Receiving the phone call from the Governor General’s office was a mind-blowing experience. When it came two years ago, I was in disbelief and at a loss for words. I was being appointed to the Order of Canada – our country’s highest civilian honour – for my work in diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice.

But nothing prepared me for actually being inducted into the Order this past December by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Governor General Mary Simon at Rideau Hall. This magnificent historic building has welcomed numerous heads of state over the many decades. It’s also where certain national honours are carried out, including the formal investiture of new members into the Order of Canada.

Wherever you stand in the mansion, you’re surrounded by precious Canadian paintings and furnishings. You get a feeling of awe as you pass large portraits of previous governor generals, scenes of Canadian life, and landscape paintings of our vast country, many created by famous Canadian artists, Indigenous and non-Indigenous.

Then comes the actual ceremony. One after another, the new members are introduced to the audience, before the governor general presents them with the insignia.

As I listened to what each member had achieved in their career and contributed to their country, I wondered what I had done to be in such illustrious company. As it turns out, everyone else I spoke with felt the same. We were thrilled to be in the Order of Canada, but still pinching ourselves at the realization.

All of us belonged to a group of outstanding Canadians – many of whom have made big sacrifices, some who had saved lives through their work and passion. The group included scientists, medical researchers, professionals, artists, leaders in business, sports, academia and technology, philanthropists, community builders, and leaders of change among others. And as I spoke with them, I heard the same humility, affirmation, and inspiration that I felt.

Governor General Mary Simon acknowledged the many ways in which recipients have contributed to tackling some of today’s most pressing challenges such as climate change, health, education, inclusion, and justice.

The Order of Canada’s motto is: Desiderantes meliorem patriam. “They desire a better country.” As the governor general noted: “The Order of Canada is a call to continue striving for greatness, and to inspire further positive change around you.” I felt a strong sense of hope – at a time when so much of the social and political discourse in Canada and elsewhere in the world has left too many people feeling hopeless.

I also saw a recognition of Canada’s Indigenous people, and the importance of creating a country – and a world – that is more equitable and inclusive for everyone. Governor General Mary Simon paid a fitting tribute to the late Senator Murray Sinclair, who led the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Canada’s residential school system that had damaged so many Indigenous families and communities.

The years ahead will be challenging, but being in that place, among those individuals has given me hope that we can find a path through the fog of uncertainty and intolerance.