President Holland Meets Jean Augustine, Canada’s First Black Woman Elected to Parliament, to Discuss Empowering Young Women

A Historic Meeting of Two Influential Leaders

President Jeffrey R. Holland, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, met with Jean Augustine in Toronto on March 24. Augustine made history in 1993 as the first Black woman elected to Canada’s Parliament. Their discussion focused on empowering young women facing life’s challenges.

“We wanted to hear Dr. Augustine. We listened to her,” President Holland said. He praised her lifelong dedication to education and youth development. The meeting highlighted their shared commitment to helping young women succeed.

Augustine expressed gratitude for the Church’s long-standing support of her work. “My deep appreciation for the friendship and the support,” she said. Their conversation reinforced the importance of mentorship and opportunity.

A Legacy of Breaking Barriers and Building Futures

Augustine’s political career broke racial and gender barriers in Canada. For 23 years in Parliament, she championed education and equality. Today, her Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment helps girls ages 7 to 17 thrive.

President Holland compared her efforts to the Church’s self-reliance programs. “We believe in those young women,” he said. Both leaders emphasized teaching skills and confidence to overcome adversity.

“Right now, we’re in challenging times,” Augustine said. “We need good people who can encourage the next generation.” Her center provides mentorship, education, and hope to underprivileged girls.

Strengthening Communities Through Partnership

During their meeting, President Holland announced continued financial support for Augustine’s center. “She was thrilled with that gesture, as were we,” he said. The funding will help expand programs for young women in need.

The Church and Augustine’s organization share a common mission—lifting others. “We want to bless people in time and in eternity,” President Holland said. Their partnership reflects a belief in education, service, and spiritual growth.

Augustine sees collaboration as key to progress. “All of us together can move our nation forward,” she said. With shared values, these leaders inspire change for future generations.

Dr. Jean Augustine is an activist and educator who participated in organizations to strengthen minority rights in the city of Toronto 🇨🇦. She was the first Afro-descendant woman elected as a Member of Parliament and the first Equity Commissioner for the Government of Ontario.… pic.twitter.com/O1tvpBm3OK

— OAS (@OAS_official) March 27, 2025