Building Inspiration: Ontario Science Centre architect and eco-tourism leader honoured at 2013 LG Innovators' Ball

Canadian innovators to be celebrated at annual fundraising event

TORONTO, Sept. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The Ontario Science Centre's signature annual fundraiser, the LG Innovators' Ball, will continue to build on its impressive track record of raising funds to support its community access initiatives on November 14, 2013. The gala fundraiser, which raised $2.5 million net in its first seven years, broadens the Centre's reach to people of all ages who could otherwise not afford to visit.

"The LG Innovators' Ball is one of the most important events of the year, as it celebrates innovation in Canada and raises funds to help foster our next generation of innovators," said Chris Tambakis, CEO, North America, Adgar Investments & Development Inc., and Rebecca Leigh, Co-Chairs of the 2013 LG Innovators' Ball. "Most importantly, this event provides critical funding for the Science Centre's community access programs, including Adopt-a-Class - a vital initiative that supports Science Centre visits and ensures that all students in our community have the same opportunities for learning and discovery, regardless of financial means."

The Adopt-a-Class program makes science engagement more accessible to children from identified schools in underserved Toronto neighbourhoods. Working with social service agencies and community groups, the Ontario Science Centre's community access programs, including Adopt A Class, offer subsidized and complimentary Science Centre admission, family memberships, and summer camp opportunities to over 100,000 people every year.

2013 marks the second year for presentation of the associated Ontario Science Centre Innovator Awards, recognizing Canadian leaders in business, science and the broader community who have been trailblazers in their fields.

"Inspired by The AstraZeneca Human Edge, our newest permanent exhibition opening in December, this year's LG Innovators' Ball is themed around what it means to be human," says Lesley Lewis, CEO. "Both of our honourees demonstrate what can be achieved by individuals who are risk-takers and who have the determination to push their own limits to succeed beyond expectations."

The 2013 Innovator Awards will be presented to:

• Raymond Moriyama
  Since founding Raymond Moriyama, Architect and Planner, in 1958, Raymond Moriyama has applied his humanistic vision to numerous landmark buildings.  In addition to the Ontario Science Centre, his most notable projects include the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, the Toronto Reference Library and the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto, along with the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.  Raymond's many honours include a Gold Medal from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, a Lifetime Design Achievement Award from the Ontario Association of Architects and honorary degrees from eleven universities. He has received the Order of Ontario and the Order of the Rising Sun (Japan), and is a Companion of the Order of Canada.
  

• Bruce Poon Tip
  A true entrepreneur and innovator, Bruce Poon Tip founded G Adventures in 1990 to deliver authentic experiences for travellers who craved adventures beyond all-inclusive resorts.  Under his leadership, G Adventures has carved a reputation as a pioneering world leader in adventure travel with an unyielding dedication to sustainable tourism and community development initiatives.  In 2003, Bruce founded the Planeterra Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their environment, and provide supportive solutions to local problems.  Passionate about sustainability and philanthropy, Bruce is an authority on social entrepreneurship, corporate social and environmental responsibility, and leading with service and innovation.
  
  

About the Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre delights, informs and challenges the communities we serve, enriching people's lives and understanding through engagement with science of local, national and global relevance. Since 1969, the Ontario Science Centre has welcomed over 47 million visitors, with an interactive approach that was the model for science centres around the world. It is the public centre for innovative thinking and provocative dialogue in science and technology, aiming to inspire a lifelong journey of curiosity, discovery and action to create a better future for the planet. The Ontario Science Centre is an agency of the Government of Ontario. Please visit us at Ontariosciencecentre.ca.  www.Facebook.com/OntarioScienceCentre  Twitter: @OntScienceCtr. YouTube: www.YouTube.com/user/OntarioScienceCentre.

About LG Electronics Canada
The LG brand was established in 1995. The company is a global leader in electronics, information and communications products, with more than 117 operations around the world, and annual worldwide revenues of more than US $49 billion. LG Canada is comprised of five business units - Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Home Entertainment, Business Solutions and Commercial Air Conditioning. The company has offices in Toronto and Vancouver. LG Canada is focused on delivering award-winning products known for blending style and technology. These innovative products include cell phones, flat screen TVs, laptop computers and home appliances. For more information please visit www.LG.com.

 

SOURCE: Ontario Science Centre

Anna Relyea
Director, Strategic Communications
Ontario Science Centre
416-696-3273
[email protected]

Tricia Soltys
Director, Media Services
Edelman Canada
416-509-0955
[email protected]