June 11, 2025
George Brown College (GBC) welcomed Canadian and Caribbean leaders to its Waterfront campus for the opening plenary of the Canadian-Caribbean Leaders Dialogue, held from May 22 to June 1, 2025. The event brought together voices from education, business, public policy, and philanthropy to discuss global collaboration, leadership and inclusivity.
The engaging session, “Leading Through Uncertainty,” was moderated by GBC’s Dr. Krista Holmes, Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation, and examined how education systems, public policy, and industry can work together to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
The featured panelists included Dr. Mary Anne Chambers, Chancellor of the University of Guelph; Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University; Paul Trudel, Chief People Officer and Senior Vice-President of Marketing and Brand at EllisDon; Dr. Ray Williams, Chair and Co-Founder of the Black Opportunity Fund, and Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College. Their insights underscored the crucial need for inclusive, adaptable leadership across diverse sectors.
Building economic prosperity through inclusive collaboration
The Canadian-Caribbean Leaders Dialogue also reflects George Brown’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and Indigenization on an international scale. By creating space for open, cross-regional dialogue, the event supports efforts to address mutual challenges and drive local economic development in both Canadian and Caribbean communities.
“This Dialogue represents a meaningful step forward in strengthening the bridge between Canada and the Caribbean,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College. “Through education, research, and partnership, we are creating new opportunities for collaboration and shared prosperity that will benefit our students, institutions, and communities across both regions.”
The event highlights GBC’s position as a globally engaged, industry-connected institution that showcases its leadership in fostering impactful partnerships that unite diverse communities in pursuit of inclusive growth and innovation.
Source: George Brown College News
George Brown College commissioned a poem to commemorate the occasion. An excerpt is below.
We Are The Bridge (an excerpt)
TracyJ
We are the bridge
connecting sun-kissed islands and snow-filled streets
we are the difference
between what is
and what can be
we stand where it’s uncomfortable
we speak when silence would be easier
our mission is not simply to lead
but to lead with impact
being a leader is more than titles
It’s holding community in one hand
and vision in the next
It’s stepping forward
as sunlight breaks through heavy clouds
It’s not just about what we do
but who rises because of what we do
Read more about George Brown College’s commitment to the Caribbean.