Eight persons living in Toronto, Canada, have been presented with Bob Marley Day awards for their work in inspiring young people.

The presentations took place on Thursday, February 5, at Toronto City Hall. The mayor's proclamation, declaring February 6 Bob Marley Day, was read by Jamaican-born city councillor Michael Thompson, who described the reggae superstar as a "son of the world".

education is key

Organiser of the event, Jamaican-born lawyer Courtney Betty, said the theme for this year's awards was 'Education is Key' and each awardee's work reflected the theme.

Awards were presented to Canadian Idol judge, Farley Flex, who has implemented several educational projects with Canada's native peoples; radio talk-show host, Spider Jones, who speaks to high-school students on the importance of staying in school; Femi Doyle Marshall, a university student credited for his attempt to eliminate racial discrimination in Ontario; university professor, Dr Sheldon Taylor, who teaches African-Canadian studies; teacher and filmmaker, James Flaherty, who produces videos on issues about young people.

The other awardees were: Gerry Connelly, director of education at the Toronto District School Board; Karl Subban, principal of Brookview Middle School; and P. K. Subban, a 19-year-old hockey player who has been drafted into the National Hockey League.

Jamaica's consul general to Toronto, Anne-Marie Bonner, said that the celebrations were a wonderful way to highlight the achievements of the awardees.

"Bob Marley would have been pleased that his birthday and legacy were being celebrated in this way," she said.