At Immigrant Services Calgary, we believe in honouring the remarkable contributions of immigrants and refugees to our vibrant and diverse community—which is why we launched the celebratory Immigrants of Distinction Awards (IDA) gala in 1997. Over 20 years later, this annual awards ceremony continues to bring hundreds of community and business leaders together to celebrate Calgary’s change-makers.

In our series of blogs highlighting the past year's award recipients, we now turn our attention to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) category. This award is presented to an immigrant or refugee who has achieved outstanding success in or made significant contributions to promoting science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) in Calgary. This individual has significantly impacted our city through their professional achievements and dedication to fostering innovation and excellence.

Meet Puneet Mannan: A Pioneering Leader in Calgary's Innovation Ecosystem

The winner of the 2023 IDA in the STEM category is Puneet Mannan. Originally from India, Puneet arrived in Canada in 2001 and has since become a pioneering leader in Calgary's innovation ecosystem. As the Associate Director of the Energy Transition Centre (ETC) at Innovate Calgary, he spearheaded the creation of Canada's first Energy Transition Centre, a global model for addressing net-zero emissions by 2050.

Puneet's leadership brought together government, industry, and academia, fostering nearly 40 energy startups. His contributions to establishing the Energy Transition Centre as a global center of excellence and fostering STEM talent exemplify his profound impact on Calgary's community. His work not only advances the field of energy transition but also cultivates a thriving environment for innovation and collaboration.

Puneet's journey is a testament to the significant contributions immigrants make to our communities and beyond. His efforts in driving technological advancements and supporting emerging STEM talent benefit countless individuals and industries, solidifying Calgary's position as a hub for innovation.

Watch Puneet Mannan's Story

Do you know someone like Puneet Mannan, who has made significant contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or math? Nominate them for the Immigrants of Distinction Awards 2024 and help us recognize their extraordinary achievements. Nominations close on June 17, 2024, so make sure to nominate someone today!