A message from IABC Edmonton:
Michelle Lean doesn't need awards to know she's made a difference. The communications director at pipikwan pêhtâkwan is already well aware of the intrinsic rewards that come from doing work such as leading digital campaigns for Truth and Reconciliation Week for the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
"Just seeing the impact that we've been able to have in terms of engagement ... and getting that message out there, inviting Canadians to learn about truth and reconciliation ... it's really meaningful to me," she said.
But earning recognition from her peers in communications is meaningful, too, and Lean was proud to be named Communicator of the Year at the 2025 Capital Awards, presented by IABC Edmonton last May.
"It was definitely a complete surprise," she said, noting that it was pipikwan pêhtâkwan's founder, Shani Gwin, who nominated her. "I've always known working with Shani that she respects me and appreciates my contributions, but to have her put that nomination in and for that to go through that selection committee … it is an honour to be recognized."
Lean graduated from MacEwan University's public relations program in 2004 after initially considering a career in journalism. She managed internal communications at EPCOR, where she supported those working in diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as Indigenous relations. She found that work particularly engaging, and when the opportunity presented itself to leap into the agency world with pipikwan pêhtâkwan, she took it.
In her four-and-a-half years with the communications, public relations, and engagement agency, Lean has had the opportunity to work with Indigenous community organizations that have important things to say but lack the internal resources to put together and execute on a communications strategy. Lean is happy to help. "They're really grateful for that support," she said. "And I find it's really impactful."
After more than two decades in the field, Lean has also grown into a mentorship role, guiding newer communicators as they build their careers while continuing her own professional development, earning a master of arts degree in international and intercultural communication from Royal Roads University.
Lean's agency won four Awards of Excellence in 2025: in issues management and crisis communication for the Canadian Medical Association's apology to Indigenous Peoples; in publications for Creating Connections for Children in Care; in non-profit sector communication for the Space of Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Alberta's Corbett Hall; and for diversity, equity, and inclusion for weaving Indigenous narratives into the Commonwealth Walkway. Regardless of whether it leads to recognition, Lean sees value in the awards submission process itself.
"It is really important to take that time, evaluate the success of a project, because that's what ultimately helps you be a better communicator," she said.
Submissions are open for the 2026 Capital Awards until April 17, but you have a little longer to nominate someone for the Awards of Distinction, which are due by May 1. Communications professionals throughout northern Alberta are eligible. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on May 28 at Fu's Repair Shop.