Two Saint John-area residents have been recognised nationally for contributions to their communities after immigrating to Canada. Mohamed Bagha, the former managing director of the Saint John Newcomer Centre, and comedian James Mullinger are among the 2026 Top 25 Canadian Immigrants, an award presented by Canadian Immigrant magazine.
Local representation on a national stage
Bagha and Mullinger were the only recipients from New Brunswick on this year’s list, which marked the 18th edition of the awards. The pair were selected from a field of 75 finalists, with winners determined by a combination of judges’ scores and public voting, according to the magazine.
Canadian Immigrant’s judging panel includes past winners and leaders working in immigrant and ethnocultural communities. The annual list recognises immigrants across the country who have made a positive impact since arriving in Canada, highlighting advocates, volunteers and entrepreneurs.
Mullinger, originally from the United Kingdom, moved to New Brunswick in 2014 and said he was surprised to learn he had made the Top 25. He described the honour as a significant career milestone and a source of pride for both honourees and the province.
“It feels like a real full circle moment after 12 years of living here,” Mullinger said. “It definitely feels very special, and I really couldn’t be prouder.”
Best known in the region for his work as a comedian and media appearances, Mullinger has appeared on CBC’s The Debaters and the documentary film City on Fire. During his time in Canada, he has raised more than $200,000 for charities and non-profit organisations. In a recent interview with Acadia Broadcasting, he said his motivation to give back comes from the welcome he received in New Brunswick and the opportunities Canada offered him.
What this recognition means locally
For Saint John, the acknowledgement underscores the role newcomers play in civic life and the city’s ongoing efforts to welcome and integrate immigrants. Bagha, who served as managing director of the Saint John Newcomer Centre, has been a visible figure in local settlement services and community support. The magazine noted Bagha and Mullinger together as symbols of the province’s contributions despite New Brunswick’s smaller population and profile.
- Winners: Mohamed Bagha; James Mullinger
- Selection: Combination of judges’ scores and public votes
- Finalists this year: 75; this is the 18th edition of the awards
The recognition may also provide a platform for both recipients to further amplify their work in the province. Mullinger noted the shared pride of being listed alongside Bagha, calling him “an icon not just of this community, but of the province.”
| Recipient | Local role | Notable details |
|---|---|---|
| Mohamed Bagha | Former managing director, Saint John Newcomer Centre | One of two New Brunswick honourees on the Top 25 list |
| James Mullinger | Comedian, media personality | Moved to New Brunswick in 2014; raised >$200,000 for charities |
As award recipients from a smaller province, Bagha and Mullinger’s presence on the national list may encourage further attention to New Brunswick’s immigrant communities and settlement work. For Saint John residents, the honours offer a moment to acknowledge the contributions newcomers bring to social, cultural and charitable life in the city and across the province.
