Canada's Premiers Announce 2026 Literacy Award Recipients

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 8, 2026 /CNW/ -- In honour of International Literacy Day, Canada's Premiers announced the recipients of the 22nd annual Council of the Federation Literacy Award. The Award is presented in each province and territory and celebrates exceptional achievement, innovative practice, and excellence in literacy. The recipients of the 2026 Council of the Federation Literacy Award are: The Pincher Creek Community Adult Learning Council Society – AlbertaShanti Ang – British ColumbiaMadeline Harper – ManitobaTom Dawe – Newfoundland and LabradorLesley Anthony – New BrunswickNicole Poirier – New BrunswickMary Jane Kunkel – Northwest TerritoriesSada Kabamba – Nova ScotiaTeresa Qiatsuq – NunavutJason Quinlan – OntarioValarie Kneebone – Prince Edward IslandBrigitte Perreault-Simard – QuébecLloydminster Learning Council Association – SaskatchewanDenise McDiarmid – Yukon "On behalf of Canada's Premiers, congratulations to the inspiring recipients of the 2026 Council of the Federation Literacy Award," said R.J. Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories and Chair of the Council of the Federation. "Literacy underscores the values we share as Canadians: supporting one another, making sure everyone has a chance to learn, and helping people reach their full potential. To this year's recipients: thank you for the difference you're making in the lives of others. Your stories are a powerful reminder that it's never too late to learn something new." Established in 2004, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award celebrates the achievements of adult learners pursuing literacy education and recognizes the outstanding contributions of Canadians who are advancing literacy across the country. Presented annually in each province and territory, the Award honours learners, educators, volunteers, community organizations, and businesses for their commitment to strengthening literacy and lifelong learning. Each Award recipient receives a certificate, signed by the Premier of their province or territory, as well as a Council of the Federation Literacy Award medallion. The Council of the Federation comprises all 13 provincial and territorial Premiers. It enables Premiers to work collaboratively, form closer ties, foster constructive relationships among governments, and show leadership on important issues that matter to Canadians. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION 2026 Council of the Federation Literacy Award Recipients The Pincher Creek Community Adult Learning Council Society – AlbertaFounded in 1995 to teach inmates basic literacy, the Pincher Creek Community Adult Learning Program (CALP) is now a cornerstone of adult education in southern Alberta. It serves learners in Pincher Creek, Piikani Nation, and nearby communities, supporting education, personal growth, and employment readiness. The Society offers a welcoming, non-judgmental environment focused on confidence-building and individualized learning. Programs include literacy and numeracy, digital skills, English language learning, and guidance for high school equivalency or post-secondary transitions. Low-cost, flexible delivery supports learners facing barriers such as transportation, finances, or anxiety. Led by Executive Director Monica Sczyrba-Davis, CALP remains committed to inclusion, resilience, and empowering adults to build skills and pursue opportunities. Shanti Ang – British ColumbiaShanti Ang is a dedicated literacy leader whose vision, collaboration, and commitment have strengthened literacy services locally and throughout British Columbia. Shanti stands out for her ability to build meaningful community partnerships while remaining closely connected to the learners she serves. As Literacy Outreach Coordinator and local Literacy Task Group leader, Shanti has strengthened collaboration, expanded literacy opportunities, and built community capacity. Through partnerships with Surrey Libraries, School District #36, and others, she has championed family literacy and helped develop programs like Read with Kids, StoryWalks®, Book Buddies, and Partners Adult Literacy Tutoring. In the past decade, she has transformed the READ Surrey/White Rock Society from a one-person operation into a well-connected and impactful organization. Her hands-on, community-focused leadership continues to create lasting positive change. Madeline Harper – ManitobaMadeline Harper is a life-long learner and emerging leader in adult literacy. From Garden Hill First Nation, where Oji-Cree is her first language, she moved to Winnipeg with her eight children and enrolled in the Lord Selkirk Park Adult Learning Program to show them the importance of education and encourage them to complete their schooling. Her determination inspired all eight of her children to pursue their education, while opening new opportunities for her own learning journey. Madeline has since supported others through volunteer and professional roles, including teaching an Oji-Cree language class and serving as an Educational Assistant at the same literacy program she attended. Her goal is to establish an adult literacy program in Garden Hill First Nation so others can discover the life-changing opportunities of education. Tom Dawe – Newfoundland and LabradorThomas Dawe has devoted more than three decades to advancing adult literacy and lifelong learning across Newfoundland and Labrador. As Executive Director of Teachers on Wheels for over 32 years, he has helped thousands of adults strengthen their reading, writing, and essential skills through personalized tutoring and innovative community-based learning programs. A passionate educator, mentor, and community leader, Thomas has trained and supported generations of volunteer tutors while developing practical, engaging resources that make learning accessible and relevant. Under his leadership, literacy initiatives have expanded to serve newcomers, parents, adults with learning disabilities, and individuals seeking greater independence and opportunity. Inspired by a lifelong commitment to education and service, Thomas believes literacy is a powerful tool for personal growth and community development. His vision, dedication, and advocacy have transformed lives and created lasting opportunities for adult learners throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Lesley Anthony – New BrunswickLesley Anthony is a dedicated New Brunswick educator whose career has transformed literacy access for students who are blind or have low vision. Lesley began her career in 1992 as a French Second Language teacher in Newfoundland and Labrador. Following her move to Woodstock, New Brunswick, in 2001, she went on to serve as an Education Support Teacher and, most recently, Program Consultant with the Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority (APSEA). Lesley has championed inclusive literacy through braille instruction, assistive technology, and adapted resources that empower students to succeed with confidence and independence. She has led innovative virtual initiatives, including Braille Club, Circle Time, and Tactile Adventures, connecting learners across Atlantic Canada and reducing isolation. A mentor and leader, Lesley inspires colleagues to embrace accessible practices. Her unwavering commitment has created lasting impact, opening doors to learning, belonging, and opportunity for countless students. Nicole Poirier – New BrunswickNicole Poirier is an inspiring leader in literacy in New Brunswick. As a Learning Support Teacher at Abbey-Landry School in Memramcook, she guides young learners in developing their literacy, numeracy, and language proficiency skills. Through her language clinics and close collaboration with families, daycare centres, and community partners, she fosters a lasting love of reading and writing. A published children's author and dynamic facilitator, she promotes the French language through her books and activities across the province. Her exceptional dedication inspires children, parents, and educators alike, strengthening an inclusive and vibrant culture of literacy. With creativity and passion, she mobilizes the community and leaves a meaningful and lasting impact on the province. Mary Jane Kunkel – Northwest TerritoriesMary Jane (MJ) Kunkel was born and raised in Tulita, Northwest Territories. As an accomplished artist, she is passionate about traditional crafts such as sewing and beading. Her artistic practice has played an important role in both her healing journey and her literacy learning. MJ attended residential school in Inuvik for five years. During that time, she lost both of her parents, yet she remained guided by their encouragement to persevere. Their influence helped shape her commitment to resilience, lifelong learning, and supporting others. Now 64, MJ has led literacy programs in her community for more than 25 years and is a strong advocate for addictions awareness. She actively participates in literacy and skills development opportunities and continues to inspire others through her determination and community leadership. Sada Kabamba – Nova ScotiaSada Kabamba is an adult learner and newcomer to Nova Scotia. Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sada spent five years in a refugee camp in Uganda, where financial barriers prevented him from attending high school. After arriving in Halifax in 2023, Sada embraced the opportunity to pursue his education. Despite language barriers and the challenges of adapting to a new culture, Sada excelled academically, earning his French Adult High School Diploma from Université Sainte-Anne in June 2026 while also strengthening his English language skills through English as a second language (ESL) classes. He will continue his education in the Electronic Engineering Technology program at Nova Scotia Community College. Sada's instructor notes that his positive attitude, kindness, and commitment to helping others have made him an inspiration to fellow learners and community members alike. Teresa Qiatsuq – NunavutOriginally from Kinngait (Cape Dorset), Nunavut, and raised in Iqaluit, Teresa Qiatsuq is an Inuk journalist and news anchor with CBC North's Igalaaq. She received the 2023 Outstanding Young Woman Award from Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women and is passionate about preserving and promoting the Inuktitut language. Having grown up in foster care and finding strength through sports, Teresa is dedicated to using her voice to highlight Inuit stories, culture, and community. Teresa's commitment to Inuktitut is seen in her daily broadcasting work, where she speaks Inuktitut every day and ensures the language is spoken first in her interviews and broadcasts. She is a strong role model for younger generations and an inspiration to those who are learning, maintaining, or strengthening their Inuktitut literacy and language skills, encourages others to continue speaking and valuing Inuktitut by showing that the Inuit language belongs in public spaces and the media. Jason Quinlan – OntarioJason Quinlan has shown incredible determination in turning his life around through education and hard work. After leaving school at 16 and facing many personal challenges, he made the decision to return to the Get SET (Skills, Education and Training) program at Mason Educational Centre to create a better future for himself and his family. With dedication and perseverance, Jason earned his high school diploma while building the skills and confidence needed to succeed. He is now completing pre-apprenticeship training and preparing for a career in the skilled trades through the Labourers' Union. Jason's journey is a powerful example of resilience, personal growth, and the impact that education can have. His positive attitude and commitment make him a truly deserving nominee and an inspiration to other adult learners. Valarie Kneebone – Prince Edward IslandThroughout her life, Valarie has been a primary caregiver for her children, an employee, a community volunteer, and a coach. She often focused on the well-being of others and helped them achieve their goals, while working little by little toward earning her own high school equivalency certificate (CAEC/GED). Valarie's lack of confidence in math caused her to put off pursuing the math and science credits required for her GED. After attending a presentation about the Workplace Essential Skills for Success (WESS) program which helps adults further their education, she decided to face her fears and tackle math head-on with support from the program. She was a keystone in the WESS program learning space; always encouraging her peers. In her 50s, Valarie achieved her lifelong goal and earned her high school equivalency certificate (CAEC). As an employee of the REACH Foundation, she continues to encourage others to improve their literacy skills and work toward their own educational goals. Valarie also now helps her daughter with her math homework, a task that seemed out of reach just a few short years ago. Brigitte Perreault-Simard – Québec A literacy learner at the Centre Alpha Papineau in Gatineau since 2014, Brigitte Perreault-Simard also completed the Action Social Assistance and Support Program. As a single parent of four children now aged 25, 23, 16, and 10, she first found her motivation in her desire to better support her children in their schooling. Brigitte Perreault-Simard developed a stronger sense of self-confidence and improved her leadership; at the Centre Alpha Papineau, she is president of the participants' committee and a peer helper for new learners. Proud of her contribution to her community and of the example of perseverance she sets for those around her, she aspires to represent learners from her region in the Regroupement des groupes populaires en alphabétisation du Québec (Québec Community Literacy Groups Association). Lloydminster Learning Council Association – SaskatchewanLloydminster Learning Council Association (LLCA) has been a champion of literacy and lifelong learning in Lloydminster and surrounding communities since 1975. Through innovative programs in family literacy, adult foundational learning, English language instruction, digital literacy and senior engagement, LLCA helps individuals of all ages build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections. Serving more than 1,800 learners annually, the organization recognizes literacy in its many forms, from reading and writing to communication, technology, and social participation. Lloydminster Learning Council Association's signature initiatives such as family literacy programming, the intergenerational pen pal project, newcomer supports, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library demonstrate the association's commitment to making literacy accessible, inclusive, and community centered. Guided by a learner-focused approach and strengthened through strong partnerships, LLCA continues to create opportunities for lifelong success, social inclusion, community belonging, and opportunities for everyone it serves. Denise McDiarmid – YukonDenise McDiarmid is a Learning Assistance Teacher at Hidden Valley Elementary School. She is the heart of the school community as a trusted advocate for students, a collaborative supporter of teachers and educational assistants, and a leader in inter-school partnerships. She is committed to lifelong learning for herself and her community. She has brought her expertise in structured literacy and use of data to create a school where literacy is prioritized, evidence-based practices are embraced, and all students are given the opportunity to succeed. In every aspect of her work, Denise demonstrates excellence, integrity, and a deep commitment to student success. SOURCE Council of the Federation Secretariat For more information: Paola St-Georges, Director of Operations and Communications, Council of the Federation Secretariat, (343) 961-5811, [email protected]