2024 Welcoming Ottawa Ambassadors
WOW Ambassador: David Pepper
Nominator: Mohamad
An Activist’s Journey Building Hope for Persecuted LGBTQI+ Refugees
David Pepper has a long history of activism on behalf of LGBTQI+ refugees. In 2011, he took a sabbatical from his work as Director of Community Development at the Ottawa Police Service…
WOW Ambassador: Doreen Katto
Nominator: Nakanjako Njeri
The Multiplier Effect
When Doreen Kato arrived in Canada from Uganda in 2017, she benefitted from the goodwill of strangers who helped her settle into a new life. Doreen joined River Jordan Church, where…
WOW Ambassador: Heather Wacyk
Nominator: Panah Khoshmanesh
A Newcomer’s Remarkable Dedication and Drive
As Heather Wacyk and Panah Khoshmanesh sit in matching lime green armchairs in a back room at The Well, you can feel the warmth of their rapport.
WOW Ambassador: Jacques J.M. Shore, C.M.
Nominator: Walid Naseemi
Making the World a Better Place for Afghan Refugees
When 24 year-old Walid Naseemi nominated Jacques Shore for a 2024 Welcoming Ottawa Ambassador award, he had yet to meet him in person.
WOW Ambassador: Joan Turner and Joe Connor
Nominator: Ketty Nivyabandi
The Gift of Grandparents
Joan Turner and Joe Connor, a retired couple, live in a quiet neighbourhood in the west end of Ottawa. Although they are at a time in their lives, when many chosen to step back, they decided to lend…