Each year, Winnipeg broadcaster and DJ Ace Burpee publishes his list of the 100 Most Fascinating Manitobans a wide-ranging celebration of people whose ideas, creativity, leadership, and curiosity have captured attention across the province.
In the most recent list, three individuals with strong Brandon University connections were recognized, highlighting the diverse and meaningful ways BU students, faculty, and alumni are contributing to their communities and beyond.
Madi Bootsman, a psychology student at Brandon University, was recognized for her exceptional leadership and advocacy. Bootsman is an active volunteer with the Brandon Humane Society, serves as secretary of the Brandon University Psychology Club, and is the founder of the Lend a Paw charity. Alongside her academic work, she has been a passionate champion for mental health, women's rights, and 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2025, her impact was further acknowledged when she was named a Young Woman of Distinction by the YWCA of Westman.
Also included on the list was Dr. Rhonda Hinther, professor of history at Brandon University and co-founder of BU's Public History program. A nationally respected scholar, Dr. Hinther has authored and contributed to numerous publications and has worked as an exhibit researcher for the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. In recognition of her innovative, student-centred approach to teaching history, she was named the 2025 recipient of the Canadian Historical Association's Excellence in Teaching Award.
Hashim Farooq was also named among Manitoba's most fascinating for his role in developing the CanMade app, which surged into Canada's top 10 downloaded apps earlier this year. Created in response to renewed conversations around trade and tariffs, CanMade allows users to scan products to learn where they are made and who manufactured them, empowering consumers to make informed choices. Farooq developed the app while working at Brandon University in Information Technology Services and has since moved on to new ventures. BU is proud of his connection to the university and the ingenuity reflected in his work.
In addition to these BU ties, a fourth Brandon connection also stood out. Angelina Zhang, a Grade 9 student from Brandon, earned national recognition after winning top prizes at both the Manitoba and Western Canadian science fairs before competing at the Canada-Wide Science Fair. Zhang received a Medal of Excellence for her groundbreaking research into alternative acne treatments. The Western Manitoba Science Fair, which helped launch her success, is hosted annually at Brandon University underscoring BU's role in supporting young researchers and fostering a culture of curiosity and discovery.
Congratulations to all those who made their own fascinating contributions to Brandon, Westman, Manitoba and beyond.
