Winnipeg’s Jewish community is celebrating a wave of recognition as several of its leaders and philanthropists were awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their significant contributions to Canadian society. Among the honourees is Carrie Shenkarow, the incoming president of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, who expressed gratitude for the distinction.
“I’m honoured by the recognition, beyond grateful, and truly humbled to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal,” Shenkarow said. She was one of 55 recipients who were presented with the award by Manitoba’s Lieutenant Governor, Anita Neville, at a ceremony held at the Legislature on October 24. The honourees later attended a reception at Government House to celebrate their achievements.
The Coronation Medal, commemorating King Charles III’s ascension to the throne on May 6, 2023, recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Other Jewish community members awarded the medal include philanthropists, activists, and professionals dedicated to improving Canadian society.
A Legacy of Service
Renowned businessman and community leader Harvey Secter was among the recipients. A former Dean of Law and Chancellor at the University of Manitoba, Secter has played a key role in shaping institutions like the United Way, St. Boniface Hospital Foundation, and the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba. His decades-long commitment to education, health care, and social services earned him this prestigious recognition.
Michel Aziza, a leader in humanitarian efforts, was also honoured for his work with Operation Ezra, which helped resettle Yazidi refugees in Winnipeg following the 2014 ISIS-led genocide in Iraq. More recently, Aziza, along with his wife Danita and fellow honouree Einat Paz, has been organizing weekly rallies to raise awareness about Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
Louis Trepel, a driving force behind numerous charitable initiatives, was recognized for his contributions to Manitoba’s nonprofit sector. A founding member of Variety, The Children’s Charity, Trepel has been instrumental in organizing major fundraising events for Manitoba Harvest, St. Boniface Hospital, and the Rainbow Resource Centre. His philanthropic leadership continues to inspire the next generation of community builders.
Artists, Activists, and Business Leaders Recognized
Filmmaker and artist Noam Gonick was awarded for his work in the arts, having gained international acclaim at the Venice, Berlin, and Sundance film festivals. His storytelling, often focusing on social issues, has been widely exhibited and has contributed to global conversations on diversity and representation.
Several additional Jewish community members received their medals through nominations by Charleswood-St. James MP Marty Morantz. Business leaders Robert and Sandy Shindleman, known for their philanthropic support of health care and Alzheimer’s research, were presented with their medals in December. Morantz also honoured activist Jessica Cogan and social worker Einat Paz, both recognized for their dedication to community service and advocacy.
Paz, who was also the first recipient of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Magen David Award, spoke about the significance of her work.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the King Charles Medal for my community work advocating for the release of hostages and raising awareness that the rape of women is never resistance,” Paz said. “This recognition also highlights the vital importance of food security for the Jewish community, a cause close to my heart.”
As Winnipeg’s Jewish community reflects on these accolades, the honourees serve as a testament to the power of leadership, philanthropy, and activism in shaping a stronger and more inclusive society.