Despite historic challenges and systemic racism, there are numerous Black, Indigenous, and racialized Canadians that have paved the way and continue to inspire upcoming generations.
From advocating for social issues to making their marks and providing platforms for others in various fields like sports and the creative industry, Black role models are impacting young lives.
The Morning Show recently spoke to three Toronto high-school students who shared their Black heroes for Black History Month.
READ MORE: ‘I’ve felt discrimination’: Black leaders in the medical community call for change
Jaelan Malgie-Brown is a 16-year-old student who looks up to Charles Lightfoot Roman.
Roman was one of the first Black Canadians to graduate from McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine. As Malgie-Brown aspires to pursue medicine and dentistry after high-school, Roman stands as an amazing role model for Black youth like himself.
Trenyce Douglas, a 17-year-old student, says he looks up to Mary Ann Shadd Cary.
She devoted her time to educating youth and became the first Black female publisher in North America. She broke multiple barriers and has become the perfect example of Black excellence.
READ MORE: Edmonton artist created Google Doodle honouring Mary Ann Shadd Cary
Patrick Douglas Jr. is a 15-year-old student who looks up to Anderson Abbott, the first Black Canadian to be licensed as a doctor in 1861.
For Douglas, Abbott represents selflessness and he aspires to be like him as he strives to pursue a career in medicine.
Watch their full clips on their Black Canadian heroes in the video above.