Book this speaker: André Picard

About This Speaker: André Picard

André Picard is one of Canada’s leading health and public policy commentators. He has worked as a health reporter and columnist for The Globe and Mail since 1987. He is also the author of six bestselling books. Over the decades, André has built a reputation as a trusted voice on public health issues. His sharp analysis and relatable style engage a wide range of audiences.

André has received widespread recognition for his journalism. He has been nominated eight times for the National Newspaper Award, Canada’s top journalism prize, and has twice won as the nation’s Best Columnist. The Pan-American Health Organization awarded him the Centennial Prize for excellence in health reporting across 17 countries in the Americas. He also received the prestigious Michener Award for Meritorious Public Service Journalism.

Beyond journalism, André Picard advocates for better healthcare in Canada. The Canadian Public Health Association named him the country’s first “Public Health Hero.” The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health recognized him as a “Champion of Mental Health.” He also received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his work advancing health equity and access.

In 2023, André was named to the Order of Canada—one of the country’s highest civilian honours—for his lifetime commitment to improving public health understanding and practices.

André Picard is a graduate of the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. He has also received honorary doctorates from eight institutions, including the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto.

Known for his conversational tone and gift for storytelling, André simplifies complex topics to connect with audiences of all backgrounds. Fluent in English and French, he sparks curiosity and offers clear, insightful commentary. This makes him a sought-after speaker on health, policy, and social issues.

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