Toronto, ON | July 7, 2025 — This past Saturday, the city of Brampton was ablaze with brilliance, pride, and legacy as over 50 leaders from across the African and multicultural diaspora in Canada were celebrated at the Canada Legacy Honours 2025.
Hosted by AWLO Canada in partnership with Yes Youth Women Can (YYWC), the event brought together changemakers, trailblazers, and visionaries for a night that affirmed the impact of diaspora excellence on Canada’s evolving story.
Honouring Trailblazers, Building Legacy
From the moment the red carpet was rolled out, it was clear: this was a celebration of more than just individual success. The Canada Legacy Honours 2025 recognized voices that echo across industries—medicine, entrepreneurship, public service, arts, and beyond. Each awardee represented a living legacy of impact, resilience, and innovation.
Mayor Patrick Brown was honoured as Champion of the People, while names like Dr. Kayode Ayodele, Nene Akintan, and Sasha L. Stewart reminded us of the extraordinary influence African and multicultural leaders have in healthcare, corporate Canada, and community advocacy.Notably, entrepreneurs like Grey Matlock Bakery, Love Beauty Supply, and Jonvic African Foods were celebrated for their cultural and economic impact—underscoring the vital role of business in heritage preservation and community empowerment.
Voices That Move the Room
Keynote speakers, including Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai and Rev. Dr. Grace Maduako, delivered powerful remarks on legacy and leadership. Their words resonated with a packed room filled with community leaders, creatives, and advocates—reminding everyone that the African diaspora is not just present in Canada’s future but instrumental in shaping it.Cultural performances elevated the energy, blending African, Caribbean, and global rhythms in a tribute to shared roots and evolving identities.
2025 Canada Legacy Honours Awardees & Categories
Mayor Patrick Brown – Champion of the People Award
Nene Akintan – Corporate Changemaker Award
Grey Matlock Bakery – Entrepreneurial Excellence Award
Lewis Akharayi – Construction & Infrastructure Leadership Award
Dr. Kayode Ayodele – Medical Leadership and Excellence Award
Dr. Ayoade Adeyemi – Excellence in Human Capital Development and Education Award
Bishop Parlash – Creative Entrepreneurship Award
Barrister Henry Igbinoba – Excellence in Law & Corporate Governance Award
Uyi Anegbe – Business Innovation & Technology Leadership Award
Jonvic African Foods – Cultural Heritage & Community Impact Award
Abiodun Ojo – Newcomer Support & Integration Leadership Award
Love Beauty Supply – Cultural Business Impact Award
Yetunde Adeyemi – Arts & Cultural Excellence Award
Kartik Adhiya – Excellence in Education & Youth Empowerment Award
Maurice Imadu – Community Leadership and Excellence Award
Janelle Tyme – Excellence in Naturopathic Medicine Award
Kingsley Jesuorobo – Justice & Human Rights Leadership Award
Maria Carolina Ojeda – Financial Literacy & Inclusion Award
Kateryna Kozhukhar – Business Leadership and Innovation Award
Erhi Ojoboh – Economic Empowerment Leadership Award
Rathika Sitsabaiesan – Public Service Leadership Award
Mary Wu (CCSYR) – Transformative Health & Community Impact Award
Svetlana Ratnikova – Newcomer Support & Integration Leadership Award
Abdikarim Omar – Voice of the Community Award
Adeola Abiodun – Economic Empowerment Leadership Award
Fazia Roopchan – Community Builder of the Year Award
Ann Fletcher – STEM & Future Skills Leadership Award
Chief Osarumen Izevbigie – Woman of Impact Award
Catherine Warega – Social Impact & Advocacy Award
David Akero – Youth Trailblazer Award
Cecilia V. Kamati – Startup Impact Award
Rosemary Jimoh-Anifowshe – Canadian Global Values Award
Dr. Marlyn Morris – Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Dahir Hashi B.Sc.D.C. – Holistic Health & Wellness Leadership Award
Mahad Yusuf – Community Leadership & Integration Award
Zainab Ansell (CEO, Zara Tanzania Adventures) – Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award
GeorgeWilliam Wilobo (MMA, BSC, SLT, DBSC) – Cultural Heritage & Community Impact Award
Dismas Kibungei – Global Diaspora Legacy Award
Sasha L. Stewart – Health Equity & Advocacy Award
Agatha Aheisibwe – Diaspora Woman of the Year Award
Chiamaka Osuji – Health & Wellness Leadership Award
Ruby Sahota – Frontline & Public Service Excellence Award
Deborah Inyang – Cultural Guardian Award
Candace Carter – Multicultural Impact Leadership Award
Aidy Thomas – Diaspora Diplomatic Leadership Award
Teniade Medupin – Corporate Changemaker Award
Abdihakim Hassan – Community Wellness and Empowerment Award
Nav Bhatia – Culture and Community Impact Award
Michael Okolie – Technology Leadership Award
Naomi Olapeju Sigismund – Advocate for Women – Hope4Sure
Huibing Henry Xiong – Excellence in Naturopathic Medicine Award
Mercy Osayi – Woman of Distinction Award
Afro Diaspora Pulse: Capturing the Culture
As official media partner, Afro Diaspora Pulse was on the ground, capturing unforgettable moments—from red carpet looks to emotional acceptance speeches and behind-the-scenes stories. The energy was electric, and we’re excited to share it with you!
Check out our exclusive photos and videos from the event, now available on all Afro Diaspora Pulse platforms.
Stay tuned for full honoree interviews, in-depth features, and community spotlights in upcoming issues of Afro Diaspora Pulse Magazine.
Why It Matters
The Canada Legacy Honours is more than an event—it’s a movement. In a society where the contributions of African and multicultural communities are often underrepresented, this awards gala stands as a powerful declaration:
…we see you, we honour you, and your legacy matters.
With honorees ranging from STEM leaders to public servants, healthcare pioneers to young changemakers, the 2025 edition of the Canada Legacy Honours was a vibrant reflection of the brilliance within Canada’s diverse diasporas.
Editor: Emmanuel Emmfo
