York University
Currently a nursing student at York University, Leo Jhon Macawile takes every opportunity to spearhead or participate in events that celebrate leadership, community and diversity in the nursing profession. He is the current president of his school’s nursing student association, and also serves as the policy and political action executive network officer for RNAO’s Nursing Students of Ontario interest group. Leo works tirelessly to raise awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion in higher education, helping empower other nursing students to embrace the sociopolitical aspects of nursing. He has created and organized several equity-based initiatives – most notably, Canada’s first and largest student-led initiative to recognize the unparallel contributions of Filipino nurses in Canada. He also created a “Walk with Prof” initiative to encourage connections between students and faculty, and has organized celebrations for Asian Heritage Month, Black History Month and Pride Month.
The Student of Distinction award honours a current undergraduate nursing student who has made significant contributions acting as a change agent, resource and mentor within their undergraduate nursing program. This student also shows active involvement in RNAO regions/chapters/interest groups.
