Twelve Manitobans from fields including sports, medicine, music, business and community leadership will receive the province’s highest honour Thursday, July 16, as they are invested into the Order of Manitoba.

The formal ceremony begins at 4 p.m. at the Manitoba Legislative Building and will be presided over by Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville, who serves as chancellor of the Order of Manitoba. The ceremony will also be livestreamed for the public.

Established in 1999, the Order of Manitoba recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and made lasting contributions to the social, cultural or economic well-being of the province. Recipients are entitled to use the initials O.M. after their names for life.

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“The 12 exceptional Manitobans being inducted into the Order of Manitoba this year epitomize what makes Manitoba so special,” Neville said in a statement.

“From world-class athletes and gifted musicians to compassionate community leaders and brilliant medical and scientific minds, their diverse achievements reflect the extraordinary breadth of talent, dedication and service across our province.”

This year’s recipients are:

Tracy Dahl, internationally acclaimed opera singer and vocal educator.

Andrew Harris, former Winnipeg Blue Bombers running back and founder of the Thirty3 Foundation.

Chantal Kreviazuk, Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter and War Child Canada ambassador.

Jocelyne Larocque, Olympic medallist and Professional Women’s Hockey League defender.

Dr. Peter MacDonald, internationally recognized orthopedic surgeon and longtime team physician for the Winnipeg Jets and Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Ash Modha, CEO of Mondetta Clothing and philanthropist.

Brian Pallister, Manitoba’s 22nd premier.

Dr. Joss Reimer, physician, educator and Canada’s chief public health officer.

Diane Roussin, Indigenous social innovator and community leader.

Elder Billie Schibler, Métis Elder and advocate for children and families.

Dr. Lotfollah Shafai, University of Manitoba researcher and pioneer in satellite and wireless communications.

Douglas Stephen, hospitality entrepreneur and philanthropist.

Appointments to the Order of Manitoba are made by the chancellor based on recommendations from an advisory council. A permanent display recognizing all Order of Manitoba members is housed in the Manitoba Legislative Building.

The investiture ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Thursday and will be available to watch online through the Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba’s official YouTube channel.