Tam Nguyen

Tam Nguyen is the founder of the charity "Canadians Helping Kids in Vietnam," which has helped build 14 schools in Vietnam over the past 25 years, earning Tam a Coronation Medal from King Charles for his philanthropic work. Tam is also a tailor and created the custom jersey for the Dale Hawerchuk statue during the 2024-25 playoffs.

Tara Torchia

Tara Torchia is the store owner of The Unexpected Gift. After her own cancer diagnosis, Tara opened The Unexpected Gift in 2015 that provides products to help others through their treatments and recovery. Through The Unexpected Gift, Tara provides comfort and safety that only a survivor can provide.

Kelvin Shergold

Kelvin Shergold is the Director of Abuse Services with Peguis Child and Family Services. Kelvin has been working within the child welfare sector for twelve years and collaborates with Toba Centre to ensure trauma informed practice is being delivered to children, youth and families of Peguis First Nation.

Michael Baker

Michael Baker is a volunteer minor hockey coach in Niverville. Michael fosters a positive and inclusive environment where all players feel valued, no matter their ability level. He teaches youth technical skills needed to succeed on the ice and the value of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Sarah Derech

Sarah Derech is an ICU nurse. Sarah has spent over a decade working with and caring for critically ill patients at St. Boniface Hospital in various ICU settings.

Krystal Short

Krystal Short is a volunteer with Manitoba Underdogs Rescue since 2016. Krystal is the fundraising coordinator and adoptions coordinator dedicating hours to the charity in addition to her full time job. She has also fostered and cared for over 100 dogs while they waited for their forever homes.

Brooke Peters

Brooke Peters is a high school student and passionate fundraiser for cancer research. Brooke hosts an iced tea stand to raise money for local families with a child going through cancer treatment. Since 2018, Brooke and her family have raised nearly $100,000.

Mark Lawson

Mark Lawson is the president of the Keystone Rainbow Curling Club. Mark has been a dedicated leader in fostering inclusion and community through sport. Under his guidance, the club continues to provide a welcoming space for 2SLGBTQ+ curlers to connect, compete, and celebrate diversity. As the league marks its 20th anniversary, Mark’s commitment to creating a sense of belonging both on and off the ice shines brightly.

Ernesto Ofiaza Jr.

Ernesto Ofiaza Jr. is a Filipino Canadian community leader, musician, and cultural advocate. Ernesto is the founding president of the Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Inc and has been a passionate force in advancing youth empowerment, senior inclusion, and the preservation of Filipino heritage through the arts.

Josh Pchajek

Josh Pchajek is a passionate community member who donates his time to The Dream Factory and other charities, brightening the days of children and adults alike dressed up as their favorite character. Josh has a passion for making dreams come true and helping people meet their heroes.

Annie MacDonald

Annie MacDonald is the creator of the Kids Care Café which serves hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and baked goods to support CancerCare Manitoba. With help from family, friends, and fellow young baristas Olenka, Ruby, and Hannah, this year's Kids Care Café proudly raised $3,361.05 for CancerCare Manitoba!