“Surround yourself with good people. Work hard and challenge yourself to big goals.”
The London Police Service was joined by members of the community for the 11th Annual Lewis Coray Trailblazer Awards Evening. The event, a night in celebration of Black History Month, aimed to recognize outstanding youth from African, Caribbean and Black Communities in London.
2020 Olympic Champion Damian Warner of London virtual appearance at 2022 Lewis Coray Trailblazer Awards [Image: captured via ZOOM]
“It’s important to have people who are in these communities or people who have lived in these communities to be strong role models and to lead in a way that can help kids realize that there is greatness beyond what they know,” says Warner. “I appreciate guys like Sergeant Lewis Coray for being one of those role models.”
Retired Sgt. Lewis “Bud” Coray served for over 30 years, joining the force in 1951 as the first Black officer hired by the London Police Service. Coray is recognized as a ‘trailblazer’ for Black Canadian communities in paving the way for the future generations of people of colour.
Steve Williams, Chief of London Police, adds to Warners statement that “we at the London Police Service are incredibly proud of you and your accomplishments.”
The ‘Trailblazer Awards’ are presented to London youth who submit a winning video or essay outlining the importance of Black History Month and what it means to them. The 2022 nominees included 17-year-old Jessica Gyamfi, 16-year-old Sharon Zembwe and award recipient 16-year-old Rebecca Lufungulo.
We’d like to give a special shout out to our 2022 Trailblazer Award recipients, including Rebecca Lufungulo, Jessica Gyamfi, and Sharon Zembwe. 🏆 We wish you success and happiness in your future endeavours. Congratulations! https://t.co/56cLAUOGbf #LdnOnt #BlackHistoryMonth pic.twitter.com/TsdJ9cIxsA
— London Police Service ON (@lpsmediaoffice) February 17, 2022
“Being nominated for the Lewis Coray Award for Youth is an honour in and of itself,” says Williams. “Each of you should be very proud of the leadership you have demonstrated, and the contributions you have made to our community.”
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