Wes Williams, known as Maestro Fresh Wes, is a trailblazer in Canadian hip-hop. The first hip-hop artist inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Wes also holds two Juno Awards with 15 nominations, including four nominations for Best Children’s Album. He made history as the first Black Canadian artist to achieve platinum status.
His book, Stick To Your Vision, is foundational in Nova Scotia’s school curriculum, and his children’s book is inspiring young readers nationwide. He also launched the Maestro Fresh Wes Scholarship in 2023 for Black youth pursuing skilled trades, with scholarships awarded in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
In 2024, Wes received the Governor General Lifetime Achievement Award for Performing Arts, a Lifetime Achievement Award from AfroGlobal Network, an Award of Commendation from Saint John’s City Hall, and received an honorary degree from StFX University.
In the new year, Wes will be commemorated with an official Canadian stamp with Canada Post, cementing his legacy as a national icon.