The Shining Star MADA is awarded to an individual who has displayed outstanding dedication or has been responsible for outstanding accomplishments of local significance in the field of multiple births in a local community in Canada. One Shining Star award will be given out to each MBC Chapter annually.

The winner of the 2023 Shining Star award for the Edmonton Chapter – Edmonton Twin and Triplet Club - ETTC is Melanie Kowalczyk.

When she's not helping save children's lives as an Inpatient Surgery/Trauma Nurse at the renowned Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton, Mel is busy chasing after her own adorable 6-year old twins, Zoey and Jack and volunteering her time with the ETTC! Mel started her journey on the Executive Board for the Edmonton Twin & Triplet Club as Program Director, facilitating the "Managing Multiples" class for expecting parents.

As the first point of contact for many new members, Mel is integral in connecting families of multiples with each other and with the many resources the ETTC offers. As Program Director, she also sourced many innovative presentations and workshops centered around parenting, education, and personal growth/well-being. Mel has since moved in to the Core role of Secretary where she prepares for and ensures all the monthly Board meetings happen and the minutes/action items are recorded. 

Mel can always be counted on to take-on whatever task is needed - she has donated her time to help in many different areas including coordinating events, organizing our biannual clothing sales, and her favourite activity - cheque signing! Thank you Mel for helping the ETTC continue to operate and grow and for being an amazing advocate for families of multiples!

We are happy to award Melanie Kowalczyk for the Shining Star Award! Congratulations Melanie.

Her dedication is admirable and everyone in her Chapter appreciates her hard work.