Our 2025 Nominees
Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award presented by Steam Est. Industries
Rebecca Fedyk
Rebecca is a passionate coach, mentor, mother, and community leader who has played a foundational role in developing competitive gymnastics in Estevan. As a wife and mom, she balances family life with her dedication to the sport, always showing up with positivity, patience, and drive.
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Rebecca helped build the competitive gymnastics program in Estevan from the ground up. She has served on the board of directors, led fundraising efforts, and was instrumental in securing a permanent facility — giving athletes a stable, safe, and inspiring place to train and grow. Her love for gymnastics is matched only by her commitment to the young girls she coaches, mentoring them in sport and in life.
As both a leader and a role model, Rebecca continues to grow as a coach and person, setting a powerful example for the athletes she works with. Her work doesn’t stop when practice ends — she is deeply invested in the future of her club and community, and it shows in every interaction.
Sydney Wanner
Born and raised in Estevan, Sydney Wanner has always had a passion for wellness, sport, and working with children and youth. She is currently the Executive Director of the Estevan Early Years Family Resource Centre (EEYFRC) and also serves the community as a CanFit Pro certified personal trainer, Yinyasa Yoga for Youth teacher, and reiki practitioner.
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Over the past decade, Sydney has shared her skills in schools, daycares, and community spaces across Estevan. She coaches girls’ basketball from Grade 8 to senior high, serves as a dryland coach for multiple teams, and runs a reiki practice for both kids and adults. She’s also created inclusive programs like Stroller Squad and Skate with Syd, and implemented a lending library of sports equipment to promote equity in access to play.
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Beyond her roles at the Centre, Sydney is a dedicated volunteer and an integral part of countless community efforts. She sits on the Community Wellness Board, attends interagency meetings, and consistently steps up to support causes and initiatives that make Estevan stronger. Her energy, leadership, and compassion make her not only a mentor to youth but a connector and changemaker for the broader community.
Maureen Ulrich
Maureen Ulrich, educator, author, playwright and all-around sports enthusiast joined our Lampman community in 1980. With the support of her family; Randy, Robin and Blaire; Maureen has shared her talents with various organizations while teaching in a full time capacity.
Lampman community Theatre was born in 1997 and in 2024 staged its 20th production with original scripts featuring local talent that has blossomed under Maureen's mentorship. She has also shared these gifts with Souris Valley Theatre developing the next generation of performers. Her musical talent extends beyond theatre to include her church community as organist along with spearheading the lay services. Our local library is fortunate to have Maureen serve on our board, providing an author's voice in board matters and book club. During COVID Maureen was part of a group that saw a need and established the Lampman Food Bank for those in our community that were struggling. Her commitment to our community is inspiring. If there is a job to do, whether it is fundraiser for recreation facilities or mentoring young readers, Maureen is all in. Maureen is community.
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Debbie Wade
Debbie Wade is an individual who has demonstrated exceptional involvement and commitment to the southeast Saskatchewan community of Estevan. Debbie moved to Estevan in the summer of 2013 and quickly became involved in many activities and organizations. Through her continuous volunteer efforts across various sectors, including athletics, the arts, community fundraising, the Estevan Bruins and the Estevan Legion, Debbie has significantly enhanced the experiences of many, the vitality of our city and served as an example of selflessness and kindness.
Crystal Ross
Crystal Ross is the kind of person who makes a community stronger just by being in it. A proud mother of two daughters and wife to Chad Ross, she helps run their fourth-generation cattle ranch near Estevan, Saskatchewan. Deeply rooted in agriculture, she is a fierce advocate for sustainable ranching and the Canadian beef industry. As President of the Estevan Exhibition Association, and volunteer for so much more, Crystal pours her heart into organizing events that bring people together. But beyond titles and roles, she is a giver—someone who steps up whenever there’s a need, dedicating her life to helping others and strengthening her community.
Brittney Brokenshire
Brittney Brokenshire lives in Estevan with her husband Ben and their two daughters, Grace and Olivia. She works at Kingston Midstream and enjoys reading, traveling, spending time outdoors, and being with her animals and family. While her personal and professional lives are full, Brittney still makes giving back to her community a top priority.
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A passionate volunteer and community builder, Brittney actively supports and leads numerous local initiatives. She serves on several boards, including the United Way of Estevan, where she currently sits as 2nd Vice President and is the incoming President for 2025. She’s also a key leader with the Hillcrest Breakfast Program and serves as Vice Chair of the School Community Council.
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Brittney is known for stepping up wherever she’s needed — often without recognition or praise. Her values of compassion, humility, and hard work shine through in everything she does, and her commitment continues to inspire others across Estevan to do the same.
Shannon Culy
Shannon is currently the program manager and Interventionist for the Early Childhood Intervention Program, focusing on families with children under 6 yrs of age who are at risk of developmental delays. Shannon visits many homes and works with families not only in Estevan, but throughout the Southeast. She assists pre-school aged children in order to maximize the development prior to entering the school system. Shannon is also heavily involved with the Estevan Aquatics programs. As a volunteer coach for the Estevan Mermaids, she spends countless hours devoted to the empowerment and development of the girls in the program.
Innovative Leadership Award presented by Southern Plains Co-op
Cea Anna Kerr
Cea Anna Kerr is a retired SaskPower employee who proudly served as a Purchasing Agent for 22 years. In 2017, she co-founded Studio C 24 Hour Fitness, bringing her passion for health and wellness to the Estevan community as a successful entrepreneur and fitness leader. Cea Anna holds the distinction of being Saskatchewan’s first IFBB Professional Athlete. Over her competitive career, she has taken the stage at 30 IFBB Pro shows, achieving ten top-10 finishes and five top-5 placements. She is also Saskatchewan’s first and only athlete to win a pro show in Women’s Physique and compete at the Mr. Olympia — the most prestigious event in bodybuilding. Earlier in her career, she appeared in the 1997 and 1998 Fitness America Pageants, broadcast on ESPN.
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Beyond fitness, Cea Anna is passionate about cycling, gardening, and animal rescue. She is a strong advocate for women’s rights and lives her life guided by faith, determination, and a deep desire to inspire others. Whether she’s leading a workout or encouraging someone to chase their goals, Cea Anna brings unmatched passion, positivity, and resilience to everything she does.
Kamri Olfert
Born and raised in Estevan, Kamri is deeply rooted in her community, where she has chosen to establish her business. Growing up, she learned resilience early when her father was diagnosed with cancer, shaping her drive and commitment to giving back. Kamri’s childhood was filled with hunting, camping, and volunteering. She was active in the hockey community and took on a leadership role in her final years of play.
Graduating from ECS with a 96% average, she moved to Calgary to pursue further education. Within a month of graduating, she launched Pureskin by Kam, following in the footsteps of the strong female entrepreneurs in her family. She recently celebrated her business’s second anniversary.
Elicia Krupka
Elicia Krupka is the co-owner of The Black Grasshopper in Estevan, a restaurant and gathering space known for its incredible service, warm atmosphere, and community involvement. After homeschooling her children, Elicia returned to the workforce as a server — and quickly became everyone’s favourite for her infectious energy and genuine kindness. It didn’t take long for others to see that her true gift was leadership.
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Since purchasing the Grasshopper with her husband, Elicia has created a workplace culture rooted in support, excellence, and care. Whether she’s behind the bar, in the kitchen, or running a packed community event, she leads by example — and her passion radiates through her staff. Under her leadership, the Grasshopper has become more than a restaurant. It’s a community hub, a training ground for young professionals, and a place where everyone feels like they belong. Elicia’s entrepreneurial journey is proof that kindness and innovation can go hand in hand — and that leadership, at its best, changes everything.
Young Visionary Award presented by Impact Creative Digital Services
Prysm Gooding
Prysm Gooding is a graduating student from ECS who is a wonderful young lady that works hard at any activity or project she attempts. Prysm interests include team sports such as competing on the ECS Senior Girls Basketball Team, ECS Girls Soccer Team and Estevan Minor Softball. She is an eager volunteer with being involved as the President of our Student Representative Council at the Estevan Comprehensive School, Queens of the Court Basketball Camp for girls in grade 5-8, and ECS SHOUTS program. When Prysm is not busy with her activities, she can be found working at Encompass and RPG Spraying, fixing her Endoro car with her dad, umpiring softball, refereeing elementary basketball or hunting in Northern Saskatchewan. Prysm's determination and dedication has helped her achieve her many goals and contribute to her community. She has recently been accepted to the University of Regina enrolled in the combined degree program of Education and Kinesiology.
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Kerison Burnett
Kerison is a caring, outgoing Grade 12 student at ECS. At school, she focuses on academics and has been awarded for her effort. Kerison loves reading, photography, and dance. She excels in ballet and highland and helps younger dancers develop their skills. She showcases her leadership with the SRC, ECS SADD chapter, and as the stage manager for the ECS production of Mamma Mia! She loves tackling new challenges such as the University of Regina Honour Band and the RCMP Youth Advisory Committee. Kerison plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan this fall.
Outstanding Contribution to the Workplace Award presented by TS&M Supply
Donna George
Born and raised in Estevan, Donna’s deep love for her community has led her to raise her own family here. As the middle of five siblings, she is the rock of her family—coordinating medical appointments for her parents, supporting her brothers and their families, and always being the one they count on.
Beyond her family, Donna’s generosity extends to her community. Whether volunteering at the rink, preparing chemo treatments before her workday, or cooking meals for those in need, she gives selflessly. At her core, Donna is authentic, compassionate, and unwavering in her commitment to others.
Shelagh Eskra
Shelagh Eskra is the vice principal at Spruce Ridge School in Estevan. She has an amazing family, including her husband and two children. Shelagh is very involved in the community with the music festival, children’s sports and dance as well as many good friends. Shelagh has a career and manages to continue her education while juggling everything else gracefully.
Lianne Kenler
Lianne was born, raised, and educated in Redvers, SK, where she graduated in 1985. She pursued her passion for early childhood education and psychology, earning a Special Care Aid certification from college, as well as a Teachers Associate Diploma. Lianne furthered her education at the University of Fredericton, obtaining her CHSEP (Certified Health Safety and Environmental Practitioner) certification.
She works for Preferred Energy as their Safety Manager.
Lianne gives back to her community through extensive volunteer work. She served as Vice President and Board Member of the Redvers Recreation Center for six years, where she played a pivotal role in completing the addition to the rink and the construction of a new pool. Her focus on the arts was evident through her seven years on the Arts Center/Movie Theatre Fundraising Committee. Additionally, Lianne contributed to the Early Childhood Intervention Program (ECIP) Board for four years, and participated in the Drama Committee for nine years, both acting and fundraising. Her volunteer efforts also extended to hockey school and Can Skate, where she dedicated four years of service.
Outside of her professional and volunteer endeavors, Lianne is an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys a wide range of hobbies. She has a passion for broomball, curling, hockey, fastball, hiking, skiing, hunting, fishing, golf, sledding, running marathons, landscaping, and gardening. Lianne's diverse experiences and commitment to her community make her a remarkable individual deserving of this award.
Angela Smeltzer
Angela Smeltzer is a lighthouse, illuminating paths of lifelong learning through passion, realism, and unwavering dedication. Starting her teaching journey in Ontario, Angela courageously relocated with her family to Saskatchewan in 1990, embracing Estevan since the nineties, and Pleasantdale Elementary School since 2002. With expertise spanning kindergarten to grade eight, Angela skillfully manages diverse split-grade classrooms, integrating Response to Intervention (RTI) strategies to support each student's unique academic and personal growth. Her RTI experience underscores her ability to foster inclusive, responsive learning environments. Angela’s steadfast commitment, coupled with a realistic and compassionate approach, continues to inspire students toward bright, successful futures.
Brenda Mantei
Brenda Mantei is a resident of Estevan and has been her entire life. She farms and ranches south of Estevan with her husband, Cecil. It is there that they raised three children. Her two daughters and one son live within a stone’s throw away from her and have blessed her with twelve grandchildren that she is passionately involved with everyday.
Along with being the Estevan Exhibition Association’s secretary and treasurer she manages books for numerous other organizations and businesses. Currently she owns and manages Matt’s Car Wash with her brothers, keeping this business in the family that was established by their parents in 1980.
Brenda is a dedicated, yet extremely humble, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, business owner/partner, and volunteer.
Maribel Cabezudo
Maribel Cabezudo was born in Lima-Peru. She went to school and university where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education. She travelled to New York to live and took courses at ManhattanVille College.
After 2 years she travelled back to Lime-Peru. She taught English in schools and language centers, and got her master’s degree in university teaching.
Maribel came to Saskatchewan in 2012. She started her path in early education in 2013 where worked at the Estevan Daycare Co-operative. Two years later she started to work as a full-time educator at Arcola Daycare. June 2022 she stepped up to the supervising role. June 2024 she became the director.
Equity and Inclusion Award (Non-traditional, Overcoming Barriers) presented by Saskatchewan Blue Cross
Kari Lawrence
Kari Lawrence grew up on a farm outside Moose Jaw and was introduced to the trades at age 10 through her father, a flooring installer. She spent her youth working hands-on jobs and developed a deep passion for the construction industry — especially shingling, siding, painting, and drywall finishing. After moving to Estevan 16 years ago, Kari continued her journey in the trades, starting as a labourer with Sector 1 Construction in her early 30s. Through hard work, technical expertise, and natural leadership, she rose to foreman and eventually became General Manager of First General Estevan, a subsidiary of Sector 1. In an industry still dominated by men, Kari has consistently broken down barriers and challenged expectations — not only by earning her place, but by showing others what’s possible.
Kari is a proud mom to Jesi, Jace, and bonus kids Phoenix and Hunter. She shares her life with her partner Mike and their dog Siris. Whether she’s snowmobiling, crafting, or cooking for her family, Kari brings the same passion and care to her personal life that she brings to work — leading with strength, compassion, and authenticity in everything she does.
Desiree De Silva
Desiree DaSilva is a passionate community builder in Estevan, committed to making the city more inclusive, active, and connected. She works in two senior care homes, curls weekly, and will begin teaching youth curling next year — all while raising her family and showing up consistently for her community.
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Desiree is the founder of Estevan Southern Impact, the city’s first arm wrestling club, where she not only trains but creates a safe, empowering space for youth and adults alike. She's been featured on the radio and in local news, building awareness for a sport not traditionally associated with women — let alone women in leadership. Through every initiative she joins, Desiree quietly challenges stereotypes and barriers. Her work across sport, caregiving, and youth mentorship shows that leadership comes in many forms — and she embraces all of them. Whether she’s fundraising, mentoring, or volunteering, Desiree’s driving goal is clear: build a more inclusive, connected, and vibrant Estevan.
