Contest — Our Community Flag Bearers
Congratulations to the winners of our contest!
The following individuals were selected in a random draw from all eligible entries. They will receive a Canadian flag in recognition of their dedication and contributions to their communities. Thank you to everyone who took part in the contest!
Winners
- Alysha Corrigan, Prince Edward Island
- Arne Johnson, British Colombia
- Ashley Adonis-Mbwa, Ontario
- Bilel Letaief, Quebec
- Bindu Bala, Manitoba
- Carol Ann MacDougall, Nova Scotia
- Cheryl A. Cooper, Ontario
- Daksh Maini, Ontario
- Eduardo Oteiza-Hernandez, Quebec
- Gagan Deep Pathania, Manitoba
- Gemma Koughan, Prince Edward Island
- Jaegar King, Ontario
- Janet Todd, New Brunswick
- Julianne Oelke-Simonsen, Ontario
- Kait Neufeld, British Colombia
- Lisa Ellsworth, Nova Scotia
- Muhammad Ahmad, British Colombia
- Nadine Morisset, Quebec
- Nina Ngo, Ontario
- Paula Karina Espinoza Klaric, Quebec
- Pauline Graham, Nova Scotia
- Pauline Johansen, British Colombia
- Peace Ovbiagele, Ontario
- Philippe Dubuc-Blanchard, Quebec
- Pierre Côté, Quebec
- Yvette Adonis, Ontario
Stories
Through this initiative, we received a wide range of inspiring stories from across the country. Each one highlights individuals who proudly embody the values represented by the Canadian flag: respect, inclusion, unity, and community spirit.
These flag bearers, through their everyday actions and commitment to others, demonstrate that the meaning of the flag extends far beyond a symbol; it lives in the people who bring its values to life in communities big and small.
Here are some of these inspiring individuals and their stories.
Patrick Doyle named by Cynthia Taylor, Nova Scotia
“Patrick is a resident of Bedford whose days are devoted to making our community stronger, safer, and more beautiful through his selfless acts of goodwill. He organizes long walks to raise awareness for various causes and shares his routes so neighbours know where to find him along the way. In the spring, he can often be found planting flowers in local parks.
Throughout the year, he offers to take seniors out for lunch, coffee, tea, or a drive, or to help them and people with disabilities with household or yard chores. He also reminds others about our community pantries.
Patrick’s kindness inspires those around him and fosters a warm sense of connection in our growing community. He just announced that he and his wife would be crocheting hats for local seniors as their good deed for the day. He never stops bringing goodwill and joy to our community.”
Tareq Hadhad named by Melissa Grant, Nova Scotia
“I do not know Mr. Hadhad personally. However, as a proud Canadian and Nova Scotian, he immediately came to mind when I saw this contest. He and his family founded Peace by Chocolate, first established in Antigonish and now a thriving Canadian business with a flagship shop in Halifax, where I live.
The Hadhad family arrived in Canada from Syria as refugees in 2016 and have been deeply grateful for the opportunities they found here. Mr. Hadhad is committed to giving back: Peace by Chocolate supports the Peace On Earth Society, which funds peace-building projects around the world.
As an immigrant who works every day to strengthen and connect our communities, he is a wonderful flag bearer and representative of our wonderful nation.”
Sarah Allen named by Stewart Leckie, Ontario
“I am honoured to nominate Sarah Allen as a Community Flag Bearer for her outstanding dedication to public service and her transformative work with Future Leaders Canada. She embodies the values of respect, inclusion, and equity through her commitment to strengthening our community and investing in the next generation.
Through her work, Sarah empowers children to find their voice, think critically, and collaborate across differences, helping build confident and engaged future citizens. She understands that nurturing confident, thoughtful young citizens today means building a stronger, more united Canada tomorrow.
By inspiring young people while serving her community, Sarah multiplies her positive impact and models the unity and respect our flag represents. Rather than simply telling young people what to think, she gives them the tools to think for themselves while remaining open to others' perspectives – a skill desperately needed in today's world. She is a unifying presence who builds bridges, nurtures potential, and strengthens the fabric of our community – an exemplary Community Flag Bearer.”
Scott McPhee named by Teresa Nadon, Ontario
“Scott McPhee is a cornerstone of our community who embodies the core Canadian values of respect, inclusion and dedication. His front yard is a local landmark of community spirit; whether it is Christmas or Remembrance Day, Scott's vibrant display, anchored by the proud Canadian flag on his pole, brings neighbours together and sparks joy for all ages.
Beyond his decorations, Scott's true impact is felt through his tireless service to others. As a mechanic, he is the first person neighbours turn to for trusted advice. He also volunteers regularly by driving seniors to medical appointments and community events, helping them stay connected and supported. A talented musician, Scott also generously shares his gift by playing guitar and singing at community events and for elders, providing entertainment and comfort entirely for free.
Scott's selflessness and ability to inspire others make him an ideal Community Flag Bearer. He doesn't just fly the flag; he lives out the solidarity and kindness it represents every single day.”
Marie-Andrée Foucreault-Therrien named by Mirabelle Kelly, Quebec
“Marie-Andrée Foucreault-Therrien is my idol. I met her four years ago when she was the leader of the Mères au Front group in the Eastern Townships and came to lend a hand to a group of citizens who wanted to protect a natural area.
Despite hardship and illness, she has continued to fight for better land protection and for friendship with First Nations. She brings people together, and she is always kind, inspiring and generous. She is a role model for all of us.”
Linda Hickey named by Nate Hammond, Newfoundland and Labrador
“Linda Hickey is a respected cultural leader whose lifelong commitment to the community, heritage, and the arts reflects core Canadian values of dedication, inclusion, perseverance, respect, and solidarity. Through decades of work in museums, music, and community-based cultural initiatives, she has strengthened local identity while fostering pride and connection across generations.
Linda champions the preservation of Canada’s social and industrial history, ensuring the stories of working people and resource-based communities are honoured and shared. Her inclusive approach brings together seniors, youth, volunteers, artists, and community organizations, creating welcoming spaces and reinforcing the belief that culture belongs to everyone.
Her work illustrates how culture can be a powerful tool for connection, healing, and understanding. By dedicating her life to strengthening communities through creativity and heritage, Linda exemplifies the values that define Canada and inspire others to contribute positively to society.”
Mustafa Alshardoub named by Malak Al Shardoub, Ontario
“My brother Mustafa is a role model in his community, embodying resilience, integration, and a deep sense of responsibility toward others. He arrived in Canada about a year and a half ago as a person with a physical disability, while also facing the challenges of displacement and integration as a refugee. Yet, he chose active engagement over withdrawal. From the outset, he focused on giving back through community service, quickly building trust and supporting other newcomers by sharing guidance and lived experience.
His disability has strengthened his commitment to inclusion and accessibility, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued, especially youth and people with disabilities. Academically, he has earned Excellence Awards from the University of Toronto, recognizing his perseverance, discipline, and positive impact.
In a relatively short time, he has transformed personal challenges into meaningful contributions, choosing to give back to Canada through daily actions rooted in inclusion, perseverance, respect, and solidarity.”
Mark Mannisto named by Angel Mannisto, Ontario
“Mark Mannisto is a role model in the Greater Sudbury community, leading with compassion and an unwavering belief in the power of the arts to unite people. As founder of the Sudbury Performance Group (SPG), he has transformed creativity into meaningful community impact.
Through accessible programming and performance opportunities, Mark creates safe, welcoming spaces where children and youth can build confidence and discover their voices. For many children, SPG is more than an arts organization – it’s a place where they are seen, encouraged, and inspired to believe in their potential. Mark is also a tireless advocate for local artists, ensuring they are respected and fairly compensated, with SPG providing paid opportunities to more than 250 local performers each year, strengthening the cultural life and economy of Northern Ontario.
He consistently finds new ways to showcase local talent, develop festivals and productions, and ensure that arts and culture remain vibrant and accessible in the community. Through his leadership, Mark has proven that when you invest in people – especially young people and local artists – you invest in a stronger, more connected community.”
Nina Ngo named by Jaegar King, Ontario
“Nina makes a meaningful impact in the Windsor, Ontario community through her positivity, kindness, and genuine love for where she lives. She has become a familiar and uplifting presence by supporting local businesses, sharing community news, and creating social media videos that bring people together. She highlights local markets, artists, and sports teams like the Windsor Express and the Windsor Spitfires, encouraging residents to support their community.
She also shares her experiences in a way that feels authentic and relatable, helping to build a strong sense of connection. Nina has created many videos celebrating different cultures and communities, including participating in cultural festivals such as the Carousel of Nations, where she showcases traditions from many backgrounds.
Nina also gives back whenever she can. She volunteers and supports initiatives such as toy donation drives during the winter holidays to help children in need. She doesn’t just promote events online—she shows up in person, supports them, and encourages others to do the same.
Through her dedication, kindness, and passion for her community, Nina inspires others to support local initiatives, celebrate diversity, and spread positivity. She truly represents Canadian values such as inclusion, respect, and caring for one another, and is a role model to many in Windsor.”