Leonard Braithwaite: story of a pioneer

Leonard Braithwaite was one of the first Black graduates of U of T’s Rotman Commerce program, going on to make a profound impact on the landscape of Canadian law and politics. His journey, however, was far from straightforward.

Before starting his degree, Braithwaite sought multiple times to enlist in the army, with each attempt met with rejection due to the pervasive discriminatory attitudes prevalent during the era. His determination eventually led him to the Royal Canadian Air Force, where he became an engine mechanic and equipment worker in England.

After returning to Canada, Braithwaite enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce program at the University of Toronto, graduating in 1950. He went on to obtain an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1952 and graduated from Osgoode Law School in 1958.

Following his education, he opened his own law practice and became Ontario’s first Black Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP). Perhaps most notably, his career in politics was integral in repealing the Separate Schools Act. In 1965, just a year after his inauguration speech during which he spoke out against racial discrimination in Ontario schools, the last segregated school in Ontario closed.

Braithwaite’s influence also reached academic and community circles, evident in his Order of Canada membership in 1998 and the 2004 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Black Alumni Association at U of T . Both were awarded to him for his advocacy in promoting positive social and political change. In 2014, his enduring influence led to the first Afrocentric high school curriculum in Scarborough, taught by an all-Black faculty. Inspired by Braithwaite’s vision for educational equity, the program cultivates an inclusive learning environment that instills a sense of belonging and fosters academic achievement among students. Though he passed away on March 28, 2012, Braithwaite’s legacy continues to inspire current and future students and leaders.

Black Rotman Commerce (BRC), a student group created in 2020, has played a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity and raising awareness and visibility of underrepresented individuals. The group facilitates networking events, socials, and peer support opportunities. Most notably, BRC organizes their annual Black Career Conference. The conference provides opportunities for Black students, recent graduates and entrepreneurs to network with professionals, develop leadership skills, explore career paths, and secure internships, all within an inclusive and empowering environment.

Reflecting on Leonard Braithwaite’s achievements, Zimman Yousuf (BCom ‘23), a Rotman Commerce alumna and former President of BRC, explained, “People learn by example…this legacy in front of us allows us to look at this path, and identify who and what can support us, what to watch out for, and the lessons along the way.” Zimman’s sentiments highlight the importance of fostering supportive networks and mentorship within the Black community. “Since we’re such a tight-knit community, we often pay it forward to help the next generation. This domino-effect of mentorship will only help further the Black talent pool, inspiring Black youth to be the best that they can be.”

Today, recognized student groups like Black Rotman Commerce continue to offer support through various means, providing students with the opportunity to learn more about their community and establish a supportive network. “Black Rotman Commerce tries to empower students to overcome and thrive in society today,” says Iman Hussein (BCom ‘24), the current president of BRC.

However, there is still considerable work to be done and it will be interesting to see how organizations like BRC continue to serve as an incubator for Black talent. Drawing from Zimman’s experience, mentorship can play an important role.

“If more mentorship relations were provided from alumni and upper year to younger students, it would help many of them in terms of discovering what really piques their interest and how they can further develop their professional and personal networks”.

Leonard Braithwaite’s story of resilience and determination has paved a road of inspiration. Like Zimman, future generations are empowered to follow in his footsteps, rallying their community and finding opportunities through mentorship and organizations such as Black Rotman Commerce. Moving forward, continued focus on mentorship, community building, and addressing inequity is crucial for building a more equitable and successful future for all students.

The Leonard Braithwaite Africentric Program

By Sonia Singh | March 12, 2024