Patrice Barnes, Madiba Award Recipient 2022

Every year, CEAG’s Durham Black History Month Committee recognizes a leader of African ancestry in Durham Region whose struggle embodies Nelson Mandela’s values, visions, and commitment to overcome barriers in his long fight for freedom and equality. The 2022 Madiba Award, sponsored by Elexicon Energy, was presented to Patrice Barnes at the 15th Annual Durham Black History Month Celebration in February. Keep reading to learn more about Patrice and her amazing contributions to the community.

People who know her will tell you that Patrice Barnes makes a difference. Her impactful work and dedication to her community is derived from her own journey, marked by opportunities, obstacles and impressive milestones.

Patrice was born in Jamaica and immigrated to Canada when she was just 18. She attended Centennial and Seneca Colleges as she prepared her foundation to enter professional life. For more than a decade Patrice worked in event management for both profit and for not for profit organizations, racking up professional successes, awards, and media mentions. Today, she’s proud to represent the Ajax community on the Durham District School Board as a Public-School Trustee – a position she has held for nearly a decade since she was first elected in 2014. During her time on the Board, she has served in several roles including Vice Chair of the Board, Chair of Education Finance Committee, and the Special Education Committee and today she serves as the Co-Chair of the Diversity Committee.

Passionate about inclusive education and improving learning outcomes for students and families who experience marginalization, she has participated in the DDSB poverty strategy and continues to champion high expectations for all students. Patrice has been integral in creating and advocating for innovative programs like the Cypher Program for Black Boys, the Empower Her conference for Black Girls, the first Getting Ready for Kindergarten program for black students.

Patrice also takes this important work to the province, where she serves as a Director with the Ontario Public School Board Association (OPSBA). She represents OPSBA on equity issues, she was a part of the advisory group that wrote the first Ontario Black Youth action plan (2017), and as a Member of the Ontario Education Partnership roundtable was a contributor to the paper “Education post Covid”.

Patrice also takes this important work to the province, where she serves as a Director with the Ontario Public School Board Association (OPSBA). She represents OPSBA on equity issues, she was a part of the advisory group that wrote the first Ontario Black Youth action plan (2017), and as a Member of the Ontario Education Partnership roundtable was a contributor to the paper “Education post Covid”.

In addition to all the time she spends making our schools safe and equitable for everyone, Patrice is also a compelling, knowledgeable speaker who is often called upon to share her experiences at special events and conferences.