NAMI NEWSLETTER 225 January 11 2026

The Nigerian Association of Manitoba Inc. (NAMI) is proud to celebrate Oyíndàmólá Aláká, who has been recognized as a 2025 Manitoba Mosaic Award recipient in the Young Bridge Builder category.

The Young Bridge Builder Award honours outstanding young leaders under the age of 29 who are creating meaningful connections across cultures and generations while advancing inclusion and understanding within Manitoba. Oyíndàmólá’s recognition reflects years of intentional, community-centered work rooted in service, collaboration, and advocacy. Her community engagement began long before this moment of recognition. As a young newcomer who immigrated to Winnipeg from Lagos, Nigeria, in 2012, she experienced firsthand the challenges and possibilities that come with settlement and integration. These lived experiences shaped her deep commitment to ensuring that newcomers, youth, and underrepresented voices are not only welcomed, but meaningfully included in leadership spaces.

Since her days as a student at Fort Richmond Collegiate, she has consistently worked to build bridges across cultures and generations. Her efforts have focused on nurturing inclusive spaces, supporting youth and newcomer leadership, and strengthening collaboration across communities. True to her character, much of this work has been done quietly behind the scenes, driven by purpose rather than recognition.

This award affirms the impact of Oyíndàmólá’s approach to leadership. One grounded in empathy, intentionality, and action. It also reinforces the importance of creating pathways for voices that are often missing from decision making tables. As a young leader, she continues to advocate for not just representation, but the genuine integration of youth and newcomer perspectives into policies, programs, and strategic decisions.

NAMI is especially proud to have nominated Oyíndàmólá Aláká, for this prestigious honour. Her work exemplifies the values of service, excellence, and community upliftment that our association strives to promote. Her achievement is not only a personal milestone, but a moment of pride for the Nigerian community in Manitoba.

We extend our congratulations to Oyíndàmólá Aláká, and our gratitude to the Government of Manitoba, the Honourable Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration, and all partners involved in championing inclusion through the Manitoba Mosaic Awards.

On behalf of the Nigerian Association of Manitoba Inc., we celebrate Oyíndàmólá for her leadership, her humility, and her unwavering commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of her work and are honoured to stand beside her on this journey.