Our History – Canada's Walk of Fame

Celebrating Canadian Achievement

From a humble evening gala to a nationally recognized non-profit organization, Canada’s Walk of Fame has evolved into a distinctive tribute to exceptional achievement and a powerful symbol of Canadian excellence. Our organization is dedicated to recognizing extraordinary contributions across six Pillars of Achievement. Follow the journey as we celebrate the visionaries who founded this iconic program and the remarkable Canadians who have shaped our collective identity and inspired generations.

1998

The Vision Takes Shape

Canada’s Walk of Fame is established by visionaries Bill Ballard, Dusty Cohl, and Peter Soumalias, in partnership with Dianne Schwalm and Gary Slaight, creating Canada’s first permanent tribute to excellence.

2003

Reaching Every Canadian Home

The induction ceremony is broadcast nationally for the first time, dramatically expanding its audience and cultural significance while bringing Canadian achievements into living rooms across the country.

2012

Charitable Foundation Established

Canada’s Walk of Fame achieves official charitable status (Registration Number 889896924RR0001), with governance transitioning to a distinguished national Board of Directors representing diverse Canadian perspectives.

2013

Investing in Musical Talent

The Canada’s Walk of Fame RBC Emerging Musician Program (now also in partnership with Stingray) launches, providing a national platform to discover, support, and celebrate emerging Canadian artists. Since its inception, the program has helped propel the careers of musicians between 15 and 35 who continue to shape Canada’s cultural landscape.

2018

Two Decades of Excellence

The 20th Anniversary celebration marks a milestone of honouring Canadian greatness, resilience, and innovation while setting the stage for future growth and impact.

2022

Amplifying New Voices in Film

The Canada’s Walk of Fame Future Storytellers program debuts with founding partner NBCUniversal (Now presented by NBCUniversal, Cineplex, and Seeing Red). The initiative empowers the next generation of filmmakers by pairing student directors with Canada’s Walk of Fame Inductees and Honourees, creating original short films that highlight impactful Canadian journeys.

2023

25th Anniversary Milestone

A quarter-century of celebrating Canadian excellence is marked with special programming and expanded national initiatives.

Now

Continuing the Tradition

More than 230 exceptional Canadians across six Pillars of Achievement have been immortalized with Stars in Toronto’s Entertainment District at King and John Streets, creating a permanent monument to Canadian excellence.

Canada’s Walk of Fame has transcended its origins as a single celebratory event to become a year-round national platform that not only commemorates past achievements but actively nurtures future excellence through mentorship, scholarships, and community programs from coast to coast to coast.