Dr. Salim Yusuf – Lifetime Achievement

Dr. Salim Yusuf, a renowned cardiologist and global health researcher, has received numerous awards for his outstanding contributions to the field. Notably, he has been honored with the Canada Gairdner Wightman award and is a member of the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. His many achievements include founding and leading the Heart Failure Society of America, publishing hundreds of influential papers, and training the next generation of researchers. Dr. Yusuf’s dedication to establishing global programs for heart disease prevention has had a profound impact on the world community. He is a true leader in his field and a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Baldev Mutta – Lifetime Achievement Special Jury (Community Engagement)

Baldev Mutta, founder and CEO of Punjabi Community Health Services (PCHS), is a community leader and social activist who has dedicated his career to improving the health and well-being of the South Asian community. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the Ontario Premier’s award for Community Service and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Under his leadership, PCHS has undertaken sustainable initiatives, such as programs for the homeless in Peel region. During the pandemic, PCHS played a vital role in running a 24/7 Isolation and Recovery center for Covid-positive patients, advocating for equitable vaccine distribution, and raising awareness of the pandemic’s impact on vulnerable populations.

Susamma Dean Kannampuzha – Lifetime Achievement Special Jury (Nursing)

Susamma Dean Kannampuzha has dedicated her life to the nursing profession for over four decades. As a registered nurse and secretary of the Canadian Malayalee Nurses Association, she has advanced the profession and promoted nurses’ welfare. She also serves as senior citizen activities President of the Syro Malabar Catholic Church in Mississauga, impacting her community. During the pandemic, Susamma selflessly helped those in need, providing transportation and assisting with hospital and doctor visits. Her kindness extends to new immigrants, providing them with food, clothes, and transportation. Susamma is an exceptional example of community engagement, leaving a legacy that inspires and uplifts others.

Dr. Nigil Haroon – Best Doctor

Dr. Nigil Haroon, an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, is a renowned physician scientist and healthcare leader. As President of the Canadian Rheumatology Association, he’s a leading expert in Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) and has made significant contributions to the field. Dr. Nigil’s work has been recognized with awards in the USA and Canada. His population study highlighted the increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in AS patients, leading to international treatment changes. He’s published over 100 research papers with 6600 citations. Dr. Nigil provides exceptional clinical care and conducts innovative research. He’s a sought-after speaker at international forums.

Dr. Krishna Kumar Nair – Leadership

Dr. Krishnakumar Nair, Academy of Master Clinicians inductee, is a highly respected physician recognized for exceptional patient care and teaching. As the University Health Network Electrophysiology Fellowship Program Director, he introduced innovative educational programs, combining adult education and behavioral learning techniques. Dr. Nair’s teaching philosophy creates a dynamic learning environment, integrating problem-solving approaches. He received academic recognition for outstanding bedside, clinic, and didactic seminar teaching. Dr. Nair’s dedication to creating a unique and adaptive educational experience enriches the knowledge and skills of students and serves as a model for other educators.

Rachel Mathew – Special Jury (Leadership)

Rachel Mathew, a registered nurse and midwife, moved to Canada over 50 years ago and has worked in various nursing roles across cities and hospital settings. As director of nursing, she played a crucial role in expanding a 36-bed hospital in Fort McMurray to 300 beds, incorporating state-of-the-art facilities.

Rachel’s leadership skills extend beyond healthcare. She is the Vice President of the Kerala Cultural Association in Edmonton, currently leading a $4 million building project that will have a lasting impact on future generations. Rachel’s commitment to community service and dedication to improving the lives of those around her make her an exceptional leader and deserving of this special jury award.

Kenisha Arora – Youth Icon

Kenisha Arora, a Medical Science student at Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine, is a youth icon who has made a significant impact in the community. As the youngest member of the United Nations SDG #4 High-Level Committee, she delivered a powerful speech calling for transformation in education. She founded The Hope Sisters, a non-profit inspiring over 5000 people to join the cause. Kenisha has been featured on Forbes, won the $100,000 Global Student Prize, and the Princess Diana Award. She aspires to become a cardiothoracic surgeon and is also a Senator and Board of Governors at her University.

Bindu Thomas Mekkunnel – Best Nurse

Bindu Thomas Mekkunnel, a registered nurse in the Cardiology Unit at Trillium Health Partners, has served in the healthcare sector for nearly 25 years. She received an award for her nursing practice in the Trillium Hospital Cardiology unit in 2020. Bindu has hosted talk shows on health education as an RJ and arranged home care services to facilitate patient safety and self-management, thus preventing frequent hospital admissions. She is active in the community as a dance instructor, drama director, makeup artist, and passionately mentors students and new employees.

Mahesh Mohan – Special Jury (Nursing)

Mahesh Mohan, a critical care and emergency nurse for 8 years at Scarborough General Hospital, received the Special Jury Award for Nursing. As the first Indian Local Unit Secretary of the Ontario Nurses Association, he introduced live-streaming of association meetings for nurses to share concerns during the pandemic. He worked 16-hour days to cover staff shortages at SHN, one of the most affected hospitals in Canada. Besides his nursing duties, he was a finalist in a North American singing competition during the pandemic. Mahesh also volunteers at a long-term care centre. His dedication to nursing and his community make him a modern-day “nightingale.”

Christin John – Covid Warrior

Christin John, a registered pharmacist and entrepreneur, owns two Drug marts providing essential medical services. Her stores have become a lifeline for rural communities with a combined annual revenue of $20 million. She has organized numerous events such as free diabetic, blood pressure, and women’s health clinics in her township. She is a trusted healthcare provider and has made arrangements to deliver essential items for free alongside crucial medications. Her stores are great places for employment, providing opportunities for her team to make a difference.

Thanal Canada – Special Jury (Covid Warrior)

Thanal Canada is a non-sectarian organization that assists the poor and ailing in the Indian community. Members donate $10 or more per month, which is used to help individuals or families in need. During Covid, Thanal Canada helped over 60 individuals in India and Canada by reimbursing them $450 each towards their medical treatment, totaling two million Rupees. They also provided financial aid to international students and distributed food kits to those in need. Thanal Canada’s commitment to helping those in need during difficult times has earned them the Special Jury Award for Covid Warrior.

Samanwaya Canada – Healthcare Heroes

Samanwaya Canada, a cultural organization with committees in Ontario and Alberta, helped those affected by COVID-19 by setting up help desks in four Canadian provinces. They raised funds and donated over 8,58,000 Rs to the Indian Prime Minister’s and Kerala Chief Minister’s relief funds. Additionally, they aided international students by delivering essential food and sanitary items. Samanwaya Canada’s efforts extended beyond the Keralite community, demonstrating their commitment to assisting all those in need during the pandemic.

Dennis John – Special Jury (Healthcare Heroes)

Dennis John is a mental health therapist serving young children with complex behavior and mental health issues in Alberta. He has worked with the First Nations people for three years, developing trusting relationships with indigenous youth and becoming more adaptive and approachable. Dennis pays special attention to every young child, assisting many in challenging circumstances.

During the pandemic, he educated communities, particularly about the importance of immunization. Dennis collaborated with healthcare professionals and groups to help infants and those in life-threatening situations. His dedication to his work has earned him a Special Jury Award as a Healthcare Hero.