Regional News | October 7, 2025
Jesse Wiebe Named 2025 Recipient of the Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award
SREDA is proud to announce Jesse Wiebe, Community Development Lead at Startup TNT, as the recipient of the 2025 Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award.
This annual award celebrates emerging leaders who are passionate advocates for the Saskatoon Region business community and demonstrate strong volunteerism through their service on local boards.
Named in honour of Wanda Hunchak, who served on SREDA’s Board of Directors for over eight years, including as Chair and Vice Chair, this award recognizes the next generation of leaders who share her commitment to entrepreneurship, economic development, and community-building.
Jesse exemplifies the spirit of this award through his leadership, volunteer service, and unwavering commitment to the growth and success of the Saskatoon Region business community. A tireless advocate for local business, Jesse supports small and medium-sized enterprises through mentorship, collaboration, and community-focused programming. Whether through his professional work or volunteer efforts, he is known for bringing people together to create opportunities, solve challenges, and strengthen the region’s economic landscape.
In addition to his work at Startup TNT, Jesse currently serves as President of the Board for the Saskatoon Chapter of Saskatchewan Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (SYPE), where he plays a key role in connecting and empowering the next generation of leaders in Saskatoon. Under his leadership, SYPE has expanded its events and outreach, fostering stronger ties between young professionals and the broader business community.
Jesse also serves on the Advisory Board for the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), where he helps guide program development to ensure alignment with regional workforce and economic needs. His contributions support long-term capacity-building and create new opportunities for Indigenous students across Saskatchewan.
“Jesse is an incredible example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart,” said Wanda Hunchak. “His dedication to supporting others, building connections, and driving meaningful change reflects the very values this award was created to honour. I’m so proud to see his leadership recognized and can’t wait to watch his continued impact in the years ahead.”
Jesse was presented with the 2025 Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award at SREDA’s Fall Economic Update Presentation on October 7, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the Saskatoon Region and his dedication to strengthening the local business community.
Nominations for the 2026 Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award will open early next year.
