By Frederick Halley

PRESIDENT of the Guyana Ex-Police Association of Canada (GEPAC) and Unifor national representative John O’Dell has been recognised for his community service at last Saturday’s 32nd annual African Canadian Achievement Awards (ACAA) ceremony, held at the Jane Mallett Theatre, inside the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Toronto.
O’Dell, who is also involved in leadership of community groups such as the Alliance of Guyanese Organisations, the Association of Black Law Enforcers and the Board and choir of the Church of the Nativity, was awarded the Excellence in Community Service for his work as co-chair of the Toronto Police Services’ Black Community-Police Liaison Committee.
Unifor is Canada’s largest private sector union, with more than 310,000 members across the country, working in every major sector of the Canadian economy.
O’Dell showered praises on his family who were present at the auspicious occasion, especially those whom he described as the women in his life. “I thank God for women in my life, who are my role models and my inspiration; specifically my mother, my aunt, my late grandmother, my second mothers and all women in general. I am grateful for lessons they taught me and continue to teach me.”

The Guyana-born O’Dell, whose mother was a member of the Guyana Police Force, expressed thanks to the selection committee of the ACAA for even considering his work in the community, “no matter how small to be vital enough to be brought to the forefront. I am thankful that I am blessed with a job that protects the rights of women and all workers alike. This is not to suggest that the men in my life aren’t equally as important but my passion seem to have been and perhaps will always be, the protection of the rights of women and children.”

O’Dell pointed out that he got into volunteerism as a direct result of an invitation from his aunt and his passion for looking after the rights of others. “I am thankful for the opportunity to help and for those lives I have the privilege to guide.”

He reminded the youths present that they should always remember, they were here for a purpose. “The road of life is filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, and most certainly, some disappointment, but you must be strong and determined and have perseverance and your purpose and dream will become a reality.”

O’Dell also urged the youngsters to develop a social conscience, invest their “ Whatever your path is in life, let no one obstruct your way. You have the ability, talent and responsibility to achieve.”

Pointing to the adults, O’Dell advised them to encourage volunteerism with their children and grandchildren. “Encourage dialogue with any young person you encounter. If you allow yourself to not be judgmental, you automatically become an authority for young people to turn to when they’re in need. You too can be a vehicle for change, if you are receptive to young people and their ideas. Teach them, mold them, care them.”

The African Canadian Achievement Awards has evolved into one of the most-anticipated and prestigious events in the African-Canadian community.
It celebrates the achievements, and pays tribute to the exemplary contributions of African Canadians to their community, and the wider Canadian society.
These celebrations have had the cumulative effect, over the 32-year history of the ACAA, of fostering a sense of pride and a spirit of dignity within the African Canadian community. The ACAA has also acted as a catalyst, inspiring many of our youth, and some adults, to pursue and attain success and excellence in their lives.