The award is named after Harry Jerome and organized by the Black Business and Professional Association.
[2] The award was launched in 1983 and is named after the Black olympian[3] and racial equity activist Harry Jerome.
[4] The award is "widely considered among the most prestigious honours in Canada's black communities".
[3] At the 35th award ceremony in 2017, 18 awardees were announced, including Andre De Grasse.
[6] The 41st awards occurred in 2023,[1] notable awardees included Andria Case, Lindell Wigginton and Ngozi Paul.