Janessa Dumas Colomb, 17, from Manitoba, hails from Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, also known as Pukatawagan, and serves as the 2024 Manitoba Champion Child, advocating for children relying on HSC Children’s Hospital. After her own seven-year journey with recurring illness and a successful kidney transplant, she has raised awareness of the challenges faced by children from remote communities needing specialized care. Janessa has spoken at over 20 events, championing projects like the Indigenous Community Healing Space at HSC Children’s. Her advocacy fosters culturally safe care, equitable access, and healing for families away from home, inspiring support for children and youth across Manitoba, Nunavut, and Northwestern Ontario.