Recognizing Black Brilliance at OCH 

Gabriel is inspired by Michaëlle Jean, whose journey as a Haitian-born immigrant and Canada’s Governor General represents what is possible when resilience, intelligence, and service come together. For him, her leadership went beyond symbolism — she used her platform to elevate underrepresented voices and create meaningful opportunities for others. 

Deeply connected to his Haitian heritage, Gabriel carries forward values rooted in resilience, community, and perseverance. These principles guide how he approaches leadership today, reminding him that success is collective and that lifting others as you rise is essential. 

Gabriel has observed meaningful progress in the recognition of Black excellence in Canada, including greater representation across leadership, public service, and other sectors. At OCH, he points to the presence of Black leadership as a powerful example of how far progress has come. 

Still, he emphasizes that recognition must translate into sustained momentum. True progress requires accountability, long-term investment, and clear pathways that ensure real influence — not just visibility. 

For Gabriel, Black brilliance means showing up with purpose and integrity, building inclusive systems, and leaving a lasting impact through service, empathy, and courage. 

Ubah’s reflections are deeply rooted in community, belonging, and care. While she is inspired by figures such as Michaëlle Jean, Hodan Nalayeh, and Viola Desmond, her understanding of Black excellence is equally shaped by the everyday resilience she witnesses within Black communities. 

As a Somali woman and refugee, Ubah’s cultural heritage — grounded in faith, unity, and collective responsibility — influences how she moves through the world and what she brings to her work. She believes leadership does not require distancing oneself from the community; instead, it should deepen connection and shared responsibility. 

Her work allows her to live out these values by giving back to her community, supporting partnerships, and helping ensure that the most vulnerable are not left behind. This sense of purpose gives her hope in what can be achieved when people genuinely care for one another. 

Ubah defines Black brilliance through lived examples: parents working extra hours to help their children feel at home in Canada, community members showing up consistently for one another, and individuals contributing with dignity and care regardless of title or role. For her, brilliance is found in the creation of safe, nurturing spaces where everyone can thrive. 

Rather than naming a single individual, Safia draws inspiration from the many Black Canadians who quietly create impact through resilience, service, and leadership in their communities. Their collective legacy reminds her that progress is often built through consistency, integrity, and showing up — even when recognition is limited. 

As a Somali woman, Safia’s cultural heritage plays a central role in how she navigates both work and life. Values of community, responsibility, and perseverance shape how she approaches complex systems, grounding her in empathy while maintaining accountability. These lived experiences influence how she supports others, makes thoughtful decisions, and remains steady during challenges. 

Safia often reflects on a Somali proverb she grew up hearing: 

“Nin walba waa tiir, haddii uu istaagana gurigu wuu taagnaadaa.” (“Everyone is a pillar. When each person stands firm, the whole house stands.”) 

For her, this saying captures the belief that strong communities are built when everyone contributes and embraces responsibility for one another. 

She has seen meaningful progress in how Black excellence is recognized in Canada, particularly through increased visibility and more open conversations around equity and representation. At OCH, seeing Black employees in leadership roles reinforces a sense of belonging and trust. 

To Safia, Black brilliance shows up in everyday problem-solving, adaptability, and the ability to lead with empathy in complex environments — always with a focus on uplifting others and strengthening the whole. 

Keon finds inspiration in the strength and courage of those who challenged injustice long before recognition followed. One of those figures is Viola Desmond, whose refusal to accept racial segregation in Nova Scotia continues to resonate with him today. Her legacy represents unwavering integrity in the face of adversity — a quality Keon strives to embody in his own life and work. 

Beyond public figures, Keon credits his parents as the most influential forces in shaping his path. Through them, he learned that discipline is essential for success and longevity. Growing up, he was taught that action speaks louder than words — that commitment means following through, even when it is difficult. 

At the same time, his cultural heritage taught him that mistakes are part of growth. Discipline also means extending grace to yourself, learning from setbacks, and moving forward with intention. For Keon, this balance defines how he approaches both work and life. 

When reflecting on progress in Canada, Keon acknowledges that Black excellence is more visible today, with Caribbean and Afro cultures deeply influencing Canadian society. Still, he believes there is more work to be done to move beyond progress toward lasting, systemic change. 

To Keon, Black brilliance is about authenticity — showing up as yourself every day, challenging systemic barriers, and demonstrating that you are more than what others may assume.