2024 Nova Scotia Human Rights Award Recipients

Five individuals and one group were recognized with Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards at an event held on December 10 in Halifax.

• A recording of the event live-streamed from Paul O'Regan Hall at the Halifax Central Library is available here.

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission presents the awards annually on or around International Human Rights Day (December 10) to acknowledge the courageous work of Nova Scotians who advance human rights in the province.

“Human rights advancements are often achieved through the grassroots efforts of individuals and community organizations such as the award recipients we recognized today,” said Joseph Fraser, Director and CEO, Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. “They demonstrate the potential each of us hold to disrupt the status quo and influence positive change.”

Youth awards were presented to:

• Jemma Bowers, Sydney Mines, in recognition of her work creating supportive and inclusive communities for youth, educating others and championing awareness and understanding of human rights.
• Caelin Lloyd, Halifax, in recognition of his work as a mentor, advocate and leader fostering understanding, inclusion and protection of the rights of youth who are blind or living with sight loss.

Laura MacDonald, Halifax, received the individual award in recognition of her lifelong leadership, resilience and advocacy for the rights of seniors and persons with disabilities.

Jude Clyke, Truro, received an award named in honour of the late Burnley Allan (Rocky) Jones in recognition of his leadership and advocacy to foster a supportive community for African Nova Scotian and Black youth and adults, through his volunteerism in sport, culture, and in pursuit of access to justice.

Rosalie Francis, Indian Brook, was presented the Wel-lukwen Award in recognition of her leadership in the protection and advancement of Mi’kmaq rights as an academic, researcher and advisor.

Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association received the group/organization award in recognition of the organization’s work advancing the rights of those experiencing homelessness.

More About 2024 Award Recipients

Jemma Bowers (Youth Award)

Jemma Bowers is a 16-year-old student at Memorial Composite High and already an inspiring leader and advocate.

Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Jemma defied expectations, excelling academically with a 90% average while actively engaging in numerous volunteer and extracurricular activities. While the target of racism herself Jemma remains committed to promoting empathy and understanding.

Jemma has organized initiatives for Indigenous and Black History Months, tutored at-risk youth, and advocated for international students’ inclusion. She also volunteers at the Elizabeth Fry Society and is working on mental health support initiatives. Jemma’s passion, resilience, and dedication to social change make her a remarkable community leader.

Caelin Lloyd (Youth Award)

Caelin Lloyd is a dedicated advocate whose impact is being felt both locally and across Canada. He is a champion for equity and social inclusion for youth living with sight loss through his work with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) including as a mentor with the Learning Academy and the SCORE Scholars program.

His leadership in the Nova Scotia Secondary School Students' Association has advanced numerous accessibility initiatives.

In 2022, Caelin founded a grassroots group to address declining services for blind students in Atlantic Canada, leading efforts to secure critical support.

Laura MacDonald (Individual Award)

Laura MacDonald received this year’s Individual Award in recognition of her lifelong advocacy, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements.

Living with cerebral palsy and quadriplegia, Laura defied significant physical and social challenges, earning two university degrees and becoming the first person with her level of disability to graduate from Cape Breton University.

At 74, Laura courageously fought against age-based exclusion when told she could no longer attend Camp Tidnish. Her persistent advocacy led to the creation of a specialized camp for seniors with disabilities, ensuring that her victory extended to others as well. Laura’s unwavering determination continues to inspire positive change.

Jude Clyke (Dr. Burnley Allan "Rocky Jones Award)

Jude Clyke is a lifelong resident of Truro and a respected leader and advocate for the African Nova Scotian community.

He is a dedicated volunteer and mentor who has coached basketball across all age groups and skill levels, inspiring youth through his guidance.

As a founding member of Community Strong, he fosters youth engagement and promotes intergenerational connections within the local community.

Jude’s contributions to the community include creating a Men's Wellness Group and founding the Truro ANS Justice Institute, which bridges gaps between the community and the justice system.

Jude’s unwavering commitment to community-building, advocacy, and social justice make him a deserving recipient of the Dr. Burnley Allan “Rocky” Jones Award.

Rosalie Francis (Wel-lukwen Award)

Rosalie Francis is a distinguished advocate for Indigenous and Mi'kmaq Treaty Rights, whose extensive career in human rights research, education, and advocacy has had a profound impact on her community.

Among her many accomplishments, Rosalie has worked with the Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq to advance the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

Throughout her career, Rosalie has empowered Mi'kmaq leadership with crucial legal expertise on self-determination, Free, Prior, and Informed Consent, and environmental justice.

Her work has contributed to numerous justice initiatives, negotiations, and reconciliation efforts with both Mi'kmaq communities and governments.

Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association (Group/Organization Award)

As a relatively new organization, the Cumberland Housing and Homelessness Association has made a significant impact in addressing housing and food insecurity in Amherst and Cumberland County.

In the past 18 months, they have successfully fundraised, secured grants, and constructed a new complex offering emergency shelter and supportive housing.

Their collaborative approach includes partnerships with municipal services, addictions and mental health support, the YMCA, and other local organizations to provide comprehensive outreach and services.

The Association’s dedication to inclusivity, care, and community support ensures that no one is turned away - making them a vital resource in the region.