President, five alumni among finalists

By Communications Staff

Western President Amit Chakma, along with five Western alumni, have been named finalists for the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award for 2014.

The annual awards, given out by Canadian Immigrant Magazine, in partnership with RBC Royal Bank, since 2009, is the first Canadian national award program that recognizes immigrants’ achievements from all walks of life.

Chakma, who was born in Bangladesh and arrived in Canada in 1983, as chosen as one of 75 finalists from more than 630 nominees by a panel of judges, consisting of Canadian Immigrant Magazine editorial staff as well as immigrant and ethnic community leaders.

Among the Western alumni nominated are Farah Mohamed, MA’96; Towhid Noman, BSc’90; Alan Diner, BA ‘90; Dunstan Peter, BESc’05; and Dr. Surinder Khurana, DDS’06.

“The inspired stories of my fellow finalists are what make up the fabric of this great country and I am truly humbled to be honoured alongside them,” Chakma said. “We are all proud Canadians who are grateful for the opportunities we’ve had to make our lives in a society that celebrates diversity.”

Past RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant award winners include former Governor Generals Adrienne Clarkson and Michaelle Jean; filmmaker Deepa Mehta; CBC’s Ian Hanomansing; and NBA All-Star and philanthropist Steve Nash.

The Top 25 will be determined through online voting until May 15. Winners will be announced in June.