Black History Month: People Who Changed Our World
We celebrate Black activists, scholars, authors, leaders, community leaders, and artists who inspire us. King's community members talk of these people who have been powerful influences.
athletes
Kobe Bryant - NBA Star, Humanitarian
Drafted right out of Lower Merion High School at the age of 17, Bryant won five titles as one of the marquee players in the Los Angeles Lakers franchise. He was a member of the gold medal-winning U.S. men's basketball teams at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and the 2012 London Olympic Games. In 2015 Bryant wrote the poem "Dear Basketball," which served as the basis for a short film of the same name he narrated. The work won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. A vocal advocate for the homeless Bryant and his wife, Vanessa started the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation aimed to reduce the number of homeless in Los Angeles. Bryant, his daughter Gigi, and seven other passengers died in a helicopter crash in late January 2020.
Serena Williams - Tennis Player
Williams became the world's No. 1 player. She has won 23 major singles titles, the most by any man or woman in the Open Era. The Women's Tennis Association ranked her world No. 1 in singles on eight separate occasions between 2002 and 2017. She has competed at three Olympics and won four gold medals. Williams has pushed for equal pay for women in sports, including calling for equal pay for Black women. In 2007, she became the first woman to be paid the same as a man for winning Wimbledon. Williams has supported numerous charities aimed at empowering women and the marginalized.
aRTISTS/ADVOCATES
Saidat – Artist, Speaker, and Advocate
Saidat is a dynamic Nigerian-Canadian artist, speaker, and advocate known for her powerful work empowering youth and promoting cultural pride. Through her music, workshops, and public speaking engagements, Saidat uses her platform to encourage young people to embrace their identity, overcome challenges, and pursue their dreams. As a passionate advocate for mental health, diversity, and inclusion, she addresses issues affecting marginalized communities. Saidat's work extends beyond entertainment, as she actively collaborates with organizations to support social justice initiatives. Her dedication to uplifting others has made her a respected role model and a driving force in inspiring positive change.
Business People
Wes Hall - Canadian Businessman and Entrepreneur
The chairman and founder of WeShall Investments Inc. – a private equity firm with a diverse portfolio of companies supporting mostly BIPOC entrepreneurs – Wes comes from humble beginnings in rural Jamaica. He founded BlackNorth Initiative to help end systemic anti-Black racism in Canada. He has instructed Black Entrepreneurship & Leadership at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, a first-of-its-kind course in North America. Wes is the vice-chair of the Board of Governors at Huron University College, a member of the Capital Markets Modernization Taskforce, and sits on the board of directors for SickKids Foundation, TIFF, and Pathways to Education Canada. In 2021, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce awarded him the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce awarded him the Canadian Business Leader of 2022. He is currently on CBC's Dragon's Den.
Comedians
Steve Harvey – Comedian, TV Host, and Author
Steve Harvey is an iconic comedian, television host, and bestselling author who has become a household name through his career in entertainment. Best known for hosting The Steve Harvey Show and Family Feud, Harvey has used his platform to inspire and uplift communities, especially within the Black community. His motivational speeches and books, such as Act Like a Success and Think Like a Success, emphasize personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Harvey is also a philanthropist, founding the Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation to provide scholarships and mentorship programs for underserved youth. His legacy continues to impact countless individuals striving for success.
Community Leaders
Michelle Young – Community Leader and Educator
Michele Young is a passionate educator and community leader dedicated to empowering marginalized youth. As a mentor and advocate, she has worked tirelessly to provide resources and support to Black students, promoting educational equity and inclusion. Michele’s work extends beyond the classroom, where she collaborates with local organizations to create opportunities for youth in underrepresented communities. Her leadership in promoting social justice and educational reform has made a lasting impact. Michele is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within Black communities. She continues to inspire others through her commitment to fostering a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Scholars
Dr. Andrew B. Campbell (Dr. ABC) – Educator, Entrepreneur, and Community Leader
Dr. Andrew B. Campbell, known as Dr. ABC, is an Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream in Leadership for Racial Justice in Education in the Department of Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning (CTL) at the University of Toronto – Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE). He is an esteemed educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate committed to empowering Black youth and promoting educational excellence. As the founder of the ABCs of Education, Dr. Campbell has dedicated his career to developing programs that support academic achievement, leadership, and cultural pride. He is a sought-after speaker, using his platform to inspire and mentor the next generation of leaders. Dr. Campbell’s work in community development and youth advocacy has made a lasting impact, as he continues to advocate for equitable opportunities in education and social justice, fostering a brighter future for marginalized communities.
Jenelle Rouse, Ph.D of Applied Linguistics in Education
Dr. Rouse is the first Black, Deaf woman to graduate from Western University (2020). She is the founder of Multi-Lens Existence and the Co-Director of Just Keep Going Reel. As a researcher, workshop instructor, and educator, Jenelle brings her unique perspective as a proud Black, Deaf woman.
Singers
Rihanna – Singer, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist
Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who has redefined global pop culture. Known for her groundbreaking music career, she has earned multiple Grammy Awards and a place as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Beyond music, Rihanna has become a powerful force in fashion and beauty through her Fenty brand, promoting inclusivity and diversity. As a philanthropist, she founded the Clara Lionel Foundation, which focuses on global education, emergency response programs, and healthcare. Rihanna continues to use her platform to advocate for social justice, women’s rights, and economic empowerment, inspiring millions worldwide.
Writers
Maya Angelou - Poet - 1928-2014
Angelou was an American poet, singer, memoirist, and civil rights activist with a colourful and troubling past highlighted in her most famous autobiography, "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings." She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry, and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning over 50 years. Her works have been considered a defense and celebration of Black culture. The Office of EDID often uses Maya Angelou's famous quote as an example of their work: "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."
