Honouring Excellence: Funke Olokude Receives the 2024 RISE Community Champion Award

NorQuest College is proud to announce that Funke Olokude, an instructor in the Language & Settlement Studies program within the Faculty of Skills and Foundational Learning, has received the prestigious 2024 RISE Community Champion Award from the Edmonton Newcomer Centre. 

This well-deserved recognition highlights Funke’s outstanding dedication to building inclusive communities, advocating for newcomer rights, and breaking down barriers for underrepresented and underserved groups. Her work reflects an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change and fostering environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

The RISE Community Champion Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in advancing equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Funke’s contributions extend beyond individual achievements; they represent a ripple effect that touches countless lives and strengthens the community fabric. 

In addition to her recent accolade, Funke’s contributions as an Instructor in the Language & Settlement Studies program at NorQuest College have profoundly impacted her students and colleagues. Her classroom serves as a space for transformation, where students not only gain academic knowledge but also build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. This dedication has earned her Jaye Fredrickson Teaching Excellence nominations in 2021, 2022, and 2024, a testament to the lasting impact she has made on her students. 

With nearly two decades of experience in social services, Funke has played pivotal roles in community leadership, including serving as the President of the Nigerian Canadian Association Edmonton, CEO of Hexagon Wellness Institute, and former Executive Director of the Ribbon Rouge Foundation. She has been a champion for equity, health advocacy, and systemic change, continually bridging gaps and building stronger connections within diverse communities. 

Funke’s dedication, both inside and outside the classroom, embodies the Faculty of Skills and Foundational Learning mission—to empower learners, inspire change, and create pathways to success. 

NorQuest College celebrates Funke Olokude for her exceptional achievements, leadership, and lasting contributions to education and community empowerment.