Viola Desmond Awards & Bursary Program

Toronto Metropolitan University’s Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Program promotes Black flourishing, shining a light on the phenomenal Black women and gender-diverse people whose labour, creativity, passion and skills are positively impacting the entire TMU community. Their contributions are ensuring that Viola's legacy thrives for generations to come.

Now in its 16th year, this annual program is led by the Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion (OVPECI). This year, OVPECI is partnering with the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, with contributions from campus partners serving on the Viola Desmond Awards Planning Committee.

Learn more about Viola Desmond.

Nominations are now closed

Thank you to all community members who submitted a nomination to honour Black women and gender-diverse people who are making a positive difference in the community.

Save the date for the 16th annual Viola Desmond Awards Ceremony

The next Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Ceremony will be held on November 6, 2024. Stay tuned for more details.

Six award recipients from the TMU community

Each year, six awards are given to Black women and gender-diverse people connected to the university including a university student, a faculty member, a staff member, an alumni, a local high school student and a community member. 

Student recipients also receive a $500 financial award. 

Eligibility

Nominees must self-identify as Black and as a woman or gender-diverse person. They must be an active leader in their community, with examples to showcase the positive difference they have made in areas such as equity, diversity, inclusion, human rights and social justice. 

Review the full awards criteria and nomination process.

Organizing committee

The 2024 Viola Desmond Awards and Bursary Program is led by the Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion (OVPECI) in partnership with the Lincoln Alexander School of Law with contributions from campus partners serving on the Viola Desmond Awards Planning Committee.

Questions?

Please contact the Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion (OVPECI) at violadesmond@torontomu.ca.