Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
2023 MAHATMA GANDHI PEACE AWARD GALA
RBC Convention Centre
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Reception: 6:00 p.m.
Dinner: 6:30 p.m.
(please check against delivery)
Honoured guests, ladies and gentlemen: As the King’s representative in Manitoba, I am pleased to join you this evening in celebrating those who, through service, example and achievement, continue to advance the great legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.
I am pleased to serve as Honourary Patron of this distinguished program, and proud to lend my support to such an important organization, the guiding principles of which provide us all with hope for a better world by recognizing and encouraging the best in humanity.
Inspiring role models, this year’s award recipients have shown themselves to be leaders who are making a positive impact on their communities, their countries and the world, through integrity, determination and commitment to the greater good.
“The future depends on what we do in the present,” said Gandhi. This evening’s honourees reflect the wisdom of that philosophy in action, as well as the power of the individual to make a genuine difference in the world.
Your organization’s late founder, Dr. Krishnamurti Dakshinamurti (Dr. KRISH-NA-MERTY DAK-SHEENA-MERTY) was, himself, a difference maker. A brilliant physician, researcher and dedicated proponent of global peace, he left an indelible mark on our province, setting a high standard of community service along the way.
In that same spirit of exemplary public service, this evening will officially recognize the significant achievements and many good works of Canadian Treasury Board President, the Honourable Anita Anand. An accomplished lawyer and esteemed public servant, her professional credits are numerous and laudable, including her most recent leadership roles in enhancing public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, and coordinating our country’s military aid to Ukraine. A trailblazer, she is the first Hindu to become a federal minister in Canada
As First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska (O-LAY-NA ZEL-EN-SKA) has exemplified remarkable grace, courage and dedication in her ongoing efforts to help protect her country’s most vulnerable citizens amid the inherent challenges presented by a brutal, unjust war. Through her humanitarian efforts, she has brought light into the darkness of extreme adversity, and helped countless innocents in need.
Both are truly remarkable women and most deserving of the prestigious awards they will receive tonight.
Congratulations to the Mahatma Gandhi Centre of Canada’s board of directors, volunteers and supporters whose shared vision and hard work have made this program, and evening of celebration, possible. I wish you continued success and a very pleasant evening.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich