Jean Augustine, born on September 9, 1937 in St. George's, Grenada, immigrated to Canada in 1960 under the West Indian Domestic Scheme. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education from the University of Toronto. She worked as an elementary school principal in Toronto and played a key role in organizing the Caribana Festival in 1967.
Throughout her career, Augustine actively engaged in various organizations for education and social justice. She served with the National Black Coalition of Canada, the Urban Alliance on Race Relations, the boards of York University, The Hospital for Sick Children, the Donwood Institute, Harbourfront, and chaired the Metro Toronto Housing Authority. In 1987, she became the national president of the Congress of Black Women of Canada.
Jean Augustine's story exemplifies the power of hard work and dedication in the pursuit of social justice. Despite losing her father at a young age, she excelled academically with the support of her wise grandmother. After immigrating to Canada, she continued her education, eventually becoming a principal and a Supervisory Officer. As a single mother, she raised two daughters while actively participating in grassroots community efforts.
Recognized for her capabilities and work ethic, Augustine was sought after for her involvement in significant tasks, including the development of Canada's multiculturalism policy and advising on cabinet appointments. In 1988, she was appointed as the chair of the Metro Toronto Housing Authority. In 1993, she made history as the first African-Canadian woman elected to Canada's House of Commons, serving as the Member of Parliament for Etobicoke-Lakeshore for four consecutive terms until 2006 when she decided to pursue new challenges.