Author Silver Donald Cameron and developer Wadih Fares have been named members to Canada’s highest honor.
Cameron is an author and columnist with deep roots on Cape Breton Island.He said this honor is a wonderful 75th birthday present.
Wadih Fares came to Halifax from war-torn Lebanon in his teens with almost no money. He’s now a developer whose projects include one of the newest landmarks in the city, The Trillium on South Park.
Fares has an entire wall of honors decorating his office but said being awarded the Order of Canada caught him off-guard.
“When I first learned about it I was stunned,” Fares said. “I was overwhelmed.”
Fares is also a strong voice in Halifax’s tightly-knit Lebanese community and was a key player in convincing Prime Minister Stephen Harper to designate Pier 21 a national museum.
He said this honor is a result of hard work from his employees, his wife of 20 years, his family and his community.
“I take this on their behalf because, definitely, you don’t get here by yourself. Self-made men, they don’t make it on their own,” Fares said.
Fares calls the honor, “A huge sign for all immigrants out there, all newcomers out there that this country truly is the country of opportunity, the country of equality.”
He said the honor is a lesson for all those who give back to their community.
“Contributing to your community doesn’t go unseen or unappreciated,” Fares said.
The Order of Canada presented at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in 2012.
The newest recipients were being honored for their achievements in politics, sports, journalism, the arts, and many other fields.
CBC news