Suzanne Rochon-Burnett facts for kids

Suzanne Rochon-Burnett (March 10, 1935 – March 4, 2006) was a very important Canadian business woman. She was a member of the Métis people, who are a unique Indigenous group in Canada.

Who Was Suzanne Rochon-Burnett?

Suzanne Rochon-Burnett was born in Sainte-Adèle, Quebec. She made history by becoming the first Indigenous person in Canada to own and run her own private radio station. This station was called SPIRIT 91.7 (now CIXL-FM) and was located in Welland, Ontario.

In 1965, she married Gordon W. Burnett. They had a daughter named Michèle-Élise.

Making a Difference in Media

Suzanne Rochon-Burnett was passionate about communication and helping others. She worked in media around the world for many years.

Sharing French Music

In the late 1970s, she helped share French music from Quebec and France. Her show, Chanson à la française, was broadcast on 21 radio stations across Ontario. Songwriters loved her unique style when she interviewed them in English.

Supporting Indigenous Artists

Suzanne was also one of the first people to support Indigenous artists in Ontario. She helped talented people like David General, Vince Bomberry, Shirley Cheechoo, and Carl Beam get noticed.

Helping Students and Programs

She also created a special plan at TVOntario for programs about Indigenous culture. She even set up a scholarship at Brock University in St. Catharines to help Indigenous students go to college.

Awards and Special Honours

Suzanne Rochon-Burnett received many important awards for her work.

• In 2002, she was made a Member of the Order of Canada. This is one of the highest honours a Canadian citizen can receive.
• She also received the Order of Ontario, which is the highest honour in the province of Ontario.
• In 2006, she was added to the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business's Hall of Fame. This recognized her great achievements in business.

See also

• Notable Indigenous people of Canada