Ontario’s Premier’s Award Winners 2024

By Valeriia Brusianina

Lynne Innes is breaking barriers as the first Indigenous woman to lead a major health authority. As a member of Moose Cree First Nation, Lynne has made it her mission to bring high-quality health care to First Nations communities. She helped to bring the first CAT scan machine and first portable MRI to the James and Hudson Bay Coast along with cardiologists and optometrists to provide care. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she organized 200 vaccines clinics in remote Indigenous communities. She also teaches courses to medical professionals in remote areas and is the Board Director for the Ontario Hospital Association. 

While Lynne Innes revolutionises healthcare, an alumnus of Humber Polytechnic, George Stroumboulopoulos is redefining Canada’s media and cultural landscape. Known for his charismatic presence on iconic shows like The Hour and The Strombo Show, George’s talent for meaningful conversations has made him a household name. But his impact goes beyond radio and broadcasting. As a UN World Food Programme ambassador, he advocates for global food security, and through CO2 Evolve, he fights against climate change. From making meaningful content to all Canadians to addressing global issues, George’s work highlights the potential of the media to inspire change. 

This year, both Lynne Innes and George Stroumboulopoulos became the recipients of The Premier’s Award for their groundbreaking achievements. The Premier’s Awards, which began in 1992, recognize Ontario college graduates who drive social and economic progress. Alongside Lynne Innes and George Stroumboulopoulos, the 2024 recipients include 

• Emily Chung from Centennial College for Skilled Trades
• Andrés Coimbra Castedo from Niagara College for Recent Graduate
• Fiona Coughlin from Conestoga College for Community Services
• JP Gladu from Sault College for Business
• Eric Kukucka from George Brown College for Science, Technology and Engineering 

 Each recipient’s story reflects the profound impact of Ontario’s colleges in nurturing innovation and leadership across industries. Their achievements not only strengthen communities across the province but also make a lasting impact across the country.