Meet our 2024 winner of the Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize

The Royal Society of Canada (RSC) has announced the 2024 winners of the Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize. The RSC established the Prize in honour of Justice Rosalie Silberman Abella, a changemaker celebrated for her visionary intellectual contributions and commitment to building equality and equity across Canadian society and beyond.

Winning the Rosalie Silberman Abella Prize is an immense honor that deeply affirms the dedication and passion I've poured into this work. It not only recognizes my efforts but reinforces the powerful need for equity in all its forms, especially within the legal sphere. This award fuels my drive to keep pushing for justice and inspires me to continue advocating for those who need it most.

Semhar has earned numerous awards and held various leadership roles. Abraha has made impactful contributions to addressing and resolving social and human rights issues faced by Black and minority individuals. She founded the Violet King Engaged Scholar Award, expanded the African Studies program, and established sustainable OERs. Additionally, Abraha was instrumental in coordinating the inaugural Black celebration to honour the outstanding Black students and address the systemic issues.