2023 Welcoming Ottawa Ambassadors

“Winn Lambert-Meek’s exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community in Ottawa have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the lives of numerous newcomers like me,” says Panah Khoshmanesh.

Panah came to Ottawa in July 2022 as a LGBTQ refugee, originally from Iran. “I was extremely insecure about how I would restart my life as a newcomer,” adds Panah. “I was completely alone here in Ottawa, an unknown city for me. But everything changed when I was introduced to Winn. Winn is respectful and supportive; she has accepted me for who I am.”

Winn rented her basement apartment to Panah and she quickly became much more than a landlord. “Winn was really concerned about my safety as a refugee woman in a new city, with a new culture and language. She become my informal English teacher, Ottawa tour guide, employability mentor, personal counsellor, close friend, second mother and a Welcoming Ottawa Ambassador.”

“When I met Panah, she was staying in a hotel on Montreal Road and I knew that it’s not easy to find affordable housing for newcomers,” remembers Winn. “Most landlords wanted proof of income, but I trusted her. I can’t imagine how it would feel for me to leave everything behind as a refugee. This was a way I could help. Panah is lovely woman and a hard worker. I would hope if I was in her shoes, someone would have done the same for me. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Winn retired in 1994. She volunteers extensively and credits her mother for instilling in her the value of community service. A world traveller, she taught English in China for three months. Last year Winn and a friend started the “Welcome Newcomers – Ottawa (Canada)” Facebook group, which now has close to 2500 members. The Facebook group aims to better integrate newcomers by sharing information about job opportunities, job fairs, free cultural activities and much more. 

When Winn found out that Panah had two degrees in food technology from Iran, she recommended that she enrol in Chef Ric’s free four-month food services training program. “Well, Winn was completely right, that program changed my life,” says Panah, who graduated from the program and now has two jobs in her field. “She is also an amazing cook!” exclaims a smiling Winn.

“I am proud to say that Ottawa opened its doors for me to start my new life in this country,” remarks Panah. “I am also proud of living in a multicultural city where women’s rights are respected. That we all have the same opportunities to work and have a decent life here. But for all of that, I have to give much credit to Winn, as my life would not be the same if I hadn’t met her.”

“I cannot believe that I am a receiving this award,” exclaims Winn. “I still have to pinch myself. Panah has made a big difference in my life too. She’s a nice person, an open friend who is easy to get along with. She is like a daughter to me.