Queens County Senator receives award

Mayann E. Francis, Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia, paid tribute to Senator Oliver and presented him the award’s figurative statue in front of a crowd of more than 100 people.

Senator Oliver, a long-time resident of Pleasant River, Queens Co., has been an active businessman and entrepreneur for decades. His list of business endeavours includes real estate, fisheries, construction equipment and exporting. He is also President of Pleasant River Farms Limited, a Christmas tree farm.

Cassandra Dorrington, Chair of the Board of Directors of the BBI, said, “Senator Oliver couldn’t be more deserving of this recognition. He is a tireless advocate for human rights and equality for African Canadians, reflected in his community and public speaking engagements and his overall commitment to the prosperity of all Canadians, in particular the black business sector.”

As barrister, teacher, entrepreneur, advocate and statesman, Senator Oliver has served the people of Nova Scotia and Canada with honour, distinction and achievement for more than 40 years.

He has been a member of the Senate of Canada since September 1990 where he has been defending the rights and interests of minority groups, Nova Scotians and Canadians at large. He has taken deep interest in the causes of Diversity and Pluralism. Senator Oliver speaks to students, government officials, departments and organizations across Canada and around the world on ways to foster a culture of inclusion and to embrace a diverse society.

Senator Oliver is deeply honoured to accept this singular distinction. He said, “To be honoured by the Black Business Initiative means a great deal to me.”

The Black Business Initiative is a province-wide business development initiative committed to fostering the growth of businesses owned by members of the Nova Scotia Black Community. Its mission is to positively influence the Nova Scotia business culture by promoting and assisting in the development of Nova Scotia Black-owned businesses.