Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Twenty immigrants living in Alberta have been recognized for their contributions to communities across the province through the 2026 Alberta Immigrant Impact Awards.
The annual awards highlight people who were born outside Canada and have gone on to make a meaningful difference in Alberta through their careers, businesses, creative work, charitable activities and community involvement.
The recipients come from a variety of professional and personal backgrounds, reflecting the diverse ways newcomers have become involved in communities throughout Alberta. Their work ranges from entrepreneurship and innovation to artistic expression and leadership in local initiatives.
Associate Minister of Multiculturalism Muhammad Yaseen congratulated this year’s recipients, saying their achievements demonstrate the opportunities available to people who choose Alberta as a place to establish their lives and contribute to the wider community.
Unlike awards based solely on professional success, the Alberta Immigrant Impact Awards recognise contributions made in a range of settings. Nominees are put forward by fellow Albertans, with the program designed to acknowledge individuals whose efforts have strengthened communities or created opportunities for others.
Among this year’s honourees is Rishi Nagar, who described the recognition as a deeply meaningful moment. Nagar said his work has focused on telling community stories, giving people a platform and helping bring individuals together.
The awards are divided into eight categories, allowing Alberta to recognise achievements across different areas of public and community life. Recipients represent a broad mix of professions, experiences and cultural backgrounds.
To be eligible, nominees must have been born outside Canada and currently hold either permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship.
The provincial government says the awards also reflect Alberta’s growing role as a destination for people from around the world. Newcomers bring professional expertise, entrepreneurial ideas and community experience that can contribute to the province’s economic and social development.
For the 20 people recognised this year, the awards serve as acknowledgement not only of their individual accomplishments but also of the wider impact immigrants are having in communities across Alberta.
The 2026 recipients collectively underscore how newcomers are helping shape the province’s workplaces, institutions and neighbourhoods while building new lives for themselves and their families.
