Her original students from 1974 may be well into retirement, but the four-time UM alum is still going strong, teaching leadership to graduate students and supervising their thesis work.

“I love what I do,” she says. “It gives me intellectual stimulation, a great sense of fulfilment, and I’m just so proud of the students.”

Last May, the Faculty of Graduate Studies honoured Scanlan with the 2025 Excellence in Graduate Student Mentoring Award in the health sciences category. How does she sum up mentorship?

“Be authentic,” she says. “Develop relationships. Relationships are absolutely essential to my work.”

Raised in small communities in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Scanlan followed her mother into nursing, graduating with a diploma from Regina General Hospital in 1963. She worked for a few years, but felt drawn toward higher education.

Arriving at UM, she earned a nursing certificate in teaching and supervision in 1966, then her bachelor of nursing in 1967. “I didn’t know where my education would take me, but it was the smartest thing I ever did,” she says.

At the time, nursing students – Scanlan was in a cohort of about 25 – had to climb the stairs to the top floor of what is now the UM Administration Building for their classes. “We got very fit very quickly,” she remembers.

Most courses were taught by the legendary Margaret Elder Hart [LLD/93], director of the School of Nursing from 1948 to 1972. Students weren’t addressed by their first names, so the then-single Scanlan was “Miss Parnell.”

“You would go to Peggy Hart’s office for help with writing a paper, and she would say, ‘Miss Parnell, I think you should read this article.’” To this day, Scanlan says, she does the same thing, steering students toward resources to expand their thinking.

Scanlan earned her master’s in education and joined the full-time faculty in 1983. She completed an interdisciplinary PhD in 1996.

Her accomplishments include leading innovative revisions to the master of nursing program while serving as associate dean of graduate programs, and working with institutions in China and Cuba to help them modernize, develop and upgrade their nursing education programs.

In her international work, she was acknowledged for responding to local priorities, rather than coming in with an attitude of knowing what was best.

“You listen, and you try to meet our needs, not yours,” she was told with gratitude. She carries that with her, she says, as the essence of both nursing and teaching.

Scanlan is now working on a research study of early-career nurses’ leadership aspirations. With young nurses quitting the profession in high numbers, she says, it’s important to understand the perspective of millennial and Gen Z members of the nursing workforce.

“We know from research that if there’s a good leader in a clinical area, people will stay, because that leader has developed relationships with their people, made them feel valued and tried to meet their needs.

“That’s why I think what I do is important. I’m helping to nurture that next generation of leaders who will be able to make a difference.”

Participants will have just three minutes to present the significance of their thesis work to a non-specialist audience—an invaluable experience that builds confidence, clarity, and academic presence.

The deadline to apply is January 19, 2026.

Why Participate?

The 3MT® competition is more than just a challenge—it’s an opportunity to:

• Refine Communication Skills: Learn to articulate complex ideas in a clear and easy to understand manner
• Build Confidence: Gain experience presenting to diverse audiences.
• Enhance Career Development: Develop essential skills for both academic and non-academic careers.
• Win Prizes: Compete for cash awards and the chance to represent the University of Manitoba at the Western Regional 3MT® Competition.

Who Can Apply?

The competition is open to all graduate students currently enrolled in thesis-based programs (Master’s or PhD) at the University of Manitoba.

How to Apply

Interested students can access the application form via the UM 3MT® website and submit their application by January 19th, 2026 by 4:00pm. Challengers accepted to compete will be notified in early February.

About the 3MT® Competition

Originating at the University of Queensland, Australia, the 3MT® competition has grown into a global event that challenges students to present their research concisely, using just one static slide and no props. The University of Manitoba has proudly participated in this initiative, showcasing the outstanding research conducted by its graduate students since 2013. “This is an opportunity for students to step into the research spotlight and expand the audience for their work across the UM and beyond”, says Kelley Main, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

The event will once again be hosted by Colleen Bready, CTV News Weather Specialist, returning as emcee for the fifth year in a row. Her energy, professionalism, and long-standing support of the competition continue to elevate the experience for participants and audience members alike.

For More Information

Visit umanitoba.ca/3mt for details on eligibility, application requirements, and key dates. Previous years recordings of the events can also be found on the website.

Don’t miss this chance to share your passion for research and make your mark in the 2026 3MT® Competition!

Dr. Hans Joachim Wieden will join Luma Clarindo Lopes, winner of the 2025 Falling Walls Lab Manitoba in front of the Admin building.

WINNIPEG — In a proud moment for Manitoba’s innovation community, Dr. Hans‑Joachim Wieden, Associate Vice-President Partnership, Knowledge Mobilisation and Innovation, joins Luma Clarindo Lopes, winner of the 2025 Falling Walls Lab Manitoba, on her journey to Berlin this week for the Falling Walls Science Summit.

IDEA START, in partnership with the University of Manitoba (UM) and the University of Winnipeg (UWinnipeg), hosted the Falling Walls Lab Manitoba 2025, bringing together some of the province’s brightest minds in a celebration of innovation, research, and collaboration. The event’s success underscored Manitoba’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive innovation culture, making it a truly Manitoban initiative.

At the prestigious global summit, Luma will present her groundbreaking idea alongside 99 other Lab winners from around the world. She’ll be representing the University of Manitoba, our province and Canada alongside fellow Canadian finalists Annika Benson (Atlantic Canada), Artem Kushnirenko (Toronto), and Harry Wilton‑Clark (Edmonton), showcasing the strength and diversity of Canadian innovation on the world stage.

This participation underscores Manitoba’s growing footprint in research, development and innovation, reinforcing how platforms like Falling Walls can bridge local insight with international opportunity.

Empowering Manitoba’s Innovation Narrative

With Manitoba’s research and innovation sector rapidly evolving, the arrival of Luma and Dr. Wieden in Berlin represents more than mere attendance, it signals strategic alignment and ambition. As the province continues to build capacity in science‑driven enterprise, having a representative stand on the global stage advances our story and elevates local credibility.

Dr. Wieden commented:

“Berlin is not only a centre for science but a nexus of global collaboration. For Manitoba to have a voice among the world’s leading early‑career innovators is a powerful step. This platform enables us to put Manitoba squarely on the map of breakthrough research and enterprise.”

Spotlight on Luma Clarindo Lopes

Luma, whose innovative project earned her the Manitoba Lab winner title, is preparing to showcase her idea at the Fallings Walls Summit and engage with peers, mentors and global decision‑makers.

She shared:

“Representing Manitoba on this global stage is incredibly exciting. Meeting other finalists‑innovators from around the world, exchanging ideas and learning from diverse perspectives will be a career‑shaping experience. I’m proud to carry the province’s flag and eager for every minute of the journey.”

Strategic Value for Manitoba’s Ecosystem

Platforms like Falling Walls Lab offer powerful momentum for both individuals and regions. For early-career innovators, it’s a chance to gain global exposure, sharpen their pitching skills, and build international networks. For ecosystems like Manitoba, it means a stronger talent pipeline, greater visibility, and new opportunities for collaboration.

These ripple effects support broader provincial goals, from accelerating research-to-market pathways to attracting investment and deepening ties between academia and industry.

In this landscape, Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden plays a pivotal role. He’s not only helping Luma prepare for the global stage but also positioning Manitoba’s innovation story within a wider international narrative. His mentorship highlights a key truth: behind every standout idea is a community working toward lasting impact.

Canadian Cohort Joins Global Innovation Line‑Up

• Annika Benson (Atlantic Canada): Winner of the Falling Walls Lab Atlantic Canada, now advancing to present in Berlin to present her research on development and testing of a miniature, high-resolution, tracked ultrasound probe for brain surgery.
• Artem Kushnirenko (Toronto): PhD candidate and Lab Toronto winner, heading to Berlin to pitch his translational surgical analytics innovation.
• Harry Wilton‑Clark (Edmonton): First‑place winner at Lab Edmonton 2025 with a project on antisense therapy for rare diseases.

Together with Luma, they form a Canadian cadre taking local innovation to the world’s premier science summit.

In Summary

The trip to Berlin is not simply a travel opportunity, it is a tangible expression of Manitoba’s ambition to be recognized among global centres of innovation. With Luma Clarindo Lopes representing Manitoba on the world stage, accompanied by Dr. Hans‑Joachim Wieden, the province is charting a path from local ingenuity to global relevance. The journey will unfold not just in Berlin, but in how Manitoba leverages this spotlight to advance its innovation agenda.

Photo of Chiamaka Ilozue [LLM/25]

Chiamaka Ilozue

Thesis: “Shareholder proposal in Canada: questions, concerns, and opportunities for improvement.”

Advisor: Professor Darcy MacPherson

Chiamaka Ilozue completed her LLB at Lancaster University in the UK in 2019, and received her BL (Barrister-at-Law) in 2021 at Nigerian Law School in Lagos, Nigeria. Prior to commencing studies in her LLM at Robson Hall, she worked as a Legal Officer at the Securities and Exchange Commission, and was Legal Counsel at Etiaba & Co, Etiaba Chambers in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. Ilozue has worked as a graduate research assistant at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Law while completing requirements for her LLM degree.

What is your thesis on and who is your advisor?

My thesis is on the corporate aspect of law. This is because my interests in corporate law were naturally informed by the inconsistency laws on claims and tort governing the business environment I grew up in. Hence, my thesis topic is on: Shareholder Proposal in Canada: Questions, Concerns and Opportunities for Improvement. My thesis advisor is Professor Darcy MacPherson.

Where did you previously study or practice law?

I had my first degree at the University of Lancaster. Then, I proceeded to the Nigerian Law School where I was called to one of the largest bar associations in Africa as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Thus, I was practicing law in Nigeria before I came to Canada.  

How did you come to study at the UM Faculty of Law?

Pretty much, I was searching for schools that offered a Master of Laws (LLM) program and came across the University of Manitoba. However, I was more particular about the University of Manitoba, specifically for graduate studies in Master of Laws (LLM) because of its renowned reputation in quality education and superior learning systems. Professors at the university are widely known for their intensive research and expertise from Contract Law to Human Rights Law. 

What do you hope to do with your LLM?

Obtaining an LLM (Master of Laws) from the University of Manitoba will guide me to what public and corporate legal teams I would love to be part of, equipping me with a dynamic and evolving range of skills to work anywhere in public and private markets. 

What have been your favourite aspects of studying at Robson Hall so far?

My favorite aspects of studying at Robson Hall are my classes. I get the opportunity to vehemently express myself on the different area of laws as they come. Thankfully, the lecturers are always quite engaging with their stimulating questions. 

How has the graduate seminar been of help to you in the preparation of your thesis?

The graduate seminar is indeed a stimulating one. It has helped me approach my thesis in a different light by exposing me to various research methods in order to achieve the goal of finishing my thesis in a timely manner.

What would you tell other students about the benefits of taking an LLM degree?

Lastly, I would advise students to take on the LLM program as it directs you to a new phase in a career marathon of learning from experienced Legal professionals.

Lovelyn Osiele [LLM/25]

Lovelyn Osiele

Thesis: “Examination of securities regulation in Canada.”

Advisor: Professor Darcy MacPherson

Lovelyn Osiele completed her LLB at Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria in 2019 and received her BL (Barrister-at-Law) from The Nigerian Law School in Lagos, Nigeria in 2021. She enrolled in the University of Manitoba’s LLM program in 2023.

What is your thesis on and who is your advisor?

My Thesis Topic: A Comparative Analysis of Securities Regulation in Canada and the United States.  My Thesis advisor is Professor Darcy MacPherson.

Where did you previously study or practice law?

I had my Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) from Benson Idahosa University, Nigeria where I also practice law.

How did you come to study at the UM Faculty of Law?

I had a couple of friends who always discussed about the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg Canada, so I picked an interest and decided to research about the University on my own. I found a lot of interesting things about the school I just couldn’t let go. I studied how highly the University of Manitoba is ranked, the various scholarships offered, and how supportive the Professors are, I noticed the student-teacher relationship, and the University of Manitoba from my research is best known as a research institution and has the best law program. 

What do you hope to do with your LLM?

I am pursuing this degree in Law because I have been looking forward to getting the role as a Senior lawyer in my place of work which has been eluding due to my inability to acquire a higher professional degree. I am particularly certain that on completion of my program, I will be adequately equipped with the skills I hope to acquire from my Law certificate, I will also have acquired the requisite qualifications to stand as a good candidate for the role in my organization.

What have been your favourite aspects of studying at Robson Hall so far?

The lecturers and Professors are friendly and ensure they provide everything needed for a successful academic year. The E.K. Williams Law Library is so equipped and I have access to learning materials. Also being taught by intelligent professors gives me so much edge and confidence. 

Read a feature story about Oluwafisayo Stephen Ayita of this class, who graduated in June, 2025. He is now a student in the Internationally Trained Lawyer program, working towards becoming licensed to practice law in Manitoba.

Applications for the Master of Laws program at the University of Manitoba are now open until December 15, 2025. Apply now.

“We wish to provide opportunities for people who, for a variety of reasons—especially geographic—might not otherwise have access to graduate studies,” said Dr. Gregory Bryan, one of the group’s core faculty members. “It’s about reducing barriers and making education more inclusive.”

Rooted in access and equity

The decision to provide an online delivery option for the  Language and Literacy concentration was driven by a shared commitment among faculty to extend educational opportunities to rural, northern, and remote communities. Dr. Michelle Honeyford emphasized that this initiative aligns with broader university priorities: “We see this as part of our strategic work with rural and northern communities. It’s about extending the opportunity for educators across the province to be part of the program—and that benefits everyone.”

Dr. Jennifer Watt added, “We’re prioritizing those who might have access issues within the province first, but we’re also open to applicants from across Canada and internationally. The goal is to reach those who can’t regularly come to campus.” While students have the ability to take courses online, they also have the option to attend classes in-person.

A unique thesis-based online experience

Unlike many online graduate pathways that are course-based and often asynchronous, UM’s new offering stands out by providing a thesis route. This allows students to engage deeply in original research within their own communities, supported by a dedicated cohort model.

“This is a meaningful process in graduate-level education,” said Dr. Amir Michalovich. “It’s quite rare to find thesis-based online options in Canada. We’re offering something unique—students will be able to conduct research in their local contexts and be supported throughout the process,” while Dr. Du emphasizes that a thesis project can go beyond written words, “I hope to help students rethink what research in education means and to create opportunities for diverse forms of research to take place in various settings.”

Dr. Watt agrees, “We’ve learned through years of online teaching that we can support students doing thesis work. They’ll be assigned advisors and have opportunities to connect with their cohort, so they won’t feel isolated.”

The online delivery structure includes six courses over two years, followed by thesis proposal development and research. While the coursework is scheduled, the thesis timeline is flexible, allowing students to complete their M.Ed. in approximately three to five years, depending on their circumstances.

A cohort model that builds community

One of the defining features is the cohort model. Students will take each course together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. “We’ve developed an arc for the courses,” said Dr. Honeyford. “Students will take a course with each of the five faculty members, which is rare and offers a rich, well-rounded experience.”

Dr. Bryan added, “Each of us brings our own passions and areas of expertise. Students will benefit from that diversity, both in coursework and in their thesis work.”

The faculty team includes Dr. Michelle Honeyford, Dr. Gregory Bryan,  Dr. Amir Michalovich, Dr. Xiaoxiao Du, and Dr. Jennifer Watt –  recipient of the 2025 Olive Beatrice Stanton Award for Teaching Excellence. Together, they span a wide range of research interests and teaching strengths, ensuring students receive comprehensive support.

Building research capacity across Manitoba

This option is not only about access—it’s about impact. By supporting educators in conducting research in their own communities it aims to amplify local voices and contribute to the broader field of language and literacy education.

“We need researchers throughout the province engaged in important language and literacy work,” said Dr. Honeyford. “This online delivery model develops capacity and supports students in becoming those researchers.”

Dr. Michalovich added, “There’s potential for real impact in the communities these students come from. Their research can be showcased in meaningful ways, both within our faculty and beyond.” 

A strong foundation and forward-looking vision

While the online option embraces innovation, it also encompasses historical perspectives and knowledge of the field. Dr. Bryan highlighted one of the courses he’ll be teaching, which explores the history of reading research over the past 120 years. “It’s important to recognize the past so we can build a better future,” he said.

To support students as researchers, two research courses: Engaging with Research in Education and Language Teacher as Researcher are being offered.

“We’re excited about that,” said Dr. Honeyford. “It allows students to think about research from a language and literacies perspective and prepares them for their thesis work.”

Born from collaboration and experience

The development of the online M.Ed. option was a collaborative effort among faculty, supported by the department head, the Graduate Program committee, the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs and Research, Faculty of Graduate Studies, and university leadership. Dr. Honeyford noted, “This is the first online M.Ed. cohort in the Faculty of Education, so we were navigating new territory. But because the Language and Literacy concentration is well-established, and the cohort courses are being taught in the program already, we were able to build the cohort around them and move things through the process quite smoothly.”

Dr. Watt reflected on the team’s experience supporting online cohorts during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a partnership with Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre. “We worked with a group of 22 First Nations students who were completing comprehensive projects. Despite the challenges, we supported them online and saw how meaningful that experience was. It showed us that thesis work is not only possible online—it can be incredibly impactful.”

Who should apply?

Educators who are passionate about language and literacy and who may face barriers to accessing in-person graduate education are encouraged to apply. Whether due to geography, family commitments, or professional obligations, this online format offers flexibility without compromising academic rigor.

“This is a part-time commitment,” explained Dr. Watt. “Students will take one evening course per term, making it manageable alongside their work and personal lives.”

Applications are currently open, with a cohort size of approximately 15 students. This option is expected to be in high demand for educators in Manitoba who have, in the past, applied to online courses elsewhere for their M.Ed. studies.  “The response has been phenomenal,” noted Dr. Honeyford.

Looking ahead

While the M.Ed. Language and Literacy concentration is the first to go online, it may pave the way for other M.Ed. concentrations in the future. “This is a bit of a test run,” said Dr. Watt. “We’re fortunate to have a large and committed faculty team right now, which makes it possible.”

Dr. Honeyford added, “We’re seeing interest from other area groups, and we’re hopeful this will inspire further online offerings.”

Most importantly, the Faculty of Education will continue to offer in-person M.Ed.  in both thesis- and course-based routes, ensuring that students have options that suit their needs

Why Choose UM?

Beyond the online delivery structure and accessibility, the faculty’s expertise and commitment to student success make this offering stand out. “We’re designing these courses with students in mind,” said Dr. Honeyford. “We’ll be with them from the beginning of the cohort through to the end, building relationships and supporting their research.”

Dr. Michalovich, who is currently leading a generative AI and digital literacies workshop series, emphasized the relevance of the online focus: “We live in interesting times. The ways we communicate and make meaning are changing rapidly. Literacy education is at the center of that transformation. This is a great time to engage deeply with these issues.”

As the University of Manitoba continues to evolve and respond to the needs of its diverse communities, the launch of the online thesis cohort in  Language and Literacy marks a significant step forward. It’s an offering built on access, collaboration, and a vision for a more inclusive and research-rich future in education.

Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are now open. The deadline to apply is November 1.

For more information, https://umanitoba.ca/education/master-education-concentrations

The PhD students at UM are among the 166 scholars in the 2025 cohort. They conduct world-leading research in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, receiving $150,000 each, over three years, to continue their research.

“We are incredibly proud of our four Vanier scholars, who represent the best of research leadership in Canada,” says Dr. Mario Pinto, Vice-President (Research and International). “UM is pleased to provide the research infrastructure and mentorship to help these promising graduate students to achieve their goals and work to solve the world’s most pressing problems.”

UM’s 2025 Vanier Scholars   

Md. Abdul Aziz, photo credit Mahin Hasan

Md. Abdul Aziz is a PhD student in the College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.

Trends in antidepressant use for mental health disorders in Manitoba

Aziz’s research aims to understand real-world patterns of antidepressant use over a long time period. Millions of people take antidepressants to help them with mood and anxiety disorders, but many discontinue their medications early. Aziz is using Manitoba population health data to determine what factors force someone to discontinue their medications. He is also examining how often specific antidepressants are used, especially when a person’s genes might influence how they respond to these medications. 

“This is a dream come true and fills me with immense gratitude,” says Aziz. “It is an honour to be recognized for my research and provides me with invaluable freedom to devote my time to bridging the gap between health-care professionals and patients to optimize drug therapies.”

His work is supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. 

Barret Monchka

Barret Monchka is a PhD student in the College of Community and Global Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.

Improving data linkage techniques to enhance research reliability, efficiency and privacy protection

Monchka’s research will enhance the accuracy of patient-oriented research by improving how researchers link data from diverse sources, such as health, education and income. Weaving together these siloed data sets allows researchers to improve their understanding of the non-medical factors that impact health outcomes. His work will strengthen the foundations of public health research and will lay the groundwork for developing future AI models to be more equitable.

“Receiving this highly competitive award is an incredible honour,” says Monchka. “It allows me to continue advancing research at the intersection of population health, computer science and statistics and showcases the importance of using quality data to improve health outcomes.”

His work is supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Chamali Kodikara

Chamali Kodikara is a PhD student in the Faulty of Agriculture and Food Science in the Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences.

Enhancing wheat safety through new strategies for better detection and management of Ergot contamination

Kodikara’s research focuses on protecting the quality and sustainability of Canada’s world-renowned wheat by detecting and reducing naturally occurring toxins called ergot alkaloids. These compounds are produced by fungi and can pose human health risks if they enter the food supply. Her work uses high-resolution mass spectrometry and cold-plasma processing as innovative tools to improve grain safety.

“The Vanier Scholarship affirms the value of my work and the role I can play in advancing food safety, sustainability, and public well-being. This support allows me to expand knowledge, build partnerships, and be a force for positive change that benefits people in Canada and around the world.”

Her work is supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

Deanne Nixie Miao

Deanne Nixie Miao is a PhD student in the department of biochemistry and medical genetics in the Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.

Understanding the genetics of hearing loss caused by cisplatin

Miao’s research focuses on cisplatin, a widely used cancer drug that can cause hearing loss in up to 80 per cent of patients. It especially affects children, who are at a three-fold higher risk of developing cisplatin-induced hearing loss compared to adults. Despite its prevalence, there is a knowledge gap regarding how genes, pathways and specific ear cells are affected by cisplatin. Miao will use cutting-edge single-cell technologies to identify specific genes, pathways and ear cells to help predict and prevent hearing loss.

“Receiving the Vanier Scholarship reinforces that my work and my voice belong in research,” says Miao. “As a Filipino-Canadian PhD student, I don’t often see people in my field who look like me. This honour gives me the confidence to grow as an independent researcher and inspires me to contribute to solutions that can improve the lives of people affected by drug toxicities.”

Her work is supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Vanier Scholars are chosen for their academic excellence, research potential and leadership. Students are nominated by their university, evaluated by multi-disciplinary peer-review committees and selected by a board composed of world-renowned Canadian and international experts.   

“While this is the last year of the Vanier competition, UM’s Vanier scholars continue to be recognized for their groundbreaking research and academic excellence. This funding allows them to continue their journey to transform our world through their research, leadership and desire to make a difference,” says Dr. Kelley Main, Dean, Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. “Congratulations to all of them on this outstanding achievement.” 

A total of 59 UM graduate students have been named Vanier Scholars over the past 17 years. 

“As someone of Azerbaijani heritage from Iran, I feel a deep kinship with Indigenous communities whose languages, lands, and traditions have shaped their identities for generations,” says Banihabib. “In Iran we also have different ethnicities, and when I was doing my projects in urban planning and design, I always focused on what minority or vulnerable groups would be affected by my design as an urban planner. That’s when I dived into political ecology which evolved into environmental justice.” 

Now at UM, her research is focused on helping Indigenous communities navigate the mining industry. To support her in her project, she applied for and received the Berkes Graduate Scholarship. She was nervous to apply at first, but in going through the process, she discovered what mattered most was not whether or not she received the scholarship, but what the impact of her work was going to be on the community. 

“Receiving the Berkes Graduate Scholarship has been both a profound affirmation of my work and a practical lifeline,” she says. “They saw value behind an idea that a Knowledge Keeper had but didn’t know how to put it into action, and that’s where scholars and the community can come together.” 

Her project began by speaking and building a relationship with Walter, the mining Knowledge Keeper in Kenora, on Treaty 3 territory, which is where her project is based. When a mining company wants to begin work in a certain area, they request an exploration permit from the government. Then the government has to share that permit, which includes the details about the location, the project and the mining activity, with the community.  

Before any mining action can happen, there is a 30-day window where the public can make comments on the proposal or claim the land as cultural or heritage land. As Banihabib started building trust with Walter, he mentioned that while First Nations communities are aware of these proposals, most of them don’t have the proper time or the platform to react to these activities. With so many proposals coming in, Walter said he was having a hard time managing them and making appropriate claims or comments, which is where Banihabib found an opportunity to help.  

“Their decision to trust me with co-creating tools that translate complex mining data into accessible maps and alerts fills me with gratitude and humility,” she says. “Knowing that my skills can ease community planning around resource impacts and support local decision-making makes every long day of this journey worthwhile, and it is an honour to return these results as a gift of respect and partnership.” 

Financially, she said the scholarship also relieves the burden of travel, housing, and field‐work expenses. She says that not having to worry about making ends meet allows her to spend more time listening to and addressing the diverse needs of community members affected by mining activities, and to co-design Geographical Information System tools that deliver maps and alerts tailored to those needs.  

“This scholarship has strengthened my confidence and resolve,” she says. “It confirms that the community‐based approach I’m championing—rooted in respectful partnerships with Grand Council Treaty 3 First Nation communities—is valued by leaders in the field. I feel empowered to delve deeper, share results in accessible formats, and uphold the principles of Indigenous-led conservation every step of the way.”  

What does a future fueled by generosity look like? It’s in the faces of new graduates with big ideas, in bold research solutions for Manitoba and the world, and in community initiatives coming to life in collaborative ways. Here, a legacy of philanthropy is shaping the leaders, innovators and change-makers of tomorrow. Learn how you can get involved.

“We estimated that we should have different sources of phosphorus, including dust from agricultural land or pollen from trees around the lake and another component would be wildfire,” said Dr. Masoud Goharrhoki, a research associate from the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the University of Manitoba.

Goharrhoki has been working with the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium for the past year.

To read and watch the entire story, please follow the link to CTV Winnipeg.

A major UM breakthrough is making waves in the paleontology world lead by team led Dr. Melina Jobbins, postdoctoral fellow at the PaleoSed+ lab in the Department of Earth Sciences of the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources.

Dr. Jobbins unearthed this new genus of placoderm (plate + skin) fish right here in Lake Manitoba near Lundar, Manitoba.

This fish is one of our oldest ancestors with jaws and will help us to understand the origins of jaws and teeth in the evolution of life.

Jobbins says while this is the first of its kind in Manitoba, she suspects there are some in North Dakota, and even in Saskatchewan.

If you want to see the fossils of this new fish in person go check them out at the Geological Sciences Museum, next to the Ed Leith Cretaceous Menagerie, in the Wallace Building on the Fort Gary Campus. The museum is open 8:30-4:30 on weekdays.

Dr. Jobbins spoke with CTV about the discovery. To watch the story, please follow the link to CTV Winnipeg.

“When I came here as a permanent resident with my wife and children, I was looking for a new challenge and opportunity,” he says.

A new academic challenge

He had started working towards achieving his practicing license with the National Committee on Accreditation and had written one exam for administrative law and was looking for a new academic challenge, and was considering the future possibility of becoming a professor of law at a Canadian University. An LLM would be a starting point, he thought.

His thesis title was “Mediation practice in Nigeria: experiences from Abuja and Ondo with lessons from Ontario, Canada”, completed with Professor Darcy MacPherson of the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Law as his advisor.

Ayita completed his LLB in 2015 at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. While there, he received the Presidential Award as the best graduating student in Commercial Law, as well as the Attorney General of the Federation Award in the same subject during the 2015 convocation. He also won the National Essay Competition on the topic “Nigeria at 50, the past, the present and the future,” funded by Intercontinental Bank (now Access Bank), which was – significantly, how he obtained his first laptop. Additionally, he was the first runner-up in the continental essay competition titled “The Immorality of Self-Interest [The Morality or otherwise of Capitalism],” organized by African Liberty and IMANI in 2011.

He concluded his legal practice training at The Nigerian Law School in Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria in 2016. As a next step, he obtained a certificate in Arbitration at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London, UK in 2017 and then received certification in conflict and dispute resolution at the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolutions in 2021. He further earned a certificate in Conflict Management Skills at the University of Toronto (2022) followed by certification in Reconciliation and Restoration at Forgiving For Restoring Canada. At this time in 2023, he completed some of the requirements of the Federation of Law Societies of Canada to pass his Bachelor of Laws Equivalency Examination and then commenced the Master of Laws program at the University of Manitoba in 2023.

Having practiced law in Nigeria and studied mediation and alternative dispute resolution both there and in Canada, Ayita found it impossible to ignore his calling to further his education and deepen his studies in law.

UM’s policies of accommodation and inclusion attractive

He was drawn to the University of Manitoba for his LLM having researched Canadian universities and learned that UM “has been established for more than a century and has produced a lot of policymakers,” as well as “those who are also at the forefront of access to justice in Canada as well as in the global community.” Additionally, he notes that UM’s policies of accommodation and inclusion were another thing that attracted him.

“I landed in Canada October 26, 2022,” he says, “so it’s like less than a month that I came in and about approximately a month that I applied to the school, so I was just trying to settle down.”

Teaching law someday was on his mind when he made the decision to apply for the LLM program. “Most of what I’ve been doing – about 80% of what I’ve done all my life has been the issue of building capacity teaching and imparting knowledge. And now I really want to do that. One of the motivations [to do the LLM] is to become a professor and to also influence policies in the area of access to justice, because access to justice is an ongoing crusade.”

Engaging in community

Beyond legal studies, volunteering in community is important to Ayita. During his time as a Master of Laws student, he served as a volunteer facilitator with the Speaker Bureau for the Centre for Human Rights Research at the University of Manitoba for a year. He also served as class president for the LLM program from September 2023 to May 2025. He participated in the Community Venture/Salvation Army fundraising event in December of 2024 and took part in the university’s community seed planting initiative. Even before arriving in Canada, he volunteered as national coordinator for AFSEN (Alliance for Sustainable Environment Nigeria), focusing on environmental protection and sanitation. There, he led a team in sanitation activities, planted new trees, and educated teenagers on water use and waste disposal.

Speaking from his experience working as Director of Training and Development at the Mediation Training Institute in Nigeria and as a lawyer and conflict coach, he says, “Everybody wants to access justice in all facets of humanity such as divorce and in all your legal needs. You want justice to be served, and I believe going into this program will assist me to be able to have that proper foundation through research and development.”

Having knowledge and research skills to influence government policy is also in his sights. “I look forward to one day becoming a professor in any of the universities in Canada,” he says, “and also be able to influence policy in the decision-making in government.”

Focus on what matters

Ayita has observed, that policy and decision-makers tend to focus on exciting topics such as crime, which tend to get the most media hits. He speaks passionately about what is not getting enough attention when it comes to access to justice: “You don’t want to focus on housing, on the issue of environment, on things that are dear to people like family, but these are the areas that are most needed and people are yearning for access to justice.”

His thesis delves into how the tools of mediation may be used to achieve access to justice. Most of the challenges to access to justice when pursuing a path of litigation, he notes, include delay in proceedings, costs and the complexities of court procedures. Costs are both implicit and explicit, not to mention the psychological cost of litigation. “You realize that all these are not the same when parties have to go through the route of mediation,” he observes.

[G]oing through mediation, they realize that there are no more enemies but they want to work together to see how the parties involved can reach a truce that will most accommodate their differences that also align their interests.
– Oluwafisayo Stephen Ayita [LLM/25]

Mediation, he says, enables parties to overcome the many challenges that form barriers to access to justice including delay and procedural complexity. “It also helps the party to retain what is most important to them. We have realized because the process has been regarded as a kind of legal combat, where parties duel to death, that going through mediation, they realize that there are no more enemies but they want to work together to see how the parties involved can reach a truce that will most accommodate their differences that also align their interests.”

A highly recommended course of study

During his time at Robson Hall, Ayita has worked with instructors, faculty and staff including Natasha Brown [BEd/01; LLB/05], Director of Access to Justice and Community Engagement, and Dr. Michelle Gallant, who also works in conflict resolution. Dr. Donn Short, Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies at the Faculty of Law, taught the mandatory graduate seminar for the LLM program, which teaches how to write a thesis and fundamental research skills. “The graduate seminar has been quite helpful,” said Ayita, who took it in his first term of the program. At the time, he explained, each student undertook four assignments related to their thesis including an annotated bibliography to teach them how to identify the sources they would be using for their main thesis. “The research seminar has helped me in particular and I believe it also has helped my colleagues to be able to bring together our aspirations.”

“All these have enabled me to be able to now understand how to carry out research as well as how I can use that to improve on my main thesis, such as this search format, the McGill Research format, the sources, how to write, and notes to include when you are paraphrasing, restate, quote, you know, then when you’re also making your own statement.

So the research seminar has helped me to be able to understand how to be able to go through the authorized format and avoid academic misconduct and fraud. It also has been able to [ensure] that all my work will be genuine. That’s very, very useful.”

Ayita recommends taking an LLM to anyone wanting an academic challenge and looking to deepen their knowledge of the law, “I have been encouraging people,” he said, calling Robson Hall one of the best law faculties in Canada whenever he mentions to people that he is studying here. “I’m proud to be here,” he said.

Ayita’s pursuit of academic challenges is not over yet. In September, he will be a member of UM’s first cohort of Internationally Trained Lawyers and will be taking one of the two Micro-Diplomas now offered in Canadian Private or Canadian Public Law, designed to help such lawyers qualify to practice law in Canada. Then, he will be fully able to practice law in Canada.

Learn more about UM’s LLM program.

Learn more about UM’s Internationally Trained Lawyer program.