Lotta Hitschmanova (1909 – 1990)

Dr. Lotta Hitschmanova was a humanitarian leader whose sense of compassion inspired her to found and dedicate her life to the Unitarian Service Committee of Canada (or USC Canada, now called SeedChange). Born in Prague, she worked as a journalist for several newspapers and completed her PhD at Prague University. She came to Canada as a refugee during World War II, and in 1945, she founded the Unitarian Service Committee help individuals – particularly children – suffering after World War II. Under Hitschmanova's leadership, USC Canada became one of the country's first international development agencies. Wearing a homemade uniform and military-style cap, she appeared in television and radio ads on behalf of USC, where her sincere message resonated with countless Canadians. From the 1940s to the 1970s, Hitschmanova raised millions of dollars for USC Canada's efforts to help people in need around the world. She was recognized with numerous honours and awards, including the Red Cross of France and the Order of Canada.

“We are here in this world to help each other and to make this world a better place to live. That is my philosophy of life.”