RMWB honours Excellence award recipients
Four of Wood Buffalo's community members were honoured by the Municipality for their significant contributions to the region, particularly in advocacy and volunteerism.
RMWB Council with recipients of the 2022 Council's Excellence Awards. Photo supplied by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
The Municipality recognized four community members at this year’s Excellence Awards.
During the Dec. 13 Council meeting, the RMWB honoured them for their contributions to the region, particularly their advocacy and volunteerism.
“Their contributions to the community have positive impacts that go beyond just these awards,” Said Mayor Sandy Bowman. “Thank you for what you’re doing every day to make this such a great place to live.”
Fellow community members nominated the 2022 recipients in four categories:
- Citizen of the Year: Barbara Fitzpatrick
- Recognized for her contributions to the community with adaptive sports, culture and social inclusion. Thanks to her advocacy and assistance, there are now opportunities in the community for inclusive hockey and baseball.
- Everyday Hero: Ashley Stevens
- Honoured for her contributions to disaster and risk reduction in the region, Ashley has been a part of the Syncrude Fire Department for many years and helps train others. She founded 504 Be the Change and plays a key role in fundraising efforts.
- Indigenous Advocate: Mitchel Bowers
- Recognized as an inspirational leader for Indigenous Peoples and the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Mitchel is an integral part of many initiatives that create safer and inclusive spaces throughout the region. Mitchel designed a new variation of the Pride Flag to include Two Spirit representation and is committed to ensuring Indigenous communities are represented at Pride events.
- Youth Honouree: Seham Ahmed
- Honoured for her exceptional youth leadership, volunteer contributions and community involvement that bring positive change to the region. Seham is a dedicated volunteer and MACOY alumni, and actively participates in many regional, provincial and international initiatives.
More information about Council’s Excellence Awards is available on the Municipality’s website.