Concordian Kerwins Saint-Jean wins a King Charles III Coronation Medal

For Kerwins Saint-Jean, a student in Concordia’s Department of Applied Human Sciences, receiving a King Charles III Coronation Medal is a collective win.

“It is both humbling and affirming. I never set out on this journey expecting awards, but rather to create meaningful change within my community,” Saint-Jean says.

“This recognition isn’t just for me — it represents the efforts of those who have supported, inspired and worked alongside me. It’s a testament to the power of community-driven impact, and it motivates me to continue advocating for lasting change.”

The medal is awarded to those who have made a significant contribution to Canada, or to a particular province, region or community of Canada, or who have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to this country.

Saint-Jean is being celebrated for his commitment to promoting Black entrepreneurship and empowering Black communities through a variety of initiatives. His journey as an activist began in 2020 when he co-organized a Black Lives Matter protest in Sherbrooke, Quebec that gathered more than 3,000 participants.

“My activism is deeply rooted in my lived experiences as a Black man of Haitian descent. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the systemic barriers that marginalized communities face — whether in education, business or social inclusion,” Saint-Jean explains.

“That Black Lives Matter protest solidified my belief that collective action has the power to drive real change. Inspired by leaders like Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, I committed myself to building spaces where Black voices are heard, empowered and uplifted.”

‘You belong in every room you step into’

Since then, Saint-Jean has thrown himself into collaborating with several local organizations such as acte d’Amour!, Actions interculturelles, the Fédération des communautés culturelles de l'Estrie and Black Estrie. He has served as president of the Communauté Haïtienne de l’Estrie and is currently the coordinator of the Socio-Economic Summit for Black Youth Development. In 2024, Saint-Jean was also awarded the Young Nelson Mandela Award for his dedication to social justice, volunteer work and leadership.

“Community is everything to me. It is the foundation of identity, resilience and progress. I firmly believe that real change starts at the grassroots level,” Saint-Jean shares.

“Whether it’s through mentorship, business development or advocacy, we must create spaces where people feel supported and empowered. Social justice is best promoted through active engagement — listening to community needs, fostering leadership and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all.”

Through his time studying human relations with a concentration in community development, Saint-Jean has further tapped into his purpose as a dedicated community leader and activist.

“Concordia has played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership and activism. My studies provided me with the theoretical and practical tools to navigate and address systemic issues,” he says. “Beyond academics, my involvement with student groups and community projects has strengthened my ability to mobilize, collaborate and implement impactful programs.”

Moving forward, Kerwins aspires to continue to use his experience and skills to influence inclusive policies and drive systemic change within his community.

“My goal is to bridge the gap between grassroots initiatives and institutional decision-making, ensuring that Black and marginalized communities have a seat at the table,” Saint-Jean adds. “I also plan to further my education in public administration and leadership to strengthen my ability to create sustainable change.”

When it comes to young, Black entrepreneurs, Saint-Jean has one message: don’t wait for permission.

“You belong in every room you step into. Build, create and push forward even when the world tells you otherwise. Your success is not just for you — it paves the way for those who will come after.”

Find out more about Concordia’s Black Presence Hub.