The stage is set for this year’s Impact Awards, where nine exceptional individuals will be honored for their outstanding contributions. As the third annual presentation, this year’s event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, celebrating the best and brightest from diverse sectors. Below, we introduce this year’s awardees.

Health: Dr. Everton Gooden began his tenure as President and CEO of North York General Hospital (NYGH) on December 1, 2023. With extensive leadership experience, including roles as Chair of the Medical Advisory Committee and Division Chief of Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Gooden also serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine.

Entertainment: Larnell Lewis, a Toronto native, is a GRAMMY Award-winning musician, composer, producer, and educator. Known for his versatility and technical prowess, Larnell has become one of the most in-demand drummers globally. He is a key member of Snarky Puppy and has collaborated with renowned artists like Gregory Porter and Pat Metheny.

Education: Dr. Charmaine Dean, Vice-President, Research and International at the University of Waterloo, leads in research, innovation, and internationalization. With a focus on ethics, equity, and diversity, Dr. Dean has forged strategic partnerships across academia, industry, and government, ensuring Waterloo remains at the forefront of global academic innovation.

Business: Rayman Bedessee, of Bedessee Imports, has built a business that brings the flavors of the Caribbean to kitchens worldwide. With over 5,000 products, Bedessee Imports is a trusted name in households and retail stores across Canada, offering authentic Caribbean foods and more.

Community: Velma Morgan, Chair of Operation Black Vote Canada, is a dedicated advocate for marginalized communities. With over a decade of experience as a policymaker in Ontario, Velma has led efforts to increase political participation and representation for Black Canadians, driving meaningful change and advancing social justice.

Arts & Culture: David Chariandy, a celebrated Canadian author and academic, was born in Scarborough, Ontario, to Trinidadian parents of South Asian and African descent. His work explores themes of identity and the immigrant experience. David recently joined the University of Toronto as a Professor, contributing significantly to Canadian literature and cultural studies.

Activism: Nicholas Marcus Thompson is a tireless advocate for racial justice. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Nicholas overcame adversity to become a leading voice for marginalized communities in Canada. In 2020, he led a historic $2.5 billion class-action lawsuit against systemic discrimination in the federal public service, resulting in significant changes.

Carnival Arts: Tommy Crichlow, a master of the steelpan, has been a cultural ambassador for Trinidad & Tobago since Expo 67. Founder of the Pan Masters band, Tommy has taken the steelpan to many parts of the world and been a stalwart in the Toronto steelpan community for over 30 years. In 1998, Tommy started a steel orchestra in France; he taught them how to make pans as well. He continues his lifelong dedication to Carnival arts.

Leadership: Chris Campbell, President of the Carpenters’ Union Local 27 in Toronto, has promoted diversity and inclusion within the construction industry. With 35 years of union membership, Chris has played a key role in recruiting young people into the trades and leading philanthropic construction projects locally and internationally.

As these outstanding individuals prepare to be honored at the Impact Awards, their stories of dedication, leadership, and achievement serve as an inspiration to the community and beyond. The 2024 Impact Awards will undoubtedly be a celebration of excellence, highlighting the extraordinary contributions of these deserving recipients.