Scarborough Festival Founder Receives Canada Strong Medal

By Stephen Weir

Scarborough community leader Steven McKinnon is being recognized for years of service to one of Canada’s most diverse communities.

McKinnon has been named a Recipient-Designate of the Canada Strong Medal, an honour that recognizes Canadians whose leadership and commitment have helped strengthen communities and contribute to the nation’s social fabric.

The medal will be formally presented by Scarborough North Member of Parliament Shaun Chen during a community ceremony on June 18 at the Grand Cinnamon Banquet Hall and Convention Centre in Scarborough.

Beyond his volunteer and community service work, McKinnon is perhaps best known as the driving force behind the annual Scarborough Community Multicultural Festival, one of the largest free community celebrations in Toronto’s east end.

Held each August, the festival brings together thousands of residents for a weekend of multicultural entertainment, food, arts, cultural displays, and family activities. Founded to celebrate the rich diversity of Scarborough and foster community pride, the festival has become a popular summer tradition, showcasing the many cultures that call Scarborough home.