Volunteer of the Year

For more than 27 years, the YWG Goldwings volunteer program has been a warm and welcoming presence at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. With more than 100 dedicated volunteers assisting more than 11,000 passengers daily, the Goldwings provide essential wayfinding support, check-in guidance and customer service, often serving as the first friendly Manitoba welcome for travellers.

Their impact extends beyond routine assistance—whether helping a first-time flyer navigate the terminal or reuniting a passenger with a lost item, the YWG Goldwings go above and beyond to enhance the travel experience. Their dedication was particularly evident when they provided compassionate assistance to more than 300 Ukrainian refugees in 2022.

As ambassadors for Winnipeg, the YWG Goldwings volunteers embody the city’s spirit of hospitality, ensuring that every traveller feels supported and welcomed.

A dedicated volunteer at FortWhyte Alive for 14 years, Nick Sikich has contributed more than 4,000 hours across a wide range of roles. From greeting visitors at the Interpretive Centre to caring for farm animals, leading school programs and guiding canoe tours, Nick’s presence is felt throughout the organization.

Nick’s impact goes beyond his countless hours—his enthusiasm and kindness leave a lasting impression on visitors, many of whom recall special moments spent with him on paddle nights or around a bonfire. His mentorship in the Farm Youth Program has also helped shape countless young participants, teaching them valuable skills in cooking, gardening and woodworking.

A year-round volunteer—even on Christmas Day—Nick is a true ambassador for FortWhyte Alive, making every visitor’s experience special.

For nearly a decade, Jim Sloboda has been the driving force behind the completion of Manitoba’s newest 145-km snowmobile trail connecting Cranberry Portage to Snow Lake. His leadership has not only filled the last missing link in the province’s snowmobile network but has also positioned Manitoba as a premier winter tourism destination.

Jim’s work—ranging from trail design and securing permits to coordinating volunteers and physically building the route—has had a lasting impact. This trail now seamlessly connects Manitoba to the broader North American snowmobile network, opening new tourism opportunities, including guided snowmobile tours to Churchill.

Thanks to Jim’s dedication, Manitoba’s snowmobile industry continues to thrive, generating millions in economic impact while offering world-class trails for enthusiasts across the province and beyond.

When the Friends of Lower Fort Garry faced dissolution in 2013, Dr. Carolyn Weiss stepped in, determined to revive the historic site’s volunteer association. Over the past 11 years, her leadership has transformed the organization into a thriving force–expanding programming, increasing visitor engagement and strengthening financial sustainability.

Dr. Weiss introduced signature events like the Harvest Fest, Winter Holiday Market and an expanded Ghost Tour series, bringing thousands of visitors to the site and raising substantial revenue. Under her guidance, the fort’s gift shop rebranded as Stone Fort Trading Co., quadrupling sales and supporting Manitoba artisans.

Through her vision, dedication and tireless work—often balancing multiple roles—Dr. Weiss has ensured Lower Fort Garry remains a vibrant and engaging destination for both locals and tourists.

For the past eight years, Stan Peck has been the heart of the Boissevain Model Railway Museum, logging more than 1,000 volunteer hours to maintain and expand this beloved exhibit. His expertise and passion have kept the railway running smoothly, providing visitors with a meticulously crafted and engaging experience.

Following the museum’s closure in 2021, Stan played a key role in relocating and rebuilding the exhibit within the Irvin Goodon Wildlife Museum, ensuring its preservation for future generations. He also recruits and mentors new volunteers, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for the railway.

Through his dedication and craftsmanship, Stan has helped make the model railway a key attraction, delighting visitors young and old with its intricate displays and rich history.