A high-tech CEO who developed technology which has “transformed” air brake inspections is among four recipients of the inaugural Black Automotive Professional Awards.
The awards, launched by Accelerate Auto – a not-for-profit group aimed at boosting Black representation within Canada’s auto industry -- were announced at the Automotive News Canada Congress in Toronto Feb. 15.
Mark Donaldson, CEO of Mississauga, Ont.-based Quantuity Analytics, received the Emerging Leader Award.
“His IoT AI smart sensor has transformed air brake inspections, surpassing Ontario’s regulatory standards,” Accelerate Auto said in a statement.
Donaldson also was cited for “his commitment to community involvement, including mentoring BIPOC students and contributing to the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce.”
The awards “spotlight and celebrate outstanding individuals within the industry, by recognizing their exceptional contributions as Black professionals,” according to Accelerate Auto.
Dwain Samuels, director of sales, data licensing at Canadian Black Book (CBB), received the Leadership Excellence Award.
“His impact extends across the Canadian automobile industry, leading in used-vehicle market evaluation,” Accelerate Auto said. “Dwain’s continuous excellence is evident through his weekly market analysis and recent Harvard Business Publishing Corporate learning certification, making him a true leader par excellence.”
Canadian Black Book President Yolanda Biswah received the Women’s Leadership Award and was praised as “a trailblazer in fostering leadership and championing diversity in the automotive industry.”
Named a “Notable Champion of Diversity” by Automotive News Canada in 2022, Biswah “is an active volunteer for Accelerate Auto, spearheading CBB’s support.” She also has hosted international students annually, volunteered with organizations The Boys and Girls Club, and mentored Black youth through Accelerate Auto’s Mentorship Program.
Shannon Miller, project lead, strategic partnerships at the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI,) is the recipient of the Young Professional Award. Miller “stands out as a strategic force in the automotive industry,” said Accelerate Auto. “From her former role as a program officer at the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing, she has led impactful initiatives, fostering student development and professional upskilling in mobility innovation.”
Miller was cited for leading OCI’s critical minerals talent strategy and the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network’s regional training centres.
