Jamaica-born Hamlin Washington Grange has been awarded the Order of Canada.
Grange who is the brother of Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, was recognized for his “pioneering work in diversity and inclusion” and as a “passionate change agent for social justice.” an active member of the Jamaican diaspora in Canada.
He was one of 99 new appointments to the Order of Canada announced by Governor General Mary Simon. He is a former track athlete who, for many years, held the Canadian record in the junior 400 meters hurdles
Hamlin Grange is the co-founder and president of Diversity, a consulting firm. He also trained as a journalist and has had a major career with CBC Television, serving as an editor and producer. He also co-hosted a radio news and current affairs show in Jamaica called “Good Evening Jamaica.” Grange works as a diversity and inclusion strategist and has chaired the Toronto Police Services Board. For 20 years, Grange has worked with a variety of clients in many sectors and is considered a trusted advisor. He is a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory, which measures and develops levels of intercultural awareness and sensitivity in individuals and teams.
Grange has also served in various capacities on numerous other boards, committees and councils in Canada. Among them are: the Responsible Gaming Council as chair of the board of directors; public member of the Consent and Capacity Board in Toronto, Ontario; and chair of the African-Caribbean Advisory Group of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Foundation.
The Order of Canada is among the highest honors awarded and is the equivalent of Jamaica’s National Honor, the Order of Jamaica. Since its creation in 1967—Canada’s centennial year—more than 7600 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. The contributions of these trailblazers are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country. They include scientists, musicians, artists, politicians, athletes, and business people.
