Toronto — The Ontario government has recognized 13 exceptional citizens at the annual Lieutenant Governor’s Legacy Awards, celebrating their contributions to equity, accessibility, creativity and civic engagement across the province.
This year’s ceremony, held at the Art Gallery of Ontario on September 15, honoured the legacies of four former lieutenant governors — Lincoln M. Alexander, Hilary M. Weston, James Bartleman and David C. Onley — by highlighting individuals whose work reflects their impact in combating racism, advancing mental health research, promoting Indigenous voices in literature, and championing accessibility.
The event also marked the launch of a new recognition: the Elizabeth Dowdeswell Award for Advancing Democracy Through Education. The award, dedicated to Ontario’s 29th Lieutenant Governor, highlights educators who foster civic engagement and strengthen democratic values in the classroom.
“These awards shine a light on people who are helping to make Ontario more equitable, accessible, creative and resilient,” said Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “Together, these recipients are building on the legacies of four inspiring lieutenant governors. I find the new award truly meaningful because it links the legacy of the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell with the dedication of outstanding educators who inspire young people to care about their communities and be actively engaged in civic life.”
Honouring Community Leadership
The 2025 awards recognized Ontarians across a range of fields:
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Lincoln M. Alexander Award, recognizing young leaders fighting racial discrimination: Katie Diru, Olantu Nini, Tenisha Keyana Noel
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Hilary M. Weston Scholarship, honouring graduate-level social work students advancing mental health research: Ashton McCormick-Kelly, Vaishnavi Yogendran
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James Bartleman Indigenous Youth Creative Writing Award, supporting Indigenous youth writers: Darnell Mekanak, Jasper Ziegler, Mikayla Denis-Servant, Grace Paradis, Mackenzie Buller
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David C. Onley Award for Leadership in Accessibility, recognizing champions of inclusion for people with disabilities: Yazmine Laroche, Meghan Hines, Samantha Fung
The recipients reflected a broad spectrum of Ontario’s communities — from emerging writers and students to seasoned accessibility advocates.
“It is a privilege to celebrate these recipients, whose leadership and commitment to our communities are helping build a stronger and united Ontario,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “I am especially pleased to see the introduction of the Elizabeth Dowdeswell Award for Advancing Democracy Through Education—an inspiring tribute to her enduring legacy that will guide future generations.”
A New Chapter in Democratic Engagement
Elizabeth Dowdeswell herself emphasized the importance of the new award. “Teachers play a critical role in helping us become the very best version of ourselves. Through inspiring young people to understand, to question and to become engaged in setting the ground rules for how we learn to live together in harmony, they strengthen democratic values and institutions,” she said. “In a time of profound challenge and change I am grateful that this award recognizes the ongoing work of democracy and building community.”
Other ministers echoed the importance of recognizing citizen leadership. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, praised the accessibility award recipients: “Their unwavering commitment to advancing inclusion and enhancing the lives of people with disabilities is truly commendable.” Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, noted that the award winners “reflect the very best of our province” and are “creating opportunities for generations to come.”
Voices of the Recipients
Several honourees spoke to the personal significance of their awards.
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Olantu Nini, Lincoln M. Alexander Award recipient: “Receiving this award reminds me that every step I take, no matter how small, is seen, valued and meaningful.”
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Grace Paradis, James Bartleman Indigenous Youth Creative Writing Award recipient: “I am so surprised and grateful… This is a wonderful opportunity that inspires me to continue pursuing my passion for storytelling.”
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Samantha Fung, David C. Onley Award recipient: “It proves that society cares about the wellbeing of people with disabilities, and that there is support.”
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Ashton McCormick-Kelly, Hilary M. Weston Scholarship recipient: “It validates the energy I have spent… and highlights the importance of furthering mental health services.”
Broader Recognition
The Legacy Awards are part of a wider recognition framework administered by the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. Each year, Ontario organizes more than 50 ceremonies honouring thousands of residents for their service to community and province.
The awards are adjudicated by independent selection committees drawn from across Ontario. Nomination deadlines vary, with most closing May 31, while the Hilary M. Weston Scholarship deadline falls on December 15.
As Edith Dumont presided over this year’s ceremony, joined by McGregor, Cho and Calandra, the event underscored the importance of honouring leadership at every level — from young changemakers to lifelong advocates.
By celebrating these 13 recipients, Ontario reinforced its message that community engagement, equity and accessibility are not just ideals but the foundation of the province’s strength.
