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Four UWinnipeg students to meet Michelle Obama

Four high-achieving women who are currently studying at The University of Winnipeg will interact with Michelle Obama while she is in Winnipeg on September 24.

Left to right: Rachelle Kabuha, Courtney Bear, Beverly Tran, and Sidney Leggett (Photos supplied).

The opportunity to meet the former First Lady was made possible by UWinnipeg and The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.

Rachelle Kabuha, originally from the Congo, is studying international development studies and criminal justice. She is passionate about helping new Canadians achieve success and encourages all of us to think about how we can create a more welcoming environment for newcomers. She plans to become a lawyer.

Courtney Bear is a member of Peguis First Nation, who is pursuing a master’s degree in development practice. While working with Dr. Melanie O’Gorman, Courtney conducted research on clean drinking water in First Nations communities. Her passion is working with Indigenous peoples and she believes that education is the key to success.

Beverly Tran is the president of the UWinnipeg Business Administration Student Association and has led the organization of events such as the emerging markets trip to Colombia and the annual Entrepreneurial Way Conference. After graduating, she wants to start her own business.

Sidney Leggett is studying applied computer science with a specialization in health technology. She has already made a contribution to the field of medical science by co-presenting results of her research into magnetic resonance imaging and brain function, in partnership with Dr. Melanie Martin. Leggett identifies as Metis.

“These young women have shown themselves to be leaders and have demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence. I think that Michelle Obama will enjoy meeting them and hearing about their future plans,” said Dr. Annette Trimbee, UWinnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor.

“Opportunities to rub shoulders with leaders like Michelle Obama are pretty rare, so we wanted to make that a reality for local students,” said Loren Remillard, President and CEO of The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber is pleased that young people are able to take part in this event. We are all about providing opportunities for the next generation of community and business leaders.”

The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce is hosting Obama in Winnipeg at Bell MTS Place on Tuesday September 24 at 12:00 noon. Obama served as First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017, transforming the position and becoming a role model, champion, and inspiration for women, families, and young people across America and around the world.