Legendary singer and actress Jackie Richardson, C.M. will receive the fourth annual Jean Augustine Excellence Award, presented in partnership with the CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF) and the Caribbean Film Festival (CFF).
The Jean Augustine Excellence Award, created by the CTFF and CFF, recognizes an artist whose work has made an enduring contribution to Canadian cultural life while uplifting and inspiring generations through excellence, generosity and leadership. The award was created to celebrate the enduring legacy of The Honorable Dr. Jean Augustine, P.C., educator, advocate and the first Black woman elected as a Member of Parliament.
Previous recipients include the late Trinidadian saxophonist and bandleader Dr. Roy Francis Cape (2023); Grenadian-Canadian pianist, composer, arranger and producer Eddie Bullen (2024); and steelpan leader, educator and Pan Fantasy Steelband co-founder Wendy Jones (2025).
Founded by award-winning filmmaker and CEO of the CaribbeanTales Media Group Frances-Anne Solomon, The CaribbeanTales International Film Festival is an annual September celebration of established and emerging filmmakers of Caribbean and African heritage from across the global diaspora. 2026 will mark the 21st edition of the festival. Its sister organization, The Caribbean Film Festival, is a pioneering initiative advancing the Caribbean film industry and positioning the region as a vital centre for cinematic expression, connecting filmmakers across the Caribbean region.
With a career that has spanned over five decades and counting, Jackie Richardson’s artistry has transcended music, film, television and theatre. A celebrated actress and vocalist in the gospel, blues and jazz world, Richardson has won a Dora Award (2004) and a Canadian Screen Award (formerly the Gemini Awards) for her illuminating performances. In 2024, Richardson was made a Member of the Order of Canada for her artistic contributions.
“Jackie Richardson’s voice has touched the hearts of Canadians for generations,” said The Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine, P.C. in a statement. “She is an artist of extraordinary talent, but she has also used her gifts to encourage young people, strengthen community and remind us of the beauty and power of our shared cultural heritage. I am deeply honoured that she is receiving the Jean Augustine Excellence Award.”
“I am truly touched to receive an award bearing the name of the Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine,” said Jackie Richardson, C.M. “Dr. Augustine has spent her life opening doors, lifting others up and showing us what is possible when we lead with courage and purpose. I accept this honour with deep gratitude.”
The award will be presented at Screen Share: Honouring Our Legends, a signature event by CTFF and CFF which will celebrate the Honorable Dr. Jean Augustine’s 89th birthday as well as a special screening of the film Queen of Soca, celebrating women’s voices in Caribbean music. The event will take place on Saturday, September 12 at Harbourfront Centre’s Terminal Theatre. Tickets are available here.