Daniela Ruiz Fernandez, a graduate of the Social Innovation and Community Development Program with a major in Indigenous Social Enterprise, is a passionate community advocate from Peru, dedicated to fostering well-being, inclusion, and cultural exchange through volunteerism. With a background in humanitarian clowning and yoga instruction, she has supported children’s emotional development through initiatives like PayaSOS, ConPazion, and the online program Yo Cuento. After moving to Canada in 2023 to study at RRC Polytech, Daniela co-founded the Intercultural Alliance Student Club and served as Treasurer, promoting peer support and cultural dialogue. Her volunteer work spans diverse causes — from empowering women and gender-diverse individuals at The WRENCH to mentoring newcomer youth with NEEDS. She also shares her heritage through Peruvian dance performances. Daniela’s journey reflects a deep commitment to empathy, creativity, and community building, enriching every space she joins.

Deborah Modupe, a graduate of the Disability and Community Support Program, is a compassionate caregiver and community advocate whose journey began in Nigeria, where she cared for her grandmother with dementia. This early experience sparked a deep commitment to supporting others, leading her to volunteer in homes for older adults and later work with individuals with disabilities. Her desire to gain formal training inspired Deborah to move to Canada to study Disability and Community Support at RRC Polytech. Deborah volunteers at St. Amant as a Recreational Volunteer and at New Covenant Church, where she supports children and parishioners. Her experiences have shaped her into a resilient, empathetic, and skilled community member. Deborah’s story is one of courage, growth, and unwavering dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Yanna Polonia Gutierrez, a graduate of the Data Science and Machine Learning program,  excels in her academic pursuits while balancing working full-time with a full family life. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Yanna brings resilience, discipline, and a passion for learning to everything she does. She exemplifies academic excellence and time management, while maintaining a 4.5 GPA. Yanna’s commitment to personal and professional growth extends beyond the classroom – she actively pursues industry certifications to complement her education and prepare for a dynamic career in technology. Yanna is also a committed community volunteer, contributing over 60 hours annually to the Assiniboine Conservatory Park and supporting initiatives like Harvest Manitoba, Inspire Conference, and RRC Ready. Her journey reflects a deep belief in the power of education, service, and perseverance to create lasting impact for her family and community.