A Champion of Black Excellence and Community Empowerment
Image Credit, Chief Jim Ogunnoiki
Black History 365 provides a vital opportunity to honor individuals whose tireless work uplifts communities, preserves culture, and fosters progress. Chief Jim Ogunnoiki is one such visionary, whose decades of service have made an indelible impact on Manitoba’s Black and multicultural communities.
Born in Nigeria, he migrated to Canada on August 26, 1976, and pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Winnipeg, graduating in 1979 with a major in Philosophy and Sociology and a minor in Religious Studies. Later, he earned certifications in Personnel and Human Resource Management and Administrative Management, which laid the foundation for his leadership and mentorship initiatives.
A staunch advocate for equal opportunities, Ogunnoiki addressed workforce inequities by founding the Annual Job and Career Fair under the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba Inc. This initiative, running for over 20 years, has connected thousands of job seekers with opportunities, attracting representatives from all levels of government and the private sector. It remains a cornerstone of his legacy, offering guidance and resources to help youth and adults navigate their career paths.
His leadership extended across numerous organizations. He served five terms as President of the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba, led the Okin International Club of Canada for over five decades, and held key roles with the Nigerian Association of Manitoba, including Treasurer. As a founding member of Black Entrepreneur Day in 2004, he championed economic empowerment within the Black community.
Ogunnoiki’s contributions to cultural preservation are equally noteworthy. He played a pivotal role in establishing Yoruba language schools at Kelvin High School in 1997, serving as director for eight years. Additionally, he volunteered with the African/Caribbean Folklorama Pavilion for more than 25 years and was a delegate for the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba to the Folk Arts Council of Manitoba.
Throughout his career, Ogunnoiki has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002, the Manitoba Lieutenant Governor’s Make a Difference Community Award in 2004, and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022. His coronation as Chief Aare Bobajiro of Sawonjo Land in 2017 further underscores his cultural and community leadership.
His commitment to mentorship has transformed lives. Over eight years, he guided university and college students, helping them overcome challenges and excel in their academic and professional pursuits. His collaboration with the Department of Education and Training led to bursary programs that supported 40 students, combining financial aid with community engagement projects.
The scope of his influence also extends to national and international platforms. In 2011, he was invited by the Canadian Forces to attend the West Coast Influencer Event, highlighting his role as a community leader. His volunteerism and advocacy have consistently set a standard for service, earning him accolades such as the Manitoba Black Community Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and the Distinguished Award from the Nigerian Association of Manitoba in 2004.
As Black History 365 encourages year-round recognition of contributions, Ogunnoiki’s work stands as a beacon of cultural pride, resilience, and service. His life exemplifies how one person’s dedication can transform communities, preserve heritage, and inspire future generations.
The legacy of Chief Jim Ogunnoiki is a testament to the power of leadership rooted in compassion, equity, and an unyielding commitment to progress. He leaves behind a roadmap for others to follow, proving that service to community is a lifelong pursuit worth celebrating.
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