Eniola Akintola is the founder of David’s Palace, a nonprofit supporting new immigrants, families in need, and individuals navigating hardship in London. Through outreach programs, free seminars for women, and her work as an author, Eniola has dedicated herself to turning pain into purpose and helping others perservere through challenges. A woman of remarkable resilience and compassion, she is a true champion for those who need it most.
Letters of Support: Olajumoke Fashola, Folashade Olokesusi and Ogooluwa Olusakin
Kathy Bell is a founder and current President of Wortley Pride, a volunteer-led, family-focused celebration of London’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies. Since 2021, she has built Wortley Pride into one of London’s signature annual events while championing inclusion and visibility year-round. A change management leader at TD Bank by day, Kathy leads with empathy, courage, and an unwavering commitment to her community.
Letters of Support: Councillor Skylar Franke and Nicole Phillips
Sheila Builder is a passionate advocate for students with disabilities and a valued mentor to educational leaders across Ontario. She serves as TVDSB Superintendent of Student Achievement and is also a colon cancer survivor, who channeled her own experience into organizing London’s Push for Your Tush walk and cancer awareness initiatives across the city. She brings the same integrity, compassion, and dedication to every role she holds.
Letters of Support: Laura Elliott, Valerie Nielsen and Purveen Skinner
Marjorie Curet is a dedicated immigration consultant with over 20 years experience serving multicultural communities. She is an active volunteer with Business and Professional Women London and the Navy League Cadet Corps, where she advocates for women’s rights, mentors youth, and builds connections across communities at local, provincial and national levels. In all her endeavours, Marjorie is committed to fostering inclusive, supportive and empowering environments.
Letters of Support: Lt (NL) Dane Kirilovic, Kathryn Munn and Norma Yau
Mayssa El-Sayegh is a teacher with the Thames Valley District School Board and a dedicated community leader in Hyde Park. Through her involvement with the Muslim Wellness Network and the Hyde Park Business Improvement Association, she mentors youth, fosters inclusion, and builds bridges between diverse organizations and faith communities. A quiet leader who acts not for recognition but because she genuinely cares, Mayssa’s impact is felt by everyone around her.
Letters of Support: Muhammed Hamou and Kate Storen
Kacey Fossungu is a recent Actuarial Science graduate of Western University and a passionate advocate for inclusion in underrepresented fields. Through her leadership with Ethnocultural Support Services and her contributions to diversity initiatives on campus, Kacey has consistently used her platform to ensure others feel seen and valued. Her character, determination and compassion inspire those around her, building confidence and making people believe in themselves.
Letters of Support: Suemai Aka and Mendim Guse
Saveetha Kandasamy is an agricultural scientist with over 15 years of experience advancing sustainable agriculture and supporting farming communities. She is also a dedicated ReForest London volunteer and environmental advocate deeply committed to building a greener and healthier city. Through her leadership, integrity and genuine passion for improving her community, Saveetha serves as a powerful inspiration for women and girls pursuing careers in agriculture and the sciences.
Letters of Support: Rajkumar Chinnadurai, Karen Huiberts and Daina McMurray
Mary-Anne Kechego is a Knowledge Keeper and facilitator of the Kairos Blanket Exercise, dedicated to engaging Londoners in the journey of truth and reconciliation, deepening understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories, and of our collective responsibilities. Drawing on her background in addictions counselling, women’s wellness, and community entrepreneurship, Mary-Anne leads with courage, humility, and an open heart, inspiring others with her resilience and compassion.
Letters of Support: Sr. Kathleen Lichti and Shelley Yeo
Zoe Read is a Grade 12 student at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School, a Principal’s Honour Roll achiever, and elite-level soccer player committed to fostering connection, dignity and belonging. Through her involvement with students with developmental disabilities and the Best Buddies program, and her community engagement promoting women in sport, Zoe is a champion of equity and diversity who encourages and supports her peers to reach their full potential.
Letters of Support: Michelle Kulik Jackson and Cheryl Sywyk
Raji RV is a passionate advocate for women in technology and entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to inclusion and equity. Through her work as an IBM Ambassador, mentor for Western University students and newcomers, and angel investor backing women-led startups, she has spent nearly two decades using her expertise to open doors for others. Raji is a true catalyst for change who leads with empathy and vision.
Letters of Support: Ashwin Balu and Danielle DeVries
Dr. Magdalene Thomas is a professor of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Fanshwe College, who is known for her leadership and scholarship on issues of AI, innovation and emerging technologies. Having built her career across India, Germany, and Canada, she is an inspiring role model for women and newcomers in technology, dedicated to building classrooms and communities where everyone feels seen and empowered.
Letters of Support: Dr. Dev R. Sainani and Syed Mir