Province honouring 150 Manitobans for outstanding volunteer efforts

People from across the province of all ages will be receiving a unique award for their dedication to their communities.

From Emerson to Gillam, 150 Manitobans have been selected to be recognized as part of Honour 150.

The volunteers' ages range from 15 to over 100 years old. Each recipient has a brief bio, describing their contributions. Some examples of work include game nights in Portage la Prarie, being Carman’s "Get-it-Done Citizen," advocating for mental health awareness and helping newcomers to Manitoba.

“In these unprecedented times, the stories of these 150 Manitobans demonstrate the resilience, hope, and selflessness that make our province strong," Monique LaCoste and Stuart Murray, Co-Chairs of Manitoba 150, says in a statement.

The duo says the work of these Manitobans has directly impacted Manitoba's generous reputation, saying "we have never been prouder to call ourselves Manitoban."

Manitoba's Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage, Cathy Cox, agrees with the pair's statement.

“We are pleased to recognize and honour these remarkable Manitobans who have so generously and selflessly given of themselves to improve their communities and our beautiful province,” the Minister says.

Junel Malapad (pictured running in 2019 for Siloam Mission) is one of 150 Manitobans being recognized. (Supplied)

The community-nominated Manitobans will receive the unique award made from salvaged copper from the Legislative Building. Takashi Iwasaki, a Manitoban artist, designed the Awards Canada-produced medal with inspiration from the province's prairie sky, rivers, villages, and farming roots.

"Just as the medal tells a deeper story, so too do the amazing individuals who will receive it. Their stories are infinite, and I hope when they look at their medal, they know that Manitoba appreciates them," the artist says.

Iwasaki is known for his colourful installation at Kildonan Park Pond and 2017 Canada Summer Games murals. 

Along with the medal, a $500 donation to a charity of the recipient's choice is being given by Canada Life. Many of the recipients have chosen to give their donations to their home churches.