Georgian College graduate Solomon King honoured with Premier’s Award
Dec. 2, 2025
Georgian College graduate Solomon King (class of 2018) has been honoured with a 2025 Premier’s Award for Cultural and Creative Achievement. In addition, Georgian proudly nominated five other graduates whose accomplishments exemplify the innovation, leadership and community impact at the heart of a Georgian education.
The Premier’s Awards celebrate outstanding Ontario college graduates who are making significant contributions in their communities and beyond. King was officially recognized during a ceremony hosted by Colleges Ontario on Nov. 24 in Toronto.
A proud Indigenous artist and graduate of Georgian’s Cabinetmaking Techniques program, Solomon is known for his masterful integration of woodwork and stonemasonry that reflects and celebrates Indigenous heritage. His art has been showcased in prominent public spaces, including Nathan Phillips Square and the University of Toronto, bringing visibility to Indigenous stories and perspectives through traditional and contemporary design.
“I’m very honoured and humbled by the Premier’s Award and recognition. None of this would have happened without the support of my family and community,” said King. “This award gives weight and voice to the work we’re committed to creating, which is intertwining art and craft with cultural stories and ways of being.”
Among his most impactful works is a large-scale turtle sculpture in Nathan Phillips Square commemorating residential school survivors—an enduring symbol of truth, resilience and reconciliation. Through his business and artistic practice, Solomon has also trained numerous apprentices over the past 18 years, with several achieving Red Seal accreditation, contributing to a legacy of skilled trades and Indigenous craftsmanship.
“Solomon’s work exemplifies the power of creativity rooted in culture,” said Kevin Weaver, president and CEO of Georgian College. “His dedication to preserving and sharing Indigenous traditions through art and mentorship is not only inspiring but vital. We’re incredibly proud to have Solomon among our alumni.”
Georgian graduates are shaping communities, industries and the future. With more than 120,000 alumni around the world, their global achievements speak to the strength of a Georgian education and the power of applied learning. We’re incredibly proud to recognize all our 2025 nominees for their impact and leadership.