially stable on her own; and she feels she has accomplished that goal.
2022 AWARD RECIPIENT
Samia
Ouihya
Samia Ouihya graduated from the University of St. Boniface with a general Bachelor of Science degree. She is now completing her studies as a pharmacy student at the University of Manitoba. Since the start of her studies, she has also successfully been managing international popstar on the rise, Faouzia. Samia has played a key role in growing Faouzia's collective social media platforms to over 6 million followers and over 100 million Spotify streams.
Samia Ouihya
She has also taken part in bringing opportunities forward such as Faouzia's collaboration with multi-Grammy winning artist, John Legend, all while still striving to complete her degree in pharmacy. She plans to continue her managerial and school dreams, fulfilling her passion for science and music.