Officers

Heather Rankin, O.C.
Mabou, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Heather Rankin is a singer and songwriter, and esteemed member of the award-winning band The Rankin Family. Her solo albums and performances have inspired fans from coast to coast to coast. She is a revered icon of Cape Breton music and a generous mentor in her field.

Ryan Reynolds, O.C., O.B.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia and New York, New York, United States of America

Ryan Reynolds has captivated audiences worldwide, notably writing, producing and starring in the widely successful Deadpool films. Off-screen, he supports Canadian causes including Water First Education, Covenant House Vancouver and Sick Kids Foundation, and co-founded initiatives to increase opportunities for under-represented groups. His far-reaching philanthropy continues to strengthen communities nationwide.

Members

Deantha Rae Edmunds, C.M.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Deantha Edmunds is the first Inuk professional classical soprano in Canada. Recognized as one of our country’s most prolific emerging creators of performance works, she has been a tireless ambassador of the centuries-long traditions of Nunatsiavut musicians and an agent of reconciliation. Through her recordings and performances around the globe, she has empowered Indigenous voices and revealed their stories to the world.

Scott Oake, C.M., O.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Scott Oake is a dedicated advocate for addiction recovery. In memory of his late son, he co-founded the Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation and the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre, which serve marginalized populations across Canada. He is also a distinguished sports broadcaster for CBC Sports, Sportsnet and Hockey Night In Canada.

Kim Thúy Ly Thanh, C.M., C.Q.
Longueuil, Quebec

Kim Thúy is a Vietnamese-born novelist whose acclaimed literature traces the Vietnamese diaspora, highlighting the migrant experience and the learning of a new culture. She authored Ru (2009), adapted to film in 2023, as well as Mãn (2013), Vi (2016) and Em (2020), and her works have been published worldwide. She actively supports the Centre d’expertise en autisme SACCADE, where she strives to provide a better understanding of autism.