Seven Georgian College alumni who are innovative powerhouses in their fields - from engineering to health care to skilled trades - have been nominated for Colleges Ontario's prestigious Premier's Awards.
The awards honour Ontario college alumni who have made outstanding contributions throughout the province and around the world. The winners will be announced at a gala Nov. 25.
Seven Georgian College alumni have been nominated for a 2024 Premier's Award.
"I'm filled with immense pride as our college has once again nominated seven outstanding graduates for Colleges Ontario's Premier's Awards. It's a great opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of graduates in their fields and communities," said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College. "These alumni exemplify Georgian's commitment to excellence and innovation, showcasing how quality education has empowered them to become leaders and changemakers."
The seven nominees are part of the 110,000-strong Georgian global alumni family:
Lisa Bertram (Civil Engineering Technology Municipal and Civil Engineering Technician programs, class of 1989 and 1990) has been nominated in the Science Engineering and Technology category. Bertram's 30-year career with Bertram Construction showcases her ascent from estimator to president, driving notable growth and diversification. She expanded the company's operations into mid-to-high-rise residential and larger industrial projects, substantially increasing annual revenue from $8 million to $50 million and doubling the workforce. She also formalized a profit-sharing program benefiting employees and has secured numerous industry awards.
Zein Dhanidina (Fundraising and Resource Development, class of 2006) has been nominated in the Community Services category. Her journey from immigrant to founder of Refugee Women's Network (RWN) underscores the power of education. Inspired by her family's experience, she established RWN in 2016 to empower refugee and immigrant women in Toronto and beyond. Through online programs and donated resources, RWN has flourished, reaching women worldwide and offering vital services in multiple languages.
Holly Martin (Personal Support Worker (PSW), class of 2014) has been nominated in the Health Sciences category. At 69 and showing no signs of slowing down, Martin has dedicated nearly a decade to her innovative business, Touch a Heart Homecare, which is certified by the Ontario Personal Support Worker Association. Martin left behind a successful telecom career to pursue PSW studies at Georgian and has since earned more than a dozen accolades and awards, including the 2024 Barrie Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Award for Healthcare Hero.
Jama Maxie (Social Service Worker, class of 2020) has been nominated in the Recent Graduate category. He is an Indigenous and Afro-Canadian man who overcame intergenerational trauma and addiction to become a role model and award-winning, sought-after motivational speaker. Since graduating, Maxie has worked in child welfare and addictions organizations. He is currently studying full time to complete his master's degree and PhD in clinical psychology Maxie's dedication extends to volunteering and leadership roles, drawing on his lived experiences to help shape policies for youth in foster care.
Andrew Ojamae (Automotive Marketing and Management, class of 2001) has been nominated in the Business category. When he became President and CEO of AutoIQ in 2019, he never thought the pandemic would be his company's most innovative period. During this time, Ojamae's team launched new strategies, businesses and acquisitions. Under Ojamae's leadership, AutoIQ grew same-store revenues by 28.5 per cent to $1.17 billion and grew before-tax earnings by 86.4 per cent.
Solomon King (Cabinetmaking Techniques, class of 2018) has been nominated in the Skilled Trades category. King is an esteemed Indigenous artist who honours his heritage through intricate wood and stone creations. His dedication to preserving Indigenous cultures earns him acclaim, with works displayed across prominent venues like Nathan Phillips Square and the University of Toronto. Committed to reconciliation, he crafted a monumental turtle sculpture commemorating residential school Survivors.
Markie Tuckett (Interior Decorating, class of 2013) has been nominated in the Creative Arts and Design category. The Métis woman embarked on her journey at age 25 to establish Timber + Plumb Inc. in a new region, with no capital, contacts or clients. She propelled the company's revenue to six figures within three years while repaying a $45,000 business loan. Launching the Stay Golden Grant during the pandemic, Tuckett distributed $2,500 of her own money to fledgling small businesses across two years, offering mentoring alongside grants.
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