Lacombe’s Shalea Harder-Mah was among several Albertans recognized yesterday by the Ministry of Community and Social Services for their work preventing family and sexual violence, child abuse and bullying.

Harder-Mah was the winner of the Inspiration Award for Emerging Excellence for Youth, an award for those aged 24 and younger.

It was gratifying to know that her work to create a safer world was noticed.

“It really makes me feel like I’m getting somewhere with my efforts of ending sexual violence and raising awareness about it,” Harder-Mah said.

The 22 year old is the founder of a group at Red Deer College now known as the Sexual Wellness, Empowerment, Respect and Violence Education Group, which promotes healthy relationships and connects sexual assault victims with needed resources.

'I feel like I can make someone else's life a little bit easier'

Shalea Harder-Mah was one of several Albertans to receive an Inspiration Award from Community and Social Services Minister Irfan Sabir. (Government of Alberta)

Harder-Mah, who currently studies psychology at the University of Calgary, said her motivation to work in this area comes from personal experience of sexual violence.

“If I’m able to give that support back to others who are going through the same thing, I feel like I can make someone else’s life a little bit easier,” she said.

She has also worked at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Centre in Red Deer in a social media and events position.

That very organization was also recognized by the ministry, with the Group Award for Leadership in Sexual Violence Prevention.