Denise Siele receives the King Charles lll Coronation medal from Ontario’s Lt Governor


Thursday 1 May 2025

I’m honoured and humbled to have received the King Charles III Coronation Medal, presented by the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, on March 28 at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in Ottawa.

This moment is more than a medal—it’s a symbol of the power of service, and community leadership.

My parents, Lila Siele and Swami Gyankirti taught me the value of resilience, generosity, and above all, faith in the strength of community. Their example continues to guide me in every space I enter—from grassroots initiatives to national platforms. Sharing this recognition with my mother just days after receiving it was a deeply meaningful reminder of the journey behind the work.

As a proud hashtag#Kenyadian, (Kenyan-born, Canadian made) I carry dual legacies that fuel my commitment to equity, public service, and representation. This medal is not just a personal honour—it is a collective one, shared with my Ottawa community and everyone who believes in using voice and vision to create impact.

I am especially proud to serve as Chair of the Lincoln M. Alexander Awards Committee, honouring the legacy of Ontario’s first Black Lieutenant Governor and championing youth leadership rooted in equity and civic engagement. I remain committed to advancing inclusive policy and governance through my board service.

Thank you to my alma mater, Carleton University, for helping shape my understanding of purpose-driven leadership through communication, advocacy, and action.

Let us lead with integrity. Lead with intention. Lead with impact.