Many of us here at Green Action Centre are fortunate to work alongside (and for myself, find a mentor in) Beth McKechnie. Beth works with our Workplace Commuter Options program and is a true leader in the area of active transportation (AT), working tirelessly to improve opportunities for all aspects of sustainable transportation as a way of getting around our city.

Last night, we got to take a moment to celebrate this incredible woman as a nominee for the YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction awards. True to form, Beth was hard at work until minutes before we had to leave for the awards dinner! It was an incredible evening and a great opportunity for us to celebrate all that Beth has accomplished over the years.

Beth has a long-term vision for sustainable travel options and Complete Streets throughout Manitoba. She is an integral part of the City’s Active Transportation Advisory Committee, a member since its inception in 2007. Virtually every AT initiative has her stamp on it – from the Cyclist Map of Winnipeg that she first developed in 1999 to the growing success of the annual Commuter Challenge, to the sections of the Trans-Canada Trail in her neighbourhood – Beth’s work has meant many thousands of Winnipeggers are better able to enjoy walking and cycling for recreation or commuting. Beth is also a co-founder and manager of Peg City Car Co-op, which emphasizes AT through its tagline: “Bike. Walk. Bus. And Sometimes, Drive.”

It is an honour to work alongside such an inspiring and dedicated woman, who has also come to be such a great friend and mentor. Beth, you are our Woman of Distinction – CONGRATS!