A Brandon community leader was among those recognized by the Manitoba government for helping create more welcoming and inclusive communities across the province.
Aloysius Anyichie received a Welcoming Community Champion Award during the second annual Manitoba Mosaic Awards, part of Welcoming Week 2026 which wrapped up today (Saturday, September 19). The awards celebrate newcomers, immigrants, refugees and community partners whose efforts help strengthen communities and foster a sense of belonging throughout Manitoba.
Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino says this year’s recipients have made meaningful contributions by building bridges between cultures, supporting newcomer families, creating opportunities for youth and helping open doors in workplaces and communities.
The awards recognize 12 recipients from communities across Manitoba. New categories introduced this year include the Indigenous Bridge Builder Award and the Lifelong Community Bridge Builder Award, highlighting individuals who have demonstrated long-term leadership in building understanding, inclusion and community connections. Welcoming Week brings together organizations and residents to celebrate diversity and encourage stronger connections among neighbours of all backgrounds.
The province says the Manitoba Mosaic Awards highlight the important role individuals, businesses and organizations play in ensuring newcomers feel welcomed, supported and able to contribute to their communities.
Officials say recipients like Anyichie demonstrate how local leadership can help create stronger, more inclusive communities while encouraging a greater sense of belonging for everyone who chooses to call Manitoba home.
The 2026 Manitoba Mosaic Award recipients are:
- Indigenous Bridge Builder Award: Shawn Charlebois, Swan River; and Terri-Lynn Anderson, Winnipeg.
- Lifelong Community Bridge Builder Award: Akech Mayuom, The Pas; and Ernesto Ofiaza Jr., Winnipeg.
- Youth Leadership Award: Aqeelah Daibu, Morden; and Hafiz Jatto, Winnipeg.
- Welcoming Community Champion Award (individual): Aloysius Anyichie, Brandon; and Izzeddin Hawamda, Winnipeg.
- Welcoming Community Champion Award (community): Regional Connections Immigrant Services, Winkler; and Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM Inc.), Winnipeg.
- Welcoming Community Champion Award (business): Vidir Solutions Inc., Arborg; and Gathery Group, Winnipeg.
For more information about the Manitoba Mosaic Awards and the 2026 recipients, visit www.gov.mb.ca/mosaicawards.
