Now in its 18th year, the Bryden Alumni Awards celebrate outstanding York University alumni who have achieved the extraordinary and made remarkable contributions in their fields, communities and to the University. Jamil Jivani (BA ’10) will be one of four leaders celebrated on Nov. 20 at a celebration at Arcadian Court and .

“As we welcome a new group of recipients for this year’s Bryden Alumni Awards, we recognize the achievements and possibilities for those with a York University education,” said Jeff O’Hagan, vice-president Advancement. “Our 2018 honourees are being recognized for their extensive achievements, leadership, philanthropic support and meaningful engagement with the alumni community locally and globally. As they continually inspire us, we look forward to honouring them at the awards this fall.”

One to Watch: An alumnus or alumna who has made a significant impact in their field and/or community within 15 years of a bachelor’s degree or 10 years of a professional/ graduate degree.

Jamil Jivani

Jamil Jivani (BA ’10) is a Canadian lawyer, law professor and author. He is focused on creating economic opportunities for families, empowering youth and improving public safety.

Jivani has held research and teaching appointments at Osgoode Hall Law School and Yale Law School. He was also the director of law and policy at Our Ohio Renewal, a nonprofit organization founded at Ohio State University to develop solutions to the issues raised in J.D. Vance’s bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy. He previously practiced law at the international business law firm Torys LLP.

Jivani’s community leadership includes founding the Citizen Empowerment Project and serving as vice chair of the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto. He has also volunteered with youth organizations in Kenya, Egypt and Belgium.

His work in disadvantaged neighborhoods in North America and Europe has led him to appear on numerous national and international television and radio programs. His writing has been published by The Guardian, Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, National Post and Australia’s Quillette magazine.

A graduate of Humber College, York University and Yale Law School, he was named the 2015 young lawyer of the year by the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and received the International Development and Relief Foundation’s 2017 youth leadership award.

His first book Why Young Men: Rage, Race and the Crisis of Identity was published by HarperCollins in April 2018 and listed for the Toronto Book Awards.

Sponsored by premiere sponsor TD Insurance, the awards are named after the late Bruce Bryden (BA ’64), founder of the York University Alumni Association and the first alumni chair of the York University Board of Governors. A passionate member of the community for nearly 30 years, Bryden’s inspiring commitment, vision and contributions helped shape York into the vibrant and innovative university it is today.

Visit Bryden Alumni Awards website for more information about the Bryden Awards, to learn more about the recipients, or to purchase tickets (note that space is limited for this event).