Georgian College graduate recognized on provincial scale

Georgian College graduate and Indigenous artist Solomon King being honoured with Premier's Award at ceremony in Toronto, Ont. on Mon., Nov. 24, 2025.

A Georgian College graduate has been awarded with a top honour being recognized on the provincial level.

Solomon King, an Indigenous artist who graduated in 2018 from the Cabinetmaking Techniques program, was honoured with a 2025 Premier’s Award for Cultural and Creative Achievement.

The award recognizes excellence in college graduates across the province, focusing on those making important contributions in their communities.

King is known for showcasing and sharing stories and perspectives of his Indigenous roots through his woodworking and stonemasonry art pieces. His art has been shown in high profile locations like Nathan Phillips Square, where he displayed a large turtle sculpture he made, paying tribute to residential school survivors and symbolizing truth, resilience, and reconciliation.

“I’m very honoured and humbled by the Premier’s Award and recognition. None of this would have happened without the support of my family and community,” said King. “This award gives weight and voice to the work we’re committed to creating, which is intertwining art and craft with cultural stories and ways of being.”

King has also trained many apprentices over the years and several of them have earned their Red Seal accreditation (a national endorsement for skilled trades), in turn, creating more Indigenous crafts and trades people.

Georgian College says it is committed to truth-telling, decolonization, and reconciliation, as well as striving to be a top college for Indigenous students.

“Solomon’s work exemplifies the power of creativity rooted in culture,” said Kevin Weaver, president and CEO of Georgian College. “His dedication to preserving and sharing Indigenous traditions through art and mentorship is not only inspiring but vital. We’re incredibly proud to have Solomon among our alumni.”

King was celebrated at an awards ceremony hosted by Colleges Ontario on Nov. 24 in Toronto.