2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipients

From left to right: Talita Zampieri Lima Mendes, Lloyd Taganahan, Samantha Rematore and Ali Raja Memar.

Vancouver Community College (VCC) honoured its 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipients at an on-campus reception on Thursday, May 9. These awards are designed to celebrate career and community achievements of VCC alumni and supporters.

President and CEO Ajay Patel addressed this year's outstanding alumni, "your presence here not only honours the achievements of all of our alumni but also reinforces the values of excellence and community that we stand for here at VCC. Each of you showcase the remarkable breadth, talent and dedication we have in our alumni. Your success stories are a testament to the solid foundations you've received here at VCC and we could not be any more prouder."

Congratulations to VCC’s most recent Outstanding Alumni Award recipients:

 

Community Contribution: Samantha Rematore

A proud graduate of VCC's Health Unit Coordinator program, Samantha is making a difference at St. Paul’s Hospital by spearheading initiatives to improve patient care and elevate the community environment. Samantha also generously volunteers her time to support VCC students as they pursue their own careers in healthcare.

 

Career Success: Ali Raja Memar

Ali is a graduate from the LPN & BSN programs, who continues to inspire and support nursing graduates at Providence Health. From Clinical Mentor to volunteer speaker, Ali shares his journey from student to professional, offering invaluable insights and encouragement to VCC students.

 

Career Success: Talita Zampieri Lima Mendes

Talita came to Canada as an international student from Brazil. Despite the challenges, she showed unwavering commitment to her cosmetology studies, later opening two successful Salon and Spa businesses. Talita also provides study and mentorship opportunities for VCC students.

 

One to Watch: Lloyd Taganahan

Chef Lloyd, a passionate Red Seal chef who made history as the first Pinoy Chef in Vancouver to earn a Michelin Recommendation at Archer Restaurant, mentors VCC practicum students, shines in local food blogs, and fosters a vibrant and healthy kitchen culture.

These are the latest in a long line of VCC alumni and others who have made significant contributions to their industries and our community. Each recipient stands out with unique stories of success, inspiration, and dedication.

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Do you know a VCC alum or community member who deserves recognition? Learn about our awards nomination process through the VCC Foundation.