The YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg supports the education, training and personal development of staff and volunteers through an annual scholarship program. Successful applicants are awarded their scholarship at the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg’s Annual General Meeting. This year we were proud to support the future academic goals of 10 youth recipients with a $750 scholarship. 

To support the Youth Scholarship Program, donate here.

2026 Scholarship Award Recipients


Front Row: (left to right) Melanie McCreath (Board Member), Tessa Dunbar, Tina Zahradnik, Katya Evzikov, Simone MacFarlane

Back Row: (left to right) Philo Rezk, Jesse Mann, Kaydance Rogowski, Joshua Gandier (Board Member)

Not in attendance: Belen Nunez Romo, Angela Lussier, Leila Ghoraishi

About Our 2026 Scholarship Winners

Tessa Dunbar

(Camp Stephens)

Tessa is a Camp Stephens staff member and is pursuing Environmental Sciences. Tessa began in 2022 and has led wilderness programs and youth leadership initiatives. Tessa designs experiences that build confidence, skills, and environmental awareness. She merges a passion for nature with a strong commitment to youth empowerment.  

Congratulations Tessa!

Tina Zahradnik

(Registration)

Tina is one of our Registration Services staff. She has supported Y Winnipeg for nearly seven years while pursuing an HR Management Certificate. Tina has worked across departments, building internal support and strong staff relationships. She is committed to advancing equitable workplace experiences from within.

Congratulations Tina!
 

Katya Evzikov

(Health, Fitness and Aquatics)

Katya has been an Adult Fitness Service staff member for six years and is studying Nursing. Katya promotes holistic wellness among diverse members. Katya’s transition to nursing reflects a desire to provide culturally aware, community-based healthcare. Her personal growth is deeply aligned with the Y’s values of care and inclusion.

Congratulations Katya!

Simone MacFarlane

(Children's Program)

Simone is currently a Children's Program staff member and is studying Nursing while supporting youth and peers through volunteer mentorship. Simone’s commitment to equity and belonging is grounded in lived experience and resilience. She demonstrates leadership through emotional intelligence, creating welcoming spaces with lasting community impact.

Congratulations Simone!
 

Philopateer (Philo) Rezk

(Health, Fitness and Aquatics)

Philo is a Supervisor on Duty and Fitness Instructor and is studying Law. Philo began as a youth participant and quickly became a staff leader. Philo supports team development, youth leadership, and has legal aspirations rooted in advocacy. He aims to serve on the Y’s Board and expand inclusive leadership.

Congratulations Philo!
 

Jesse Mann

(Membership Services & Experience)

Jesse is a Membership Services & Experience representative and Human Resources student who first connected with the Y as a child and now leads youth programs. Jesse mentors young leaders and builds lasting relationships with members and staff. He is pursuing HR studies to strengthen workplace culture and staff support.

Congratulations Jesse!

Kaydance Rogowski

(Children's Programs)

Kaydance is currently a Children's Program staff member who began as a volunteer and is known for fostering belonging among children. Kaydance leads with emotional maturity and supports youth with additional needs. Pursuing law, she aspires to become a lawyer focused on advocacy and representation. 

Congratulations Kaydance!
 

Belen Nunez Romo

(Child Care)

Belen is a Child Care Supervisor at Building Blocks who brings over 10 years of leadership in early childhood education. Belen models care and accountability while fostering spaces that support development for all children. She is currently pursuing an ECE III to deepen impact and move into a director role. 

Congratulations Belen!

Angela Lussier

(Child Care)

Angela is a Child Care Assistant at Building Blocks who is completing a third term in the ECE Workplace Program. Angela supports inclusive learning environments that integrate diverse needs. She is working toward an ECE III with the goal of leading future-ready early learning programs. 

Congratulations Angela!

Leila Ghoraishi

(Health, Fitness and Aquatics)

Leila is a passionate Swimming Instructor who is studying at the Winnipeg Adult Education Centre and advancing toward lifeguard and instructor certification. Leila inspires confidence and joy in children and families through inclusive, empowering swim lessons. She is a proud first-time scholarship recipient, dedicated to growing with and giving back to the Y Winnipeg community.  

Congratulations Leila!