Meagan Barabash of Martensville and originally of Preeceville was presented with a
Barabash is the daughter of Lawrence and Shelly Barabash of Preeceville.
"I am truly humbled and blessed," stated Barabash. "To be recognized amongst the amazing ladies that were nominated is amazing. I’ve struggled with taking credit for the work I do. To me, it is just what I do. I don’t always see it as special or something to be celebrated. The countless hours I spend on developing programs, the money I donate to my scholarship funds, the vulnerability I show, I never ever give a second thought to it. I’ve been criticized in the past that I don’t give myself enough credit and need to see myself through everyone else’s eyes. Even typing that makes me feel uncomfortable!
This award though, has truly made me feel that the work I do is special. The selfless work I do is recognized as being special to an incredible group of powerful and influential people. That is pretty cool. That has made my heart so happy.
“With this award, I am even more motivated to continue doing the work I do each and every day with lots of love and gratitude," said Barabash.
Barabash and her husband built Bravo Dance Co. on the foundations of creativity, teamwork, and growth. The studio is a place where dancers learn, excel, grow, and develop lifelong skills.
Bravo Dance Co. was founded in 2015 in Martensville, as a premier dance studio for children to learn, grow, and excel at dance while participating in an atmosphere that is supportive, pressure-free, and purposeful, said Barabash. Dance should be a place where children are excited to go; where they get to learn, socialize, and feel like a part of a team. This is the goal at Bravo Dance Co.
Not only are dancers taught dance skills and technique, but also lifelong skills and qualities such as teamwork, self-confidence, self-awareness, and work ethic. Dancers are taught by a staff that has experience in all genres of dance from ballet to tap to hip-hop and even Ukrainian dance. The staff at Bravo Dance Co. is not only a group of people who have danced, performed, and taught their entire lives across Saskatchewan, but also includes professional members who are seasoned on the international stage. The staff looks forward to seeing their students excel and learn in the dance world, and also in all areas of their lives.
"Everyone should not only get the chance to experience dance, but should also get to experience dance at the Bravo Dance Co," said Barabash.
Barabash has many other accomplishments including: CEO, Founder, Artistic Director for Bravo Dance Co., and Kidz Korner at the Bravo Dance Co. and sponsorship of a Community Impact Scholarship for Saskatchewan high school graduates and the charitable event Martensville ColouRun. She mentors and coaches, as well serving as a public speaker and a confidence and mental health advocate.
The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards are recognized nationally as one of the most prestigious awards for women according to online information. Since 1982, the YWCA Saskatoon Women of Distinction Awards have honoured hundreds of women for their inspirational leadership and extraordinary contributions to their communities.
All proceeds from Saskatoon’s Women of Distinction Awards are designated to YWCA Saskatoon, for community programs and services to improve the well-being of women, girls and families.
Miss Millicent Simcox, a deaconess with the Church of England, had established Traveler’s Aid as support for women unfamiliar with the city. The Christ Church Women’s Association and The Golden West Chapter of the I.O.D. E. recognized the work Miss Simcox had undertaken and began the process to establish the YWCA Saskatoon Women of Distinction Award.
