Remarkable People in Rossmere: Grant and Award Recipients

Every month I could write about amazing people I meet in Rossmere, and April was no exception.

Nour Ali is a Syrian who has been active in Winnipeg since his arrival from Syria five years ago. As well as maintaining a business and acting as a translator for newcomers, Nour recently received a provincial grant to assist Kurdish, Arab and Yezidi immigrants integrate into Winnipeg.

Rossmere resident Kwame Bonsu is one of just nine people to receive the Premier’s Volunteer Service Award for his unwavering dedication as a volunteer at YMCA-WYCA Youth Programs, Community LIFE Church’s outreach program, Global Visions Western Canada Regional Roundtable, the U of M Volunteer Program, Folklorama and the African Communities of Manitoba. Kwame also served on his high school student council and received the Macadonian Award at his high school graduation. Kwame is evidence that passion to serve and lead can be found in every generation.

On April 20, I was also pleased to honour two Rossmere students — Simran Saggi and Marianna Pozdirca — who received Nellie McClung Trailblazer Scholarships. These women were acknowledged on International Women’s Day, received a letter from Manitoba status of women minister Rochelle Squires, and a scholarship as part of the Manitoba Government’s commitment to partner with the Nellie McClung Foundation. Simran called it “a perfect Friday” after a week of exams. Her scholarship essay outlined a variety of leadership experiences as well as her goal to pursue STEM academics at university in order to assist others. Marianna, who works as a student assistant for a city councillor while also studying science, drew on her experience as an immigrant and shared about her passion for a better future for everyone.
On April 26, municipal relations minister Jeff Wharton and sustainable development minister Rochelle Squires announced more grants for community organizations.

“Investments in these community organizations are critical in supporting the sustainability and economic development of neighbourhoods across our province,” said Wharton. “Budget 2018 announced an 11 per cent funding increase for the Community Places Program, demonstrating our continued commitment to community development in Manitoba.”

The government is investing more than $20 million in community development programs for the 2018-19 fiscal year. Applications are now being accepted for the Community Places Program, Hometown Manitoba, Neighbourhoods Alive! and Partner 4 Growth. More information about the launch intake for Community Development Funding can be viewed on the news tab of andrewmicklefield.com or by contacting my 935 McLeod Avenue office at 204 289 4545 or by emailing andrew@andrewmicklefield.com. My office is available to connect with interested groups to guide them through the application process!