Two people have been recognized for their extensive volunteerism, advocacy and leadership both in this province and around the world.

The 2019 Red Cross Humanitarian Awards of Newfoundland and Labrador were held last night at the Delta Hotel.

Anne Whalen of Placentia took home the 2019 Humanitarian Award, while Memorial University student Matthew Raske won the Young Humanitarian Award.

Anne Whalen was honoured for her work as an entrepreneur, as CEO of Seafair Capital—a company that provides care to hundreds of people in NL, including seniors, children, and people with intellectual disabilities. She is also an advocate for women entrepreneurs.

Whalen says there are a lot of people in this province who could have won the award, saying she is both ‘floored’ and ‘honoured’ to receive it.

Whalen says she found herself in a difficult time at the beginning of her career. She says her experiences have given her empathy towards those who are struggling. Helping others, Whalen feels, is the most rewarding work, and she says she happy to do it.

Matthew Raske was awarded the title of 2019 Young Humanitarian for his work of raising awareness of human trafficking and injustices against Indigenous people. He is one of the founding members of the St. John’s Youth Social Justice Committee, and regularly participates in humanitarian aid missions.