This year’s recipient has embarked on an international journey to join the Manitoba legal profession. Born in Nigeria, Emmanuella Obeya attended law school in the United Kingdom before ultimately immigrating to Canada, where she began the process of obtaining her legal license through the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA). The challenges Emmanuella encountered in becoming licensed in Manitoba fueled her passion for advocating and mentoring other internationally trained lawyers. Before coming to Canada, Emmanuella established a foundation committed to improving education and access to education in Nigeria. Once here, her activism did not stop. Through her volunteer work with organizations like Manitoba Start and groups like the Foreign Trained Lawyers in Canada, Emmanuella aims to raise awareness and create opportunities for NCA candidates. Her dedication to law and community empowerment shines throughout her life and legal journey, and the selection committee is confident she will continue to make a positive impact in both areas.