top of page

2025 PRISM Awards Nominees

Celebrating Outstanding Women Across Moose Jaw

Welcome to the 2025 PRISM Awards Nominees page! The Business Women of Moose Jaw is proud to honor the incredible women making a difference in our community. Each nominee exemplifies the spirit of leadership, resilience, and empowerment, inspiring those around them through their achievements.

Below, you’ll find this year’s nominees, recognized for their excellence in six categories: Perseverance, Role Model, Influential, Mentor, Successful, and Lifetime Achievement. 

Join us in celebrating these remarkable women as we look forward to the 2025 PRISM Awards Luncheon, where we will announce this year’s recipients. Buy your tickets by Saturday, March 22 for the PRISM Awards Luncheon!

PERSEVERANCE

20250226_125603_edited_edited.jpg

Kimberly Lewis

Kimberly’s journey is one of perseverance and resilience. Growing up in the system, she overcame challenges and built an incredible life for herself, refusing to become a statistic. Through hard work and determination, she has not only achieved personal success but also made a lasting impact on her community.

As a business owner, Kimberly has faced obstacles, including the Canada Post strike, yet she remained steadfast, even gaining recognition on CTV and global news. With a strong online presence and a deep commitment to giving back, she takes pride in using her platform to support and uplift others.

ROLE MODEL

Lynanne Pethick photo_edited.jpg

Lynann Pethick

Lynann embodies the true spirit of volunteerism in Moose Jaw. For many years, she has devoted her time and energy to numerous organizations, including The Order of the Eastern Star, Elections Saskatchewan, The United Church, South Hill Community Association, Wakamow Valley Park, Western Development Museum, and the Friendly City Optimist Club.

For nearly 40 years, Lynann and her husband have been dedicated members of the community, consistently giving back in meaningful ways. Known for her kindness and selflessness, she exemplifies how volunteerism can create a lasting impact. Giving back isn’t just something she does—it’s who she is.

Sarah Simison_edited.jpg

Sarah Simison

Sarah is a dedicated community leader who has spent years supporting those in need. As Executive Director of the Festival of Words, she has been instrumental in its success and continues to guide its growth. Her commitment to service extends to many roles, including Special Olympics Swim Coach, first board chair of Moose Jaw Pride, and board member of Palliser Regional Library and MJPL.

In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Sarah is a devoted mother of two. A sought-after grant writer and a proud military wife, she exemplifies leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her community.

INFLUENTIAL

Shaunna Fritzler_edited.jpg

Shaunna Fritzler

Shaunna has been with Temple Gardens Centre (Moose Jaw Events) since 2012, starting as Business Manager for the Curling Centre before transitioning to various roles, including Finance Coordinator, Finance Manager, and ultimately Finance Director. In 2023, she was promoted to General Manager of the entire facility under Oak View Group, a role she is deeply passionate about. Shaunna is known for her charismatic leadership style, earning the respect and confidence of her team and staff over the years. Her dedication has led to positive changes within the facility, creating career and educational opportunities for many employees. Shaunna's ability to inspire, collaborate, and engage with the City of Moose Jaw and local user groups has been key to the success of Temple Gardens Centre. Her resilience, adaptability, and communication skills continue to make her a positive influence in the community.

Michaela Turner_edited.jpg

Michaela Turner

Michaela is well-known in Moose Jaw for her work with the Moose Jaw Co-op and her contributions to the community. However, her dedication to giving back extends far beyond that. A couple of years ago, Michaela experienced an accident that dramatically changed the course of her life. Despite this, she has continued to demonstrate resilience and a strong commitment to supporting others through her volunteer work and community involvement, inspiring many along the way.

SUCCESSFUL

Della Ferguson_edited.jpg

Della Ferguson

Della has dedicated her life to serving and uplifting the Moose Jaw community through her work as a grief supporter, funeral celebrant, and tireless volunteer. Through her role at W.J. Jones & Son Funeral Home since 1998, she has provided comfort and guidance to countless individuals and families during some of their most difficult and vulnerable moments. Her compassionate approach to grief support has left a lasting impact on those navigating loss.

Beyond her professional work, Della has been instrumental in numerous community initiatives. As a founding member of Journey to Hope in 2007, she has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars annually for suicide prevention efforts, including the organization's highly attended event in Crescent Park each September. Her leadership with Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw played a key role in establishing the city's first dedicated hospice bed and organizing memorial services like the Heartlights Memorial, while also providing essential end-of-life resources, education, and support to those in need.

Della’s commitment to community well-being extends further through her involvement with  Seniors’ Centre Without Walls (SCWW), an innovative over-the-phone arts and engagement program that has connected and supported seniors throughout Moose Jaw and the surrounding area. And most recently with Square One Community Square One’s supportive housing initiative provides independent living accommodations for up to 30 individuals, and the program has the potential to expand through a partnership with the Moose Jaw Non-Profit Housing Corporation.

With a lifelong passion for helping others, Della embodies compassion, service, and leadership. Her unwavering dedication has strengthened the community and provided hope and healing to countless individuals. She is truly deserving of this Lifetime Achievement recognition.

Gwen Fisher Head Librarian PRISM_edited.

Gwen Fisher

Gwen is a dedicated and visionary leader in the field of education and literacy. As Head Librarian of the Moose Jaw Public Library, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening the library’s presence and impact in the community. A graduate of McGill University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Religious Studies, Gwen furthered her expertise with a Master of Information in Library and Information Science from the University of Toronto.

Her leadership was instrumental in guiding the Moose Jaw Public Library through the challenges of the pandemic, emerging stronger by embracing digital opportunities and increasing user engagement across the city. Beyond expanding access to knowledge, Gwen is deeply committed to supporting vulnerable community members who seek shelter at the library. She proactively collaborated with social support agencies to better educate and equip her staff, ensuring the library remains a welcoming and inclusive space during a time of rising homelessness, addiction, and mental health struggles.

Gwen exemplifies professionalism, innovation, and compassion. Her creative vision has transformed the library into one of the city’s most valuable resources, and she leads by example every day. Moose Jaw is truly fortunate to have her dedication and leadership shaping its educational landscape.

MENTOR

Amanda Maki_edited.jpg

Amanda Maki

Amanda is a highly respected leader and mentor, known for her outstanding contributions to the Canadian Forces and her dedication to empowering others. As Deputy Commanding Officer for the 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, she has mentored many aspiring aviators, helping them develop both their technical flying skills and mental resilience. Her leadership has had a particularly significant impact on women in aviation, inspiring them to pursue careers in this traditionally male-dominated field. Amanda's commitment extends beyond her professional role, as she also contributes to her family farm and actively balances the demands of her career and motherhood.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Doreen Bye_edited_edited.jpg

Doreen Bye

Doreen is an exceptional woman whose selfless dedication to her community spans decades, making her a truly deserving nominee for the 2025 PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award. Doreen’s volunteer career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to service, compassion, and leadership. Through her numerous contributions to the community, Doreen has not only left an indelible mark on the organizations she’s worked with but has also profoundly impacted the lives of individuals from all walks of life.

Doreen’s remarkable volunteer journey has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Medal, recognizing her decades of selfless service. She was also honored by the Canadian Red Cross for over 30 years of dedicated volunteerism, particularly her well-known role in organizing and coordinating Blood Donor Clinics at the Exhibition Grounds. Her name became synonymous with these clinics, where her tireless efforts and welcoming presence made a lasting difference in the lives of many.

Beyond her work with the Canadian Red Cross, Doreen has lent her time to a variety of other causes. She is a staple at local dance festivals, where she has volunteered her time managing the security doors during competitions. Doreen has also supported her community by selling 50/50 tickets at AAA hockey games, volunteering at the Eagles Club, and remaining an active member of the Cosmo Centre for Seniors. Her involvement with the International Women’s Group further exemplifies her commitment to promoting inclusivity and community engagement.

Doreen’s volunteer spirit extends to her local sports scene as well. For years, she not only played on but also coached a women’s slo-pitch team, demonstrating her leadership both on and off the field. In addition, her philanthropy extended to the restoration of a historic church bell tower near her hometown of Kayville, a project that highlights her deep connection to the history and heritage of her community.

Despite the many awards and recognitions Doreen has received, she has always remained humble, stating that her motivation to help others comes not from seeking accolades but from a deep-rooted life philosophy of giving back to the community she holds dear. Doreen’s integrity and work ethic are reflected in her willingness to lend a helping hand wherever she can. She thrives on connecting with others, whether by sharing a warm meal with someone in need or by selflessly donating her time for a fundraising event.

One of Doreen’s most remarkable qualities is her genuine interest in people. She has an innate ability to connect with others, learning their stories and making them feel seen and valued. From offering a cup of coffee to a complete stranger to reuniting with an old friend, Doreen’s life is marked by meaningful connections. She never forgets a person’s story and ensures that each individual she meets feels like they matter.

Doreen’s legacy is one of kindness, service, and generosity. She leads by example, inspiring everyone around her to be kind, help others, and contribute to their community whenever possible. The name Doreen Bye is one that is recognized and revered by many, as her actions have touched so many lives over the years. It is with great pride and admiration that we nominate Doreen for the 2025 PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of her lifelong dedication to her community and the countless lives she has impacted.

Lucille Gilliland_edited.jpg

Lucille Gilliland

Lucille is a dedicated and visionary leader, whose nearly 40 years of work in early childhood development have left an indelible mark on Moose Jaw and beyond. As Executive Director of Southwest Day Care and Early Learning Centre (SWDC), Lucille has devoted her career to shaping future generations of children. Her expertise, especially in working with children with special needs, is unparalleled, and her contributions to the field have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, parents, and professionals across various sectors. Lucille has created innovative programs such as the Early Social Skills Program, which is now implemented across the province, and has been a passionate advocate for inclusive learning environments.

Lucille’s work at SWDC goes far beyond the classroom. She has created a thoughtfully designed learning environment that nurtures all aspects of a child’s well-being—intellectual, emotional, and physical—while encouraging a love for diversity and inclusivity. Her leadership extends to the broader community, where she has played an instrumental role in community projects like the All-Inclusive Playground in Wakamow Valley and has worked with local partners to raise awareness and funds for early childhood education.

In addition to her direct work at SWDC, Lucille is a committed mentor and educator. She has guided and inspired countless students in Early Childhood Education programs across Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario. Her impact extends to childcare centre directors, teachers, and mental health professionals, ensuring that her influence reaches all levels of education. Lucille is deeply committed to her community, volunteering her time to tutor students, lead workshops, and provide invaluable support to families and educators alike.

Lucille’s leadership has been instrumental in the success of SWDC, particularly during challenging times like the Centre’s structural renovation. Her resilience, commitment, and ability to rally the community to support the Centre have ensured its continued success and sustainability. Lucille’s unwavering dedication to the children and families she serves, along with her ability to empower others, makes her a deserving nominee for the 2025 PRISM Lifetime Award.

Her personal philosophy—“I love what I do, and I do what I love”—shines through in everything she does. Lucille's work continues to shape the lives of children, families, and educators, leaving a lasting impact on the community and inspiring the next generation of educators to follow in her footsteps. It is with immense pride that we nominate Lucille for this well-deserved recognition.

Barb Jackman_edited.jpg

Barb Jackman

Barb is a trailblazer in the dance community whose influence spans decades and whose dedication has shaped the lives of countless dancers and teachers. Nominated for the 2025 PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award, Barb’s contributions to the art of dance and her community are nothing short of extraordinary.

Barb’s journey in dance began early, and she has dedicated her career to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of dancers and teachers. As the founder of Dance Images Inc. and a respected teacher, Barb has been a constant force in the dance world, both locally and internationally. Her guidance has empowered dancers to reach their full potential, many of whom have gone on to become successful professionals themselves.

One of Barb’s most profound impacts has been on her students, including Shauna Bzdel, the current owner and director of Dance Images Inc. Shauna, who started dancing at the age of 12, credits Barb with seeing potential in her that she didn’t even know she had. With Barb’s encouragement and mentorship, Shauna went on to achieve a successful career in dance education, becoming fully certified in several prestigious programs, including ADAPT, CDTA, and Progressing Ballet Technique. Today, Shauna continues to work alongside Barb in the Assistant Teacher Training Program, helping to shape the next generation of dance educators.

Barb’s commitment to education extends beyond her studio. She has been a lifetime member of the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA), where she has made invaluable contributions to the organization and served as a sought-after ADAPT examiner. Barb also plays a key role in the ADAPT Teachers Training School, where she trains teachers from all over Canada, the U.S., and internationally. Her efforts in creating and nurturing the Assistant Teacher Training Program have helped countless young dance educators grow and thrive.

Barb’s influence in the dance world is also felt through her contributions to Dance Images Inc., a studio she has built into a thriving institution. As a businesswoman, Barb has instilled the importance of certification and continuous education in her teachers, ensuring that every teacher at the studio is fully certified. This commitment to excellence has set a high standard for the dance community, both locally and beyond.

Barb’s impact is not limited to the dance studio. She has been an integral part of the Moose Jaw community for over 35 years, mentoring not only dancers but also business leaders and educators. Her passion for helping others grow, her tireless dedication to her craft, and her unwavering support for the success of those around her make her a true pillar of the community.

Barb’s leadership, mentorship, and commitment to excellence have made her a beloved figure in the dance world. Her influence continues to inspire dancers, teachers, and communities across the globe. It is with great pride that we nominate Barb Jackman for the 2025 PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award—a recognition she so richly deserves for her lifelong dedication to the art of dance and her immeasurable impact on the lives of others.

Our 
Sponsors

A heartfelt thank you to all our generous sponsors for supporting this year’s PRISM Awards! Your contributions help us celebrate and recognize the incredible women making a difference in our community. Your generosity makes this event possible, and we are truly grateful for your support.

Moose Jaw Co-op

Lifetime Achievement Award
$500 Sponsorship

Moose Jaw Coop.png

Wakamow Valley Authority

Role Model Award
$500 Sponsorship

Wakamow Valley Logo.jpg

Our Prize &
Gift Donors

We are deeply grateful to the following supporters who have helped make the 2025 PRISM Awards extra special:

Seven Stones by Kimberly

For designing and donating the gorgeous necklaces for our award winners.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Evan’s Florist

For generously providing stunning floral arrangements for our nominees.

Our Supporters

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible High Regard Catering and Dance Images for their unwavering support in making the 2025 PRISM Awards relaunch a resounding success!

DAnce Images Logo.png

Dance Images

A huge thank you to Dance Images for generously hosting us in your beautiful space! Your warm welcome and fantastic venue have set the perfect stage for this year's awards, providing the ideal setting to celebrate the incredible women in our community.

High Regard Catering_logo.jpg

PRISM Awards Luncheon:
High Regard Catering

We are beyond excited to announce that High Regard Artisanal Catering will be providing the delicious luncheon at the 2025 PRISM Awards! Known for their mouth-watering boxed lunches and exceptional service, High Regard Catering has wowed us at past events and is sure to deliver something extra special this year. Whether you’re enjoying the elegant atmosphere of the luncheon or celebrating the achievements of our incredible nominees, you’re in for a treat!

Thank you, High Regard Catering, for your continued support and for making this event even more memorable!

Don’t forget to follow them for more delicious updates and catering inspiration!

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Contact Us

Thanks for submitting!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Business Women of Moose Jaw
bizwomenofmj@gmail.com
2022

bottom of page