January 15, marks Black Excellence Day. This commemorative day exists to celebrate and recognize just that: the enduring legacy, resilience, and countless accomplishments of Black communities the world over. It’s an exciting opportunity for us to spotlight those who boldly defy boundaries and embody excellence in every way.
“There's black brilliance stitched into our essence pure, powerful, and unapologetic.” – Elle McKinney
Black Excellence Day raises awareness by encouraging conversation about those challenging systemic barriers and leading the charge across an array of industries. We embrace the opportunity to commend extraordinary Black leaders shaping and influencing the worlds of art, politics, activism, medicine, education, business, and so much more. Their stories of courage, imagination, optimism, and strength fill us with hope and remind us that progress is constantly in motion.
Some notable Black Canadian changemakers who inspire us include:
The Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine was the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, serving from 1993 to 2006 in roles including Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Minister for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women, and Deputy Speaker. Her legacy of leadership and advocacy remains an inspiring point of national pride.
Wesley J. Hall is a Jamaican Canadian businessman, entrepreneur, and steadfast philanthropist for BIPOC business owners. He supports community empowerment – funding the BlackNorth Initiative, with a mission to end anti-Black racism in Canada. He has received numerous honours and awards for his work and currently serves as the 35th Chancellor of the University of Toronto.
Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a physician, spoken word artist, and health equity advocate – championing anti-racism in healthcare while advocating for innovation, inclusion, and compassion. In 2024, she authored her memoir, Unlike the Rest: A Doctor’s Story.
Weyni Mengesha is an award-winning Canadian stage and film director, having directed a number of ground-breaking works. She is also a dedicated educator, community engagement advocate, and mentor – providing a platform to diverse young artists on an international scale. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of Soulpepper Theatre in Toronto.
This is a mere fraction of the trailblazers who are changing the Canadian and global landscape for the better every day. These leaders and their peers are a testament to Black resilience, resourcefulness, potential, and unparalleled creativity.
Today we also celebrate those who may never receive public accolades but whose impact on their community and the world at large exudes excellence. To name a few, we thank the healthcare workers, educators, business owners, and neighbours who hold themselves to the highest of standards and promote meaningful change. Further, we commend the parents who are modelling, raising up, and nurturing the next generation of Black excellence at home every single day.
Black Excellence Day allows those who so often do not see their success stories at the forefront to see themselves reflected in positions of power, innovation, and influence. We hope that it will serve as a reminder that Black excellence is not the exception, rather, it’s the norm.
As we move forward, we know that we are in the ever-capable hands of innumerable Black innovators and individuals. We see the future they are helping to sculpt and it’s bright. Happy Black Excellence Day.
“I draw inspiration from my own personal adversity and triumphs and things that speak to my authentic truth and rawness and vulnerability.” – Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa
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