A Moment of Honor

When I received the King Charles III Coronation Medal, I was deeply honored. It’s the kind of recognition that makes you pause—not just to reflect on the journey, but to think seriously about what comes next. Awards like these are never just personal achievements; they are public acknowledgments of service. And with that acknowledgment comes responsibility.

At that moment, standing among so many people who have devoted their lives to the community, I didn’t feel finished. I felt challenged. Because when someone places a medal around your neck, they are also handing you a mirror—and asking, “What will you do with the trust this symbolizes?”

More Than a Symbol

Awards are beautiful, yes. They represent appreciation and encouragement. But I believe their true value lies in what they ask of us after the applause fades.

To me, the King Charles III Coronation Medal is not just a mark of past contributions—it’s a call to deeper service. It means that what I’ve done so far has made a difference. But more importantly, it signals that people are watching and hoping I will continue, with even greater intention.

In leadership, especially in community work, recognition shouldn’t lead to rest. It should lead to renewed action.

Leadership That Listens

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through years of public service is that community leadership isn’t about telling people what they need—it’s about asking them. It’s about listening deeply, respecting lived experiences, and stepping aside when necessary to let others lead.

Awards can put you on a pedestal, but effective leadership stays grounded. It’s in the day-to-day: mentoring a young person, helping a family find resources, advocating for better systems, or sitting with someone in a tough season of life. These quiet moments don’t make headlines—but they change lives.

Recognition should amplify our responsibility to stay present and engaged, even when no one is watching.

Earning It, Every Day

Sometimes people assume that once you receive a major award, you’ve “made it.” But I see it differently. Honors like the Coronation Medal are markers on the journey—not the destination.

I still wake up each day and ask: How can I be useful? What needs to be done? Who is being overlooked? These questions help keep me focused on the heart of the work.

Yes, I’ve spent decades involved in philanthropy, business, youth development, and cross-cultural engagement. But no amount of past experience exempts me from the work that still lies ahead. If anything, recognition increases my responsibility to do better, to reach further, and to bring others along with me.

Recognition As a Platform

One powerful thing an award does is open doors—doors to new partnerships, funding opportunities, and broader platforms. I take that seriously. Not for my benefit, but for the communities and causes I represent.

Recognition creates visibility, and visibility can be used to spotlight others who are doing meaningful work. I use my platform to lift emerging leaders, to bring attention to grassroots projects, and to connect like-minded changemakers. When we use awards not to elevate ourselves but to elevate others, we multiply the impact.

What Comes Next

So, what comes after the medal?

For me, it’s continued investment in youth. Through programs like the Canadian Youth Financial Association (CYFA), I remain committed to preparing the next generation of leaders—especially those from underserved backgrounds. Financial literacy, career development, civic engagement—these are not luxuries. They are necessities for young people navigating a complex world.

It also means deepening international partnerships. My work with organizations like UNICEF has taught me the importance of global collaboration. We must keep building bridges across borders, because many of the issues we face—education access, poverty, gender inequality—require shared solutions.

And finally, what comes next is mentorship. I believe one of the most valuable things seasoned leaders can do is pour into others. Not with ego or control, but with encouragement and wisdom. I mentor not because I have all the answers, but because I believe in the potential of others to find their own.

A Responsibility, Not a Trophy

There’s something humbling about being recognized for your work. But I’ve learned to see every award not as a trophy, but as a reminder. A reminder that service is ongoing. That leadership is earned again and again. That trust must be honored through action.

In many ways, awards are less about what you’ve done and more about what you’re trusted to do next.

So I carry this honor with gratitude—and with a deep commitment to continue serving, building, and giving. I wear the medal not just with pride, but with purpose.

Turning Recognition Into Purpose

Recognition is powerful—but what we do with it is even more important.

If you’ve ever been recognized for your efforts, big or small, I invite you to ask yourself: What does this mean for the people I serve? How can I use this moment to do more?

And if you haven’t yet received public recognition, please remember this: your impact is not measured by medals. It’s measured by the lives you touch, the consistency of your care, and the integrity of your leadership.

As for me, the journey continues—with new lessons, new challenges, and always, new reasons to serve.