Dating back to 2007, three people in Manitoba are recognized every year for making key contributions to their community through the Future Leaders of Manitoba program.
Nominees come together at a banquet each January where three different nominees are given an award for their outstanding impact.
In the 20-26-year-old age category this year, Brandon University’s Whitney Hodgins won the award for the first time in her life. The 25-year-old has made a great difference in Brandon when it comes to disability, mental health, and justice.
Whitney was first nominated for the award a couple of months ago by a faculty member at BU. The process included video interviews, an interview in front of a judging panel and it all added up to the awards evening.
It wasn't until January 30 that Whitney found out she was the winner in her age group.
"There are a lot of emotions that come to mind. When my name was called, I couldn't believe it, it was like that feeling when you see a deer on the road," said Hodgins. "It's a big accomplishment and it's great to know that the work I'm doing has been recognized, it's a special feeling."
This isn't only Hodgins' first time winning the award, but it's also a first for Brandon University. The 25-year-old became the first student at BU to win the award in its school's illustrious history.
Hodgins is also one of just a few people that have ever won the award in rural Manitoba since the inception of the Future Leaders of Manitoba program.
"It's nice to know that my work is being recognized within the community," added Hodgins. "It's cool to see that people in rural Manitoba can win this award and not only people in Winnipeg, it shows that the entire province of Manitoba has come a long way."
Whitney will now continue with her work in Brandon and she's hoping more students at Brandon University get nominated moving forward and she knows that's something that can happen.
"I believe because I'm the first Brandon University student ever to win this, it's going to push others to continue with their work," concluded Hodgins. "So many people do such great work and they deserve to be recognized."
