VANCOUVER ISLAND

Mary Lue Emmerson is an innovative educator and champion for equity in education. From supporting student-led service projects at Glenlyon Norfolk School, working with students to craft gender inclusive policies for “all-girls” schools, to co-founding Self.I.E. (Self Inspiration and Empowerment) Camps with her daughter, she has consistently uplifted student voice and agency. At St. Margaret’s School (SMS), she served as Director of Junior School before stepping into the pioneering role of Director of Educational Pathways and Partnerships. Mary Lue has led transformative initiatives including the Global Impact Scholarship, which supports students affected by war, political unrest, and gender discrimination. Her work is informed by international experience developing trauma-informed education for at-risk mothers and children in Guatemala. In 2024, Mary Lue was diagnosed as legally blind, she is using this challenge as an opportunity to role model the skills of resilience and self-advocacy she’s spent her career inspiring in students.

Heather started her career in the north region of the province and island as a Social Worker - Haida Gwaii & Port Hardy. Her career transitioned through the years and after returning to school in 2019 to complete her Masters in Counselling Psychology Heather opened her own Private Practice and business, Grit & Growth Therapeutic Solutions Ltd. She had a successful business in Powell River and has recently relocated and re-established her business here in Victoria with an office located in the downtown area. Heather has continued her studies in relational theory and has completed additional training related to trauma and relationship. Additionally she has completed her training to become a registered mediator. The focus of her work has been on families and individuals in relationship as well as trauma-informed care. She is a member in good standing and Roster member with Mediate BC, as well as a Member, Roster member and Member of the Board for BC Hear The Child Society. Heather is a single parent of three young-adults whom she has raised independently and who are a significant part of her life and joy. Weekends will find her gardening, sharing meals with her children, niece, brother and family, and walking her four-legged friend on the trails on the traditional lands of the ləkʷəŋən Peoples.

We are proud to congratulate Ranjit Gahunia on her well-deserved nomination for the Inspiring Wonder Woman Awards – Vancouver Island, recognizing her outstanding contributions to healthcare and her unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of others. Ranjit Gahunia is a seasoned healthcare professional with over 17 years of experience, specializing in geriatrics and palliative care. Her career began as a care aide, where she discovered a deep passion for supporting seniors. This inspired her journey into nursing, eventually leading to her current role as Director of Care at a private healthcare company in Victoria.

Ranjit has a proven track record in both public and private sectors, including years with Island Health as an LPN. She is especially skilled in guiding patients and families through the complexities of dementia and mental health, offering compassionate care, education, and resources. Known for her leadership and unwavering dedication, Ranjit continues to mentor others while striving to elevate the standard of senior care every day.

Donna Deneumoustier is a dedicated Community Integration Specialist with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. With over two decades of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of community services, Donna has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to reducing systemic barriers for marginalized populations—including those impacted by generational trauma, substance use, homelessness, and Intimate Partner Violence. One of Donna’s most impactful contributions was her role in bringing Third Party Reporting to Northern Vancouver Island, an initiative that allows survivors of sexual assault to report their experiences anonymously, without having to engage directly with the criminal justice system. A proud resident of Northern Vancouver Island, Donna lives and works on the traditional lands of the Kwakwaka’wakw people, where she continues to be inspired by the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Nicki Ranger is a dedicated leader and community advocate, working as an Executive Director at NICCCS - North Island Crisis and Counselling Centre. With nearly two decades in child protection services, she continues to make a profound impact while pursuing her Master’s in Leadership Studies in 2023. Beyond her work, Nicki is deeply involved in Port Hardy’s community, serving as President of the Minor Hockey Association and supporting local fire rescue efforts. Join us in celebrating her incredible contributions! 🔥🏒💙

We are proud to share that Naomi Heith, Manager of Recreation and Community Services for the District of Port Hardy, has been nominated for the Inspiring Wonder Woman Awards – Vancouver Island 2025. This nomination honors her dedication to building inclusive, community-centered recreational programs. A lifelong Port Hardy resident, Naomi has brought new energy and innovation to local events—Introducing initiatives such as Autumn Festival, Winter Wonderland, New Year’s Eve Party, After School Club, Easter Festival and Summer Camps. The Inspiring Wonder Woman Awards celebrate women making a difference, and Naomi’s nomination reflects her passion, commitment, and positive influence. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-earned recognition!

Devon has been working on sexual and reproductive health issues for over 15 years, starting as an intern with the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada’s International Women’s Health Program in 2008. Since then, she has kept up her focus on sexual and reproductive rights in her education, volunteer work, and career, including volunteer work with the University of Ottawa Women’s Centre and the White Ribbon Society for Maternal Health. More recently, Devon has served as secretary and president of Island Sexual Health Society's board of directors. Devon supports universal access to contraception because she knows what a difference improved sexual and reproductive health access can make for individuals and for communities. She hopes you’ll do what you can to support the fight for free contraception!

Congratulations to Heather Nelson-Smith, Chief Administrative Officer and Corporate Officer for the District of Port Hardy, on her well-deserved nomination for the Inspiring Wonder Woman Award - Vancouver Island 2024! Heather Nelson-Smith, Chief Administrative Officer and Corporate Officer for the District of Port Hardy, is a true inspiration. Her career journey, from retail and hospitality to local government leadership, highlights her adaptability and resilience. From various small-town jobs to CAO, Heather's story demonstrates the power of perseverance and continuous learning. She's passionate about team growth and fosters a collaborative and thriving environment. Celebrating 20 years in local government this January, Heather's commitment to community development is evident in projects like the Port Clements Multiplex and initiatives focused on poverty reduction. And for a pick-me-up? Disney Hits!

Congratulations to Pascale Navaro for being nominated for the Inspiring Wonder Woman Awards. Pascale Navaro is a Photographer by profession and the Founder and owner of Foto Rando. Foto Rando offers Offering Immersive & Outdoorsy Photography Workshops

Leanne is a dedicated professional at Westcoast Botanical Sugaring Spa, where she embodies the spa’s mission of redefining beauty standards with integrity and sustainability. With a deep commitment to ethical values, she ensures that every treatment incorporates eco-friendly and responsibly sourced ingredients. Leanne’s expertise and passion for natural beauty solutions make her an integral part of a team devoted to delivering exceptional, sustainable, and results-driven skincare experiences. Her approach reflects a harmonious balance of innovation and ethical consciousness, offering clients a refined, guilt-free beauty experience that aligns with modern sustainability principles.