The city of Mississauga came alive as entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers, and community leaders converged for the highly anticipated Global Leadership and Entrepreneurs Summit, hosted by the Get Elevated Foundation from May 31 to June 2, 2024. The three-day event, held at the Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport West, celebrated visionary leadership and the growing impact of immigrant communities in Canada.

Founded and led by Kennedy Iden, the Get Elevated Foundation has spent more than a decade championing the growth and integration of newcomers. Iden said the summit reflects the foundation’s mission to empower immigrants to thrive socially, economically, and professionally.

The opening night kicked off with an energetic networking session, setting the tone for a weekend of inspiration and transformation. On Saturday and Sunday, 12 renowned international speakers delivered masterclasses on entrepreneurship, leadership, transformation, and personal development—equipping participants with strategies to navigate global challenges and opportunities.

The summit climaxed with a colourful Dinner and Awards Gala, where outstanding achievers were celebrated for their service, leadership, and contributions to their communities both in Canada and around the world.

The Get Elevated Foundation, based in Brampton, Ontario, continues to expand its global footprint. Its programs are designed to support immigrants not only in Canada but also in the United Kingdom, United States, New Zealand, Australia, and several African countries including Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Swaziland, Libya, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles.

Iden reiterated the organization’s vision of building a new generation of empowered, integrated, and community-minded immigrant leaders. “These awards are a testament to individuals who go above and beyond to make life better for others,” he said.

2024 Get Elevated Award Winners

This year’s awardees represent excellence in governance, humanitarian work, cultural preservation, media, ministry, and leadership development. They include:

Mayor Patrick Brown, City of Brampton – Lifetime Leadership Award

Abi Adekiton – Emerging Leader’s Award

Chief Godwin Iwelomen – Esan Cultural Ambassador’s Award

Naa Okaakor Notse – Ethnic Diversity Award

Queen Mary Fosu – Super Support Appreciation Award

Richard M. Kiernicki – Transformational Leadership Award

Bishop Carlton Facey – 21st Century Exemplary Leadership Award

Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Out, First Lady of Cross River State – Women Impact Award

Sen. Rev. Prince Bassey Out, Governor of Cross River State – Dynamic and Good Governance Award

Pastor (Dr.) Nathaniel Odin – Pastor and Community Leadership Award

June Smith – Community Engagement Award

Dr. Wycliffe Baird – Humanitarian Global Award

Rev. Nana Amoakohene – Pastoral Excellence Award

Dr. Winston Larose – Visionary Leadership and Social Change Award

Ngozi Ugoh – Media Achievement Leadership Award

Mr. Muhammed Ahmed Ennin – Promoting Cultural and Multiculturalism Award

Shannon Green – Emerging Global Leadership Award

Dr. Sam Dede – Nollywood Lifetime Achievement Award

Most recipients were present to receive their honours at the gala, where a group photograph and a special moment of Mayor Patrick Brown’s award presentation highlighted the evening.

For media inquiries, the foundation provided contact information for Kennedy Iden at +14376621115 or kenafrocaribe@gmail.com.