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Our Founder

Throughout her expansive career as an educator, politician, and social advocate, the Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine has been a staunch advocate for girls and women.
 
In 1993, Dr. Augustine made history as the first Black-Canadian woman to be elected to Parliament.  
Learn more about our esteemed founder below. 

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Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine

 
Teacher, Principal, Educator, Community Builder, Mother, & Grandmother
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Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine P.C., C.M., O.Ont., C.B.E. is the first African-Canadian woman to be elected to the House of Commons. She was elected in the riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore in 1993 and sat in Parliament until 2006. During this time, she served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Minister of State and Deputy Speaker.

In 2007, Dr. Jean Augustine was nominated by the Government of Ontario as Fairness Commissioner, a position created to advocate for Canadians with foreign credentials. Dr. Augustine retired from the position of Fairness Commissioner in March 2015.

Among Dr. Augustine’s many achievements and honours includes leading the motion that allowed for the placement of the Famous Five statue on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and the motion that created Black History Month in Canada.

Dr. Augustine has received honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from seven universities. She also has been recognised by having the following named in her honour:

  • Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment (Etobicoke-Lakeshore)

  • Jean Augustine Girls’ Leadership Academy (TDSB)

  • Jean Augustine Secondary School (Peel District School Board)

  • Jean Augustine Park (Etobicoke-Lakeshore)

  • The Jean Augustine Chair in Education (York University)

  • Jean Augustine Complex and Jean Augustine District Park (City of Vaughan)

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