Waves of Change: Innovators and Pioneers Celebration to Take Place March 7, 2026

Fort McMurray, AB — Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, in partnership with presenting sponsor Bouchier, is proud to announce Hanna Fridhed as the first Woman of Inspiration for 2026, to be honoured during the upcoming celebration, Waves of Change: Innovators and Pioneers on March 7, 2026. This year’s theme honours women who have left an incredible mark in STEM, entrepreneurship, and the creative arts.

Hanna, the first Woman of Inspiration, exemplifies leadership in the creative arts as a dedicated community advocate, artist, and promoter of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and beyond. By founding and directing her theatre company, Swamp Rat Experience, she has demonstrated how artistic innovation can foster safe, inclusive environments where youth and adults are empowered to express themselves, build confidence, and connect through creative expression. Her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wood Buffalo further amplifies her commitment to harnessing the power of the arts to inspire and uplift her community.
Her commitment to inclusive programming is evident in her advocacy for gender-neutral language, cultural representation, and the design of youth programs that are accessible to all. She is dedicated to ensuring that every young person feels seen, heard, and valued.

Hanna embodies the core values of Girls Inc.—being Strong, Smart, and Bold: 

Strong: As a leader and mentor, she fosters emotional intelligence, self-care, and healthy communication in both professional and artistic environments.

Smart: She turns every moment into a learning opportunity, guiding and mentoring youth and peers with patience and compassion.

Bold: Whether leading a team, launching an inclusive musical, or cheering on a young performer, she leads with courage, creativity, and heartfelt conviction.

In her own words, “Everybody has a story, and everybody just needs the venue to tell their stories and the confidence that your story is worth not just telling, but being heard.”

Originally from Sweden, Hanna moved to Fort McMurray in 2013 and transformed her feelings of isolation into opportunities. What started as ushering at a local theatre became a life- changing entry into the arts. Having been active in the performing arts community for over a decade, she founded Swamp Rat Experience in 2021, a theatre company that champions representation and personal growth. Notably, her production of RENT The Musical brought together a diverse cast and crew, many of whom were performing on stage for the first time. “Our motto was simple,” she says. “Everyone can sing, everyone can dance, everyone can act—you just have to be given the right tools.”

In addition to her professional achievements, Hanna’s dedication is deeply personal. She’s a mother, wife, friend, and mentor who uplifts those around her, whether it’s by staying up late to complete a grant, supporting a staff member through a tough day, or encouraging a child to take their first steps on stage.

“Hanna embodies the spirit of our Women of Inspiration series,” says Beverly Tjarera, Interim Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta. “She leads with imagination and empathy, sparking change by creating space for others to shine. She is a true pioneer of possibility.”

Join us on March 7, 2026, as we celebrate Hanna Fridhed and the Waves of Change she continues to inspire across our region.

Our next deadline for nominations is August 30, 2025. Do you know an extraordinary woman who has made a lasting impact in STEM, entrepreneurship, or the creative arts? Don’t miss the chance to celebrate her brilliance!
Nominate her now  and help us continue to honour the trailblazers who inspire waves of change in our community.