Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a remarkable woman and citizen from my riding of Vaughan—Woodbridge, Shernett Martin, executive director of the Vaughan African Canadian Association.
Since arriving from Jamaica in 1975, Shernett has served as an important fixture in the black community. For over 20 years, her outstanding contributions in advocacy on a variety of social issues have played a critical role in developing stronger, more understanding communities.
As a professional teacher, Shernett's innovative style and exceptional leadership skills have had a positive impact on countless lives in the classroom, in workshops around Ontario and Quebec, and while teaching English to refugees and immigrants.
Most recently, Shernett's story was selected to be featured in the upcoming book 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women, which serves as a testament to the invaluable contributions Shernett and like-minded women have made to Canadian society.
I invite you, Mr. Speaker, and all my colleagues to recognize Shernett Martin and her extraordinary achievements.