ESTEVAN — Six women have been nominated for the 2025 Outstanding Contribution to the Workplace Award, presented by TS&M Supply. The award recognizes women who exceed workplace expectations to inspire, mentor and support others, creating meaningful change in their professional environment and community. Nominees must have a minimum of five years in the workplace and demonstrate long-term, positive impacts.
This year’s nominees are Donna George, Shelagh Eskra, Lianne Kenler, Angela Smeltzer, Brenda Mantei and Maribel Cabezudo.
(Introductions based on submitted nominations).
Donna George
Born and raised in Estevan, George is known for her steadfast support of both family and community. As the middle of five siblings, she plays a central role in her family’s life—organizing medical appointments for her parents and 小蓝视频 a reliable source of support for her extended family.
Her generosity extends far beyond her household. From volunteering at local rinks to preparing chemotherapy treatments before her workday begins, to cooking meals for those in need, George demonstrates daily what it means to give selflessly. She is recognized for her compassion, authenticity and unwavering commitment to others.
Shelagh Eskra
Eskra is the vice principal at Spruce Ridge School in Estevan.
A dedicated educator, Eskra balances her professional responsibilities with continuing education, family life and deep community involvement.
She actively participates in the Estevan and District Music Festival, children’s sports and dance, while also maintaining strong personal and professional relationships.
Eskra is recognized for her grace in managing multiple roles and for the positive energy she brings to her workplace and beyond.
Lianne Kenler
Kenler, born and raised in Redvers, has built a career rooted in education and safety. She is currently the safety manager at Preferred Energy and holds certifications as a special care aide, teachers associate and certified health safety and environmental practitioner (CHSEP).
Kenler is also a dedicated volunteer. She has served as vice-president of the Redvers Recreation Centre, played key roles in rink and pool development, and participated in arts fundraising, early childhood programs, drama productions, hockey school and CanSkate. Her active lifestyle and commitment to community service have made her a respected leader and contributor in her region.
Angela Smeltzer
Smeltzer has spent decades fostering a culture of lifelong learning in Estevan. After beginning her teaching career in Ontario, she moved to Saskatchewan in 1990 and has worked at Pleasantdale Elementary School since 2002. She teaches students from kindergarten to Grade 8 and is known for managing split-grade classrooms with skill and empathy.
Smeltzer applies response to intervention (RTI) strategies to support students’ academic and emotional development. Her ability to connect with students through realistic, compassionate teaching makes her an inspiring figure in the classroom and community.
Brenda Mantei
A lifelong Estevan resident, Mantei farms and ranches south of the city with her husband Cecil. They raised three children nearby and now enjoy close relationships with their 12 grandchildren.
In addition to her family roles, Mantei is secretary and treasurer for the Estevan Exhibition Association and manages accounting for various organizations and businesses. She co-owns and manages Matt’s Car Wash, a family business founded by her parents in 1980.
Mantei is celebrated for her dedication, humility, and tireless work ethic.
Maribel Cabezudo
Originally from Lima, Peru, Cabezudo earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in university teaching before moving to New York, where she studied at Manhattanville College. She returned to Peru to teach English and later moved to Saskatchewan in 2012.
Her Canadian early childhood education career began at the Estevan Daycare Co-operative in 2013. Two years later, she joined the Arcola Daycare as a full-time educator. She became supervisor in 2022 and director in 2024.
Cabezudo is recognized for her leadership, dedication to children, and her commitment to education in her new community.
The 2025 小蓝视频east Women of Distinction Awards luncheon will take place May 2 at the Power Dodge Curling Centre.
