Jonathan Belgrave (BAcc ’10) is driven to make a difference wherever he can — whether on campus or across Niagara.

Brock’s Office of Human Rights and Equity (HRE) has named him EDI Changemaker of the Month for his commitment to building community connections that advance equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). EDI Changemakers are Brock students, staff or faculty who have helped advance EDI on campus.

“It’s important to me to contribute because the Brock community extends beyond our campus borders,” says Belgrave, Marketing Manager, Professional and Continuing Studies. “The efforts made here extend into all parts of Niagara and it is my belief that everyone should make efforts to improve their community when it’s within their power to do so.”

Over the past two years, Belgrave has been working with Pride Niagara, where he also volunteers outside of work, to fill a gap he saw in networking and learning opportunities for local Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (2SLGBTQ+) professionals and allies.

With the support of his colleagues at Brock, he helped develop the Speaking with Pride event, which took place on campus in June.

“Jonathan’s efforts to build and strengthen community-based relationships with partners like Pride Niagara have a positive impact on Brock’s campus community,” said Alana Lowe, HRE’s Manager of EDI Education and Outreach. “These connections significantly enhance our ability to make a meaningful difference in the region.”

Belgrave says he was surprised to be named an EDI Changemaker of the Month.

“I do not consider myself to be an expert in the topic of EDI, but it’s welcoming and invigorating to know that by working on Speaking with Pride enough of an impact is being made to receive this recognition,” he says.

His efforts were also recognized with the Ed Eldred Unity Award at the 10th annual Niagara Unity Awards in May.

EDI Changemaker criteria and nomination information is available on the HRE website.