Halifax Chamber of Commerce "Person of the Year" 2004
Member of the Order of Canada
Former Provincal Cabinet Minister
Enviromental Leader
Wayne Adams: community leader, environmentalist, human rights proponent, journalist, broadcaster, politician, pioneer and volunteer. Wayne is a life-spirit, a self-made man who has melded his busy work world with service to his community and his fellow citizens. Wayne Adams is a leader and a role model, not only for his people, but for all peoples.
Wayne has been recognized over the years for his work. Most recently he was made a Member of the Order of Canada, received an Honourary Doctorate from Saint Mary’s University and was named The Halifax Chamber of Commerce “Person of the Year” for 2004.
A native of Halifax, Wayne became the first black person in the history of Nova Scotia to be elected to its Legislative assembly, and subsequently the first and only black Cabinet Minister to serve the province.
It is his environmental legacy for which Wayne Adams is perhaps best known As environment minister in the provincial government of the early 1990s, Adams introduced Canada’s most comprehensive solid-waste strategy. Nova Scotia is now seen as a leader in waste management practices across Canada.
Wayne is a sought after speaker on how to mobilize communities and exercise political action to achieve productive results on environmental and social issues. His down to earth, humorous style and inspirational messages make him popular with audiences of all ages.
Business opportunities and challenges in environmental industries are topic areas Wayne is comfortable addressing with his background and experience.
Black history is another of Wayne ’s passions. He also speaks of his own roots and growing up in Halifax and turning challenges into opportunities. An inspiring message for all.
Wayne’s approach to life is simple. “You’re supposed to live a spirit-led life; I do and I enjoy life,” he says. “If you don’t have some fun, you’ll be sick and miserable, may even die early. Life is about trying, not crying. It’s all people-driven—and divinely blessed. Be positive, be realistic, quit sweating the small stuff, believe in God and just live in the world of common sense.”
