January 30

Lois Hole built her career as a passionate gardener and business leader, founding Hole’s Greenhouses in Edmonton. She authored numerous best-selling books on gardening that sold millions of copies. Hole was a popular television personality, hosting segments on home and garden shows. In 2000, she became the 15th Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, using her office to promote literacy and horticulture. She was known affectionately as the 'Queen of Hugs' for her warm public engagements. Hole earned the Order of Canada for her community service. She continued to write and teach until her death in 2005. Her legacy lives on through scholarships and gardening awards bearing her name.

John Bird overcame homelessness in his youth to launch The Big Issue magazine in 1991, creating a social enterprise model that empowers people experiencing poverty to earn income. The publication expanded internationally, offering a dignified path out of homelessness. In recognition of his impact, he was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2000. Elevated to the peerage as Baron Bird in 2015, he has spoken in the House of Lords on social justice and poverty alleviation. Bird’s ventures, including Big Issue Invest, continue to innovate in social finance and entrepreneurship.