Originally from Rwanda, Angélique Ruzindana Umunyana settled in Yellowknife in 2005, never imagining that the North would become her anchor. A scientist by training — with a master’s degree in chemistry and a PhD in microbiology — she combines analytical precision with a sharp writing style. Since 2018, she has been writing and editing manuscripts, notably contributing columns to L’Aquilon under the title If Immigrants Got Involved.

In 2021, her piece “My Name Is Not George, I Am George” won the Excellence Award for Column of the Year. Two years later, she received the Jeanne-Dubé Award for her commitment to the Franco-Ténois community. More recently, the King Charles III Coronation Medal recognized her meaningful contribution to enhance the Northwest Territories.

Balancing science, literature, and community engagement, Angélique has carved out a path marked by passion, precision, and a deep attachment to her adopted home.