Toronto, ON — Meridian Credit Union understands that homeownership is more than a financial milestone. It is a reflection of identity, family, and the stories that shape our lives. Today, Meridian is proud to celebrate two Members, Roz Riccardi and Ornela Carcani, who have been selected to receive $50,000 room transformations led by HGTV Canadian superstar and builder, Sebastian Clovis.
Roz, a first-time homebuyer, is embracing a new chapter alongside her daughter. Their home represents a fresh beginning and a chance to create a space that reflects both comfort and independence. Roz’s dream is to transform a bright, L-shaped room into a welcoming retreat and kitchenette where her daughter can flourish as she embarks on her career.
“Roz’s story is a beautiful reminder that a home is not just four walls, it is the foundation for new beginnings,” said Sebastian Clovis. “Design has the power to nurture confidence and belonging, and I’m honoured to help create a space where her family can thrive.”
For Ornela and her family, long-standing Meridian Members, the project represents something deeply personal: a gift of gratitude from a son to his parents. A recent graduate and aspiring trades professional, Ornela’s son shared how his parents, hardworking immigrants, purchased their first Canadian home in 2011. His vision is to give back by refreshing the family’s living room, a space where love, culture, and community converge.
“Every home tells a story,” said Susan LeBlanc, Vice-President of Marketing at Meridian Credit Union. “Roz and Ornela remind us that homeownership is about more than financial stability. It is about pride, identity, and the bonds that keep families connected. We are proud to help bring their stories to life.”
Meridian understands that housing attainability remains one of the most significant issues facing Canadians today. Beyond celebrating our Members through this contest, we are deeply engaged in solutions that support affordability and community well-being. This initiative highlights Meridian’s ongoing commitment to its Members, creating opportunities that reflect both community values and craftsmanship.
“One of the greatest privileges of my work is helping families build spaces that are a true reflection of who they are,” added Clovis. “Roz and Ornela’s journeys prove that when we invest in our homes, we invest in our futures.”
Meridian thanks all Members who shared their stories and continues to embrace opportunities that celebrate identity, strengthen community, and turn dreams into reality.
About Meridian Credit Union
Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union, and one of the largest in Canada. Guided by our purpose, “helping you achieve your best life,” Meridian delivers personal, and wealth financial business solutions to over 380,000 Members. Our bold Meridian for Good strategy is aimed at helping people get access to the money and advice they need; plan for a better future that is clean, resilient, and diverse; and be financially confident. Meridian has one operating subsidiaries: Meridian OneCap Credit Corp (“MOCC”). For more information, please visit: meridiancu.ca.
We acknowledge the land on which we operate is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. We also acknowledge that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.
Media Contact:
Erick Bauer, Meridian Credit Union
Media@meridiancu.ca; 416-587-4185