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In an era where diverse voices are more crucial than ever in shaping the public narrative, Black Canadian journalists continue to break barriers and elevate the stories that often go unheard. These journalists are not only informing the nation but also transforming the media industry through their fearless storytelling, sharp analysis and a deep commitment to representation.
Here are five of the most influential Black Canadian journalists making their mark:
- Desmond Cole
A powerful voice in Canadian journalism, Desmond Cole is best known for his unflinching commentary on race, policing and social justice. His award-winning 2020 book, The Skin We’re In, built on his work as a columnist and activist, sparked national debate about systemic racism in Canada. Cole’s journalism is rooted in advocacy, drawing attention to the Black experience in ways that have shifted public discourse and policy.
- Andree Lau
Andree Lau, having both Chinese and Jamaican heritage, made history as the first woman of colour to become editor-in-chief of HuffPost Canada. While she has since moved to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) News, Lau has long championed equity and inclusion in media leadership. Behind the scenes and in the newsroom, she continues to foster space for diverse stories and perspectives, mentoring young journalists of colour and pushing for institutional change.
- Kayla Grey
Breaking ground in sports journalism, Kayla Grey is the first Black woman to host a flagship sports highlight show in Canada. As an anchor for The Sports Network’s (TSN) SportsCentre, and host of The Shift With Kayla Grey, she uses her platform to challenge stereotypes and speak openly about race, gender and mental health in the sports world. Grey’s presence has helped redefine what it means to be a sportscaster in Canada.
- Garvia Bailey
A veteran storyteller, Garvia Bailey has brought Black Canadian history and culture to the forefront through her work in radio, podcasting and broadcasting. Formerly of the CBC, she co-founded Media Girlfriends, an organization dedicated to amplifying diverse voices in media. Bailey’s work often highlights community, art and identity, offering a necessary counter-narrative to mainstream portrayals of Black life.
- Eternity Martis
Eternity Martis is an award-winning journalist and the bestselling author of They Said This Would Be Fun, a memoir about her experience as a Black student in Canadian academia. Her investigative and opinion writing on gender-based violence, anti-Black racism and mental health has appeared in major outlets like Maclean’s, The Walrus and Vice. Martis is also a journalism educator, shaping the next generation of inclusive storytellers.
These journalists are not just reporting the news; they are reshaping how news is gathered, told and understood. Their work reflects the growing demand for authentic, nuanced coverage of Black communities and the issues that affect them.
As the media industry continues to evolve, these five journalists remind us that excellence, integrity and advocacy can go hand in hand. Their stories are vital threads in the fabric of Canadian journalism.
