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HMC Gala puts a spotlight on benefits of multiculturalism by Abigail Cukier Special to the Beaver 25 | Thursday, May 21, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com The Halton Multicultural Council (HMC) recently held its awards night and gala. Aside from being a celebration and a chance to honour outstanding community members, the organization sees that gala as having a double duty. "We believe Halton has the capacity to be a positive microcosm of how the world should live -- appreciating and valuing our differences while building our community together," said Kim Jenkinson, HMC's executive director. "After hearing these stories, we want the community to see that diversity adds value and strength to our community and that we all benefit when we build our community inclusively and together." The community-based settlement agency provides programs and services to immigrant and refugee communities with the goal of enabling every individual to participate as active members of the community. Nancy Siew Nancy Siew received the Bill Allison Community Leadership Award, which was created four years ago to commemorate HMC's 30th anniversary and honour its founding president. The award goes to a business, individual Calvin Rieder or organization in Halton Region that exemplifies exceptional leadership in the diverse community. Educated in Canada, Hong Kong and Switzerland, Siew was appointed a citizenship judge by the Governor-General-In-Council in 2014 after intensive training in Ottawa. Siew earned five post-secondary diplomas and degrees, including a master's degree from McGill University. Her work as a federal public servant has earned her a commendation from the Governor General of Canada and two medals from the Army, Navy, Air Force Veterans Association of Canada, which also recommended her to the Governor-General for the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal. For 30 years, Siew has volunteered to honour veterans, promote seniors issues and multiculturalism and advocate for mental health. She also devoted more than a decade to building Heritage Month, working with school boards, police services and other agencies. Siew received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. "This award serves to highlight a successful immigrant in Halton who has shown significant civic leadership. Nancy Siew is a great example of someone who came, settled and then looked for ways to contribute to her community," Jenkinson said. see Rieder on p.37 your style, perfected Inspired Interiors begin with us. Call us to book an appointment CUSTOM DRAPERY, BEDDING & HARDWARE · Sofas · Chairs · Headboards · Throw Pillows · Drapery & Hardware Wash, cut, blow dry, style or updo plus a FREE GIFT. Ready for PRom? Hair Studio 1 $ Expires June 30, 2015 (add $20 for bold balayage foil.) any other offer. Cannot be combined with 50 2368 Lakeshore Rd. W, Oakville (back entrance) To book an appointment please call 2345 Wyecroft Rd, #11, Oakville 905.616.3156 www.baiers.ca Since 1967 905-469-0344 www.hairstudio1.ca upholstery & design I will pay $15 for the kettle Make it $20 and its yours. HEARING AID SPECIAL (Clients portion) *Some Conditions Apply Up to 3 Year Service Warranty HOME VISITS AVAILABLE $295 Latest Technology In Hopedale Mall, next to the CIBC 1515 Rebecca Street, Unit 38, Oakville 60 DAY GUARANTEE: NEED MORE COUNTER SPACE? Tradyo is a mobile app that connects you with buyers and sellers that are nearest to you. Snap photos and post items you want to sell or chat with the sellers of things you want to buy. Really, it's that simple with Tradyo! So - What's in your Tradius? FREE Hearing test · Age 55+ www.hearingclinicgroup.com Kettle 13 30 2 km tradyo.com Hopedale Hearing Clinic 905-827-7333