Manitoba Museum Honours Community Leaders at Annual Tribute Gala

Winnipeg, MB (January 23, 2020): Update: the Tribute Gala will now take place virtually on April 15, 2021. The Manitoba Museum will honour the leaders of tomorrow at its annual Tribute Gala on April 23, 2020. This year, for it’s 50th anniversary, the Museum has taken a new approach to its annual Tribute Gala.

“Traditionally, the gala evening has celebrated the contributions of well-established individuals and organizations whose leadership and philanthropy have shaped our city and our province,” says James Cohen, Chair of the Museum’s Board of Governors. “This year, as we celebrate our last 50 years and consider our future, the Museum asked past Tribute honourees to identify leaders of tomorrow. These people have the vision and drive to propel Manitoba’s future for the next 10, 20, or even 50 years.”

To determine these leaders, past honourees and the Museum Board of Governors considered who might be community champions that reflect the makeup of Manitoba – the next generation of visionaries, philanthropists and community leaders. The following five dedicated and influential individuals were selected.

ABDIKHEIR AHMED has extensive experience working with immigrant and refugee communities in Winnipeg’s inner city and is a passionate advocate for immigrants and refugees in Canada. He is the Director of the Immigration Partnership Winnipeg (IPW) and previously served as the Executive Director of the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM) Inc.

Abdi has received numerous awards for his work creating life-changing opportunities for new Canadians. He was a CBC Manitoba Future 40 Finalist in 2014 and is the recipient of the Order of the Buffalo Hunt, one of the Province of Manitoba’s highest honors, for his work advocating for refugees and building bridges with Canadian communities.

HILARY DRUXMAN dedicates her unwavering passion, artistry and expertise to jewelry design and handcrafted production. She channeled this drive to create the Good Works initiative, designing unique jewelry for local and national charities, with more than $500,000 in profits from sales donated back to them.

Passion and perseverance, talent and skill, strong leadership and an unfailing sense of humor are the cornerstones of Hilary’s success. She established Hilary Druxman Design in 1994 and her work has been showcased in Toronto, New York and global markets; and featured in fashion and industry magazines, retail stores and advertising in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia.

JAIMIE ISAAC is a Winnipeg-based curator and interdisciplinary artist, and a member of Sagkeeng First Nation. She holds a degree in Art History and a Masters of Arts, with research focus on Indigenous Curatorial Praxis, and methodologies in decolonizing and Indigenizing.

At the Winnipeg Art Gallery, Jaimie has curated and co-curated many shows featuring Indigenous artists exploring their current and past experiences through art. She has also independently curated and worked on national collaboration projects.

An advocate for Indigenous representation, Jaimie is an advisor for many organizations. She was one of the Canada Council’s Indigenous delegation at the 2017 Venice Biennale, the International Curatorial Exchange in Finland, and EXPO Chicago. Jaimie has contributed content related to Indigenous creative expression to various art publications and projects. She has also presented her research at symposiums and conferences in North America and Europe.

NIIGAAN SINCLAIR commented in and wrote for international and national print media for years before joining the Winnipeg Free Press as a columnist in 2018. In May of 2019, his work at the Free Press was recognized with the top columnist award by the prestigious National Newspaper Awards.

Niigaan, who is Anishinaabe-born and grew up in Treaty One territory, is also an associate professor at the University of Manitoba. He is also a recovering high school teacher.

HANNAH TAYLOR began raising funds and awareness for Canada’s homeless at age 7. She founded The Ladybug Foundation and raised millions of dollars for more than 65 shelters, food banks, missions, and other organizations across Canada that support people who are hungry, homeless, and living on the street.

The Ladybug Foundation Education Program developed and distributed a multimedia classroom resource to empower young people to make a difference in their world. That project evolved into a free website to access video, music, lessons, and other elements for use in schools.

Hannah had January 31 declared National Red Scarf Day in Canada to raise awareness of homelessness issues, together with her annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes fundraisers.

She has spoken at more than 350 conferences and events in around the world and her simple message of caring and sharing has been spread to millions of people. Hannah has been recognized for her influence with service and humanitarian awards and received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.

The Manitoba Museum is thrilled to have James Richardson & Sons, Limited as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2020 Tribute Gala.

“Honouring the leaders of tomorrow at the Tribute 2020 Gala is an excellent example of how the Manitoba Museum has devoted 50 years to connecting our past to our future,” says Hartley Richardson, President & Chief Executive Officer of James Richardson & Sons, Limited, noting that his late father, George T. Richardson, was honoured at the first Tribute Gala in 2005. “JRSL is proud to continue our long-standing support of the Manitoba Museum as it educates and enriches our community.”

Proceeds from the Tribute Gala support the Manitoba Museum’s Access for All community initiative, which provides complimentary Museum visits for more than 35,000 individuals living with special circumstances each year. Contributions to the 2020 Tribute Gala will make an impact by helping the Museum create memorable learning experiences that build pride in Manitoba and tell the province’s essential stories, bridging language, culture, ethnicity, and age.

2020 Tribute Gala Honourary Committee
Honourary Chair: James E. Cohen
Emcee: Raif Richardson
  

Members:

Gail Asper
Doneta Brotchie
Bob Cox
Albert El Tassi
Susan Glass
Diane Gray
Gregg Hanson
Mary Hanson
Don Leitch
Nick Logan
Susan Millican
Hartley Richardson
H. Sanford Riley
Paul Samyn
Murray Taylor
Arni Thorsteinson

The 16th annual Tribute Gala will take place in Alloway Hall on April 23, 2020. For information about reserving tables, buying tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and/or to make a donation to the Access for All community initiative, please contact Lynne Stefanchuk 204-988-0629 or email lstefanchuk@manitobamuseum.ca.

Past Tribute Honourees – Winnipeg Free Press (2019); Abdo (Albert) El Tassi & Samira El Tassi (2018); Gregg & Mary Hanson (Ambassadors for Canada 150 Celebration in (2017); Sanford H. Riley (2016); The Winnipeg Foundation (2015); Doug Harvey (2014); Susan Lewis & United Way Winnipeg (2013); Kerry Hawkins (2012); Ambassador Gary Doer (2011); The Chipman Family (2010); Babs & Gail Asper (2009); Kevin & Els Kavanagh (2008); Lawrie Pollard (2007); Murray Taylor & Investors Group Inc. (2006); and George T. Richardson (2005).

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For interviews or more information, contact:
Jody Tresoor
Communications Specialist, Manitoba Museum
w: 204-988-0614 c: 204-228-2374
jtresoor@manitobamuseum.ca

Winnipeg, MB (November 1, 2018): The Manitoba Museum will honour the Winnipeg Free Press at its annual Tribute Gala on April 4, 2019. The annual Tribute celebrates the contributions of individuals and organizations whose leadership and philanthropy have shaped our city and our province. The Winnipeg Free Press has been an integral part of the community representing the hopes, dreams, and ambitions of its readers. It is a leading source of local news, information, and debate and shares Manitoba’s voice on national and international issues. The 146-year-old newspaper will be represented at the Gala by co-owners Robert Silver and Ronald Stern.

Established in 1872, the Winnipeg Free Press is the oldest newspaper in Western Canada. It is two years younger than the province of Manitoba, which joined Confederation in 1870, and two years older than the city of Winnipeg, which was incorporated in 1874. The Museum has had a lasting partnership with the Free Press – editorial coverage, advertising, and unique events such as the Treaty 1 anniversary celebration with the Treaty Commission of Manitoba, Manitoba Business Council, and the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre.

“We are proud to celebrate the newspaper that has been around as long as our community, recording its growth and development, and commenting on issues that affect Manitoba and the world,” says James Cohen, Chair of the Manitoba Museum’s Board of Governors. “The Manitoba Museum is grateful to the people and organizations that support our mission to shape Manitoba’s future by expanding knowledge, sharing stories, and encouraging discovery.”

The Winnipeg Free Press is the largest independent newspaper in Canada. Its majority owners are Ronald Stern and Robert Silver. Ron and Bob both have strong roots in Manitoba. Ron, who was born in Saskatchewan and now lives in Vancouver, maintains ties to Winnipeg, where he was raised. Bob is well-known and respected in the Winnipeg business community and valued as a go-to person for insight, advice, and leadership.

”The personal and corporate philanthropic commitments held by Bob Silver, Ron Stern, and the Winnipeg Free Press encourage positive change and growth in our community,” says Diane Gray. “I am proud to Chair the Tribute 2019 Honourary Committee.”

Each year, the Winnipeg Free Press directly supports more than 100 community organizations with sponsorships and advertising grants, promoting events, causes, and accomplishments that help build the city and province. The list ranges from hospitals, universities, and museums to festivals, the arts, parties, and fun runs. Annually, the newspaper organizes direct fundraising drives to benefit the Christmas Cheer Board, providing Christmas hampers to the needy, and the Manitoba Camping Association, allowing more than 600 youths to go to summer camps. The newspaper is also diligent in its coverage of what is happening locally, publicizing the work of countless groups that contribute to the well-being and vibrancy of Winnipeg.

Visionary ownership, as well as superior editorial and management staff, have provided the Free Press with the journalistic and commercial leadership required to maintain its position as the largest selling newspaper in Manitoba. The newspaper business is a precarious one these days. What newspapers bundled, the internet has unbundled. The internet allows consumers to go directly to their desired content without opening a newspaper. However Ron Stern is proud of the way the Free Press is adjusting to the challenges facing the newspaper industry.

The newspaper has won an award in the Best Use of Mobile category at the INMA Global Media Awards and frequently receives nominations from the National Newspaper Awards, the Canadian Journalism Foundation, the INMA Global Media Awards, and the News Photographers Association of Canada. And in a recent study by the Public Policy Forum, the Winnipeg Free Press is described as “the most innovative and journalistically committed paper in Western Canada.”

Co-owner Ronald N. Stern graduated from the School of Law at the University of British Columbia in 1972. Mr. Stern is the founder and president of Stern Partners, which is involved in the ownership and operation of numerous companies. In addition to supporting various non-profit activities through Western Glove Works, the R & J Stern Family Foundation is an active supporter of a number of cultural, educational, and health organizations in Canada.

Ron serves, or has served, on a variety of corporate and community boards, including the Vancouver Airport Authority, Vancouver East Cultural Centre, Vancouver General Hospital and University of British Columbia Hospital Foundation, Vancouver Symphony Society, Canadian Council of Israel and Jewish Advocacy, Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Vancouver, and Science World British Columbia.

“I am proud of the Winnipeg Free Press and our involvement with it over the past 17 years,” said Ron. “We are committed to preserving the newspaper’s strong traditions of journalistic excellence and community service.”

Bob Silver is President & Co-owner of Western Glove Works Ltd., a family-owned business dating back to 1921. The company markets its well-known Silver Jeans with the motto: “Be present. Be inspired. Be authentic…Be Silver.” The company has distinguished itself as a leader in corporate responsibility by developing a program to ensure awareness of and protection for all basic human rights. Bob is Ron’s partner in Western Glove Works and various other businesses, including Warehouse One, Urban Barn, and Comark retail businesses.

Bob and his businesses are generous supporters of the Manitoba Museum, Assiniboine Park Conservancy, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and the Winnipeg Art Gallery Inuit Art Centre. He serves on the boards of Centre Port Canada, First Peoples Economic Growth Fund, the RBC Convention Centre, Canadian Apparel Federation, Winnipeg Library Foundation, is a past chair of United Way of Winnipeg and is Chancellor of the University of Winnipeg.

Learning they were to be honoured at the Manitoba Museum’s Tribute Gala, Bob Silver, om behalf of himself and Ron Stern, said, “This is an honour shared by everyone who has been associated with the Winnipeg Free Press, from William Luxton and John Kenny, who started the paper in a rented shack on Main Street, to the current staff who work hard every day to build on that tradition.”

Proceeds from Tribute support the Manitoba Museum’s Access for All community initiative, which provides complimentary Museum visits for more than 60,000 individuals living with special circumstances each year. Contributions to Tribute 2019 will provide impact and help the Museum create memorable learning experiences that build pride in Manitoba and tell the province’s essential stories, bridging language, culture, ethnicity, and age.

Tribute 2019 Honourary Committee
Chair:             Diane Gray
Emcee:          Paul Samyn

Members:
Lloyd N. Axworthy, PC C.C. O.M.
Stephen D. Borys
Tony Catanese, CA, CFE, CA-CBV
Kevin Chief
Bob Cox
Sophie Gaulin
Margo Goodhand
Scott Greenlay
Jonathan B. Kroft
Scott MacKay, MA, CMRP
Mariette Mulaire, CITP / FIBP
Hartley T. Richardson, C.M., O.M., LL.D.
H. Sanford Riley, C.M., O.M., LL.D.
Annette Trimbee

The 15th annual Tribute Gala will take place in Alloway Hall on April 4, 2019. For information about reserving tables, buying tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and/or to make a donation to the Access for All community initiative, please contact Jakee Werbuk at 204-988-0629 or email jwerbuk@manitobamuseum.ca.

Past Tribute Honourees – Abdo (Albert) El Tassi and Samira El Tassi (2018); Gregg & Mary Hanson (Ambassadors for Canada 150 Celebration in 2017); Sanford H. Riley (2016); The Winnipeg Foundation (2015); Doug Harvey (2014); Susan Lewis & United Way Winnipeg (2013); Kerry Hawkins (2012); Ambassador Gary Doer (2011); The Chipman Family (2010); Babs & Gail Asper (2009); Kevin & Els Kavanagh (2008); Lawrie Pollard (2007); Murray Taylor & Investors Group Inc. (2006); and George T. Richardson (2005). 

Winnipeg, MB (November 30, 2017): The Manitoba Museum’s annual Tribute Gala will honour Abdo (Albert) El Tassi, C.M., O.M., LL.D. and Samira El Tassi on May 24 at the Museum’s Alloway Hall. The El Tassis are widely known and recognized as sincere, passionate donors. They work tirelessly to promote understanding, tolerance and respect across the globe.

“The Manitoba Museum has a tremendous appreciation for those who support our mission, and great admiration for those who give globally as well as in their home community,” says Scott Craig, Chair of the Manitoba Museum’s Board of Governors. “Albert and Samira El Tassi are such donors. The beginning of their story is similar to that of many people coming to Canada for the opportunities our country has to offer. Their ongoing story of generosity and giving back to the community is an inspiration for us all.”

“The world is a much better place thanks to people like Albert and Samira El Tassi. Children are safer, immigrants are supported, families are hopeful, and businesses are encouraged. The support of their global community, through not only financial contributions but generous donations of their time to non-profit organizations, is truly inspiring,” says Dave Angus. “I am proud to Chair the Tribute 2018 Honourary Committee celebrating the El Tassis and their spirit of community support.”

Learning they were to be honoured at the Manitoba Museum’s Tribute Gala, Albert El Tassi said, “Awards and honours mean so much to us because they can motivate other people to do more and help build their drive to improve communities. We are honoured to be recognized for our work and hope our commitments will encourage others to give back to our community.”

Proceeds from Tribute support the Manitoba Museum’s Access for All community initiative, which provides complimentary Museum visits to more than 60,000 individuals living with special circumstances each year. Contributions to Tribute 2018 will provide impact and help the Museum create memorable learning experiences that build pride in Manitoba and tell the province’s essential stories, bridging language, culture, ethnicity and age.

Mr. El Tassi was born and raised in Kherbetrouha, Lebanon, where he was a schoolteacher and principal. He immigrated to Winnipeg in 1969 and his first job was loading trucks at Peerless Garments. In 1975, he became a proud Canadian citizen.  He continued at Peerless Garments, working his way up until he was appointed General Manager in 1979 and by 2006, he became President and CEO. Since that time he has increased the company’s annual sales from $3 to $45 million. Mrs. El Tassi was born in Brazil. The couple met when Albert was visiting family in Brazil and they married shortly after, in May of 1976. Three years later she became a Canadian citizen.

The El Tassi’ s have four children and eighteen grandchildren of their own, but have made the world their family and have made the education and well-being of the children of the world a top priority in their giving. They have donated millions of dollars to charities dedicated to improving the lives of children including: Free the Children, Sick Kids Foundation, SOS Children’s Villages Canada, UNICEF, Variety: the Children’s Charity, the United Way, World Vision, International Disaster Relief, Winnipeg Harvest, and Habitat for Humanity. They also support organizations that advance human rights such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, University of Manitoba Indigenous Success, the Winnipeg International Storytelling Festival, and many educational institutions.

One of the founders of the Islamic Social Services Association of Manitoba, the Al Hijra Islamic School, the Canadian Islamic Chamber of Commerce and a Mosque in Thompson, Albert and Samira El Tassi are dedicated to their heritage, their faith and their world family. Mr. El Tassi is a member of the Arab Jewish Dialogue group, which helps bolster relations between differing cultures and religions in Canada. They have also sponsored immigrants, providing interest-free loans and university tuition.

Mr. El Tassi’s involvement on corporate and non-profit boards includes: the World Trade Centre, The Winnipeg Foundation, and the Canadian Textile Industry, Manitoba and Winnipeg Chambers of Commerce, Addictions Foundation of Manitoba, St-Boniface Hospital Foundation, and the Canadian Forces Liaison Council.

Mr. El Tassi, with the support of Mrs. El Tassi, has received many awards and honours including: the 2012 Gold Heart Humanitarian of the Year award from Variety, the Children’s Charity of Manitoba, outstanding Philanthropist of the Year in 2013 from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the Orders of Canada and Manitoba, the Canadian Red Cross 2012 Humanitarian of the Year, and Honourary Doctors of Law from University of Manitoba 2013. In recognition of contributions to the community made by their family, a green space on Talbot Avenue was named El Tassi Park in January 2017. Mr. El Tassi was also named Honourary Lieutenant-Colonel of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles and was Honorary Chair of the Manitoba Provincial Committee of the Air Cadet League of Canada. He is the largest personal contributor to the Military Family Fund, which provides support to families of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Tribute 2018 Honourary Committee
Chair: Dave Angus
Members:
Austin C. Abas, FCPA, FCA
Dr. Asim Ashique BSc(Hons), MSc, DC, FCCOS(C)
Gail Asper, O.C., O.M., LL.D.
Mayor Brian Bowman
Doneta Brotchie
Diane Gray
Ibrahim “Obby” Khan, BSc Kin(Hons)
Arthur V. Mauro, O.C., O.M., Q.C.
Larry McIntosh
Priti Mehta-Shah, FCPA, FCA, CBV, CF
Sofia Mirza, BSc (Maj.), BA, LL.B.
Mariette Mulaire, CITP / FIBP
Loren Remillard
H. Sanford Riley, C.M., O.M., LL.D.

The 14th annual Tribute Gala will take place in Alloway Hall on May 24, 2018. For information about reserving tables, buying tickets, Tribute sponsorship opportunities, and/or to make a donation to the Access for All community initiative, please contact Janet Rheault, Corporate Partnerships Manager at 204-988-0629 or email jrheault@manitobamuseum.ca.

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Past Tribute Honourees – Gregg & Mary Hanson (Ambassadors for 2017); Sanford H. Riley (2016); The Winnipeg Foundation (2015); Doug Harvey (2014); Susan Lewis & United Way Winnipeg (2013); Kerry Hawkins (2012); Ambassador Gary Doer (2011); The Chipman Family (2010); Babs & Gail Asper (2009); Kevin & Els Kavanagh (2008); Lawrie Pollard (2007); Murray Taylor & Investors Group Inc. (2006); and George T. Richardson (2005).