Two Oshawa students are among the 2026 recipients of Ontario’s Lincoln M. Alexander Award, recognizing young leaders who work to fight racial discrimination.
Jahvaun Green-Chapman and Ebiehiremen Rejoice Okonowele each received an Oshawa anti-racism award in the student category during the province’s annual Lieutenant Governors’ Legacy Awards ceremony.
Local students recognized for leadership
The province described Green-Chapman as a scholar, athlete, volunteer and anti-racism advocate who turned personal adversity into positive action. His work includes leadership, mentorship, advocacy and community service intended to expand inclusion and opportunity.
Okonowele was recognized for advancing equity, inclusion and cultural awareness in her school and school board. Her leadership has included serving as president of a Black Student Association and as a student senator, with initiatives focused on celebrating diversity and amplifying student voices.
Both Oshawa recipients were named in the student category. A third award went to Toronto community-category recipient Kimora Lee Harris-Taylor.
Award includes $5,000
The Lincoln M. Alexander Award is presented annually to young people who demonstrate leadership in eliminating racial discrimination. Each recipient receives $5,000 and a personalized certificate.
The award is named for Lincoln Alexander, who became Canada’s first Black member of Parliament in 1968 and Ontario’s first Black lieutenant governor in 1985.
Ontario’s Legacy Awards also include honours connected to mental-health research, Indigenous youth creative writing, accessibility leadership and democracy education. Fourteen recipients were recognized across five programs.
The ceremony was held at the Art Gallery of Ontario and presided over by Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont. Provincial ministers Raymond Cho and Paul Calandra also attended.
