Last month, Hamlin Grange, C.M., of Courtice, Ontario, stood among over 60 distinguished individuals invested in the Order of Canada at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
Receiving the honor at the Member level, Grange joined a prestigious group recognized for their outstanding contributions to the nation.
The Order of Canada celebrates people who have enriched the country through extraordinary and varied contributions, with appointments made at three levels: Companion, Officer, and Member. Grange’s appointment reflects his significant impact on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within Canadian society.
Governor General Mary May Simon lauded Grange’s work during the ceremony:
“Hamlin Grange is a passionate change agent for social justice. Devoted to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, he founded the diversity consultancy DiversiPro and co-founded the non-profit organization Innoversity. A former journalist and beloved mentor, he is praised for his efforts to increase the representation and participation of racialized groups in society and media. As a volunteer with the YMCA of Greater Toronto, the Toronto Police Services Board, and the Responsible Gambling Council, he continues to strive towards a more inclusive Canada.”
Grange’s sister, Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Entertainment, Sport, and Gender, shared her pride in his achievements with a statement on social media: “Heartfelt congratulations to my brother, @HamlinGrange, on being appointed to the Order of Canada for his pioneering work in diversity and inclusion. Your dedication to social justice and commitment to positive change inspire us all. Proud to see your contributions recognized at such a prestigious level.”
From Kingston to Canada
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Grange’s journey to success began with his family’s decision to seek a better life in Canada. At age 10, he joined his mother in Toronto, where he attended Central Technical High School and excelled both academically and athletically. A track and field standout, Grange was a member of Canada’s National Junior Track and Field Team and a Canadian junior record-holder for the 400M hurdles.
His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to the University of Colorado, where he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with minors in African American Studies and Research Methodologies. Grange began his journalism career at Denver’s Rocky Mountain News before returning to Canada, where he established himself as a distinguished journalist at CBC Television, Global Television, and The Toronto Star.
Grange also made an impact as the host of current affairs programs like Workweek on CBC Newsworld, More to the Story on CBC, and Good Evening Jamaica, a news program broadcast internationally.
Today, Grange channels his passion for social justice through DiversiPro, the diversity and inclusion consultancy he co-founded. His work spans corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors, guiding organizations in understanding and embracing cultural diversity.
Hamlin Grange also co-founded Innoversity and the Innoversity Creative Summit, which brings together international delegates to discuss innovative approaches to serving diverse communities.
Grange’s commitment to community extends beyond his professional endeavors. He has served on influential boards, including the Toronto Police Services Board, the Royal Ontario Museum Board of Trustees, and the YMCA of Greater Toronto. Currently, he is a member of Ontario’s Consent and Capacity Board, balancing the rights of vulnerable individuals with public safety.
Over his illustrious career, Grange has earned numerous accolades, including the YMCA Peace Medallion, the B’nai Brith Human Rights Award for Journalism, and the African Canadian Achievement Award.
Hamlin Grange’s appointment to the Order of Canada cements his legacy as a transformative leader in fostering inclusion and justice. His journey from Kingston to Canada is a testament to resilience and the profound contributions of immigrants to the fabric of Canadian society.
