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 and has written six bestselling books. Throughout his decades-long career, André has built a reputation as a trusted voice on public health issues, offering sharp analysis in a relatable style that engages diverse audiences.

André has earned widespread recognition as a journalist. He received eight nominations for the National Newspaper Award, Canada’s top journalism prize, and won twice as the nation’s Best Columnist. The Pan-American Health Organization honoured him with the Centennial Prize for excellence in health reporting across 17 countries in the Americas. He also won 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” for his contributions to improving healthcare. The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health recognized him as a “Champion of Mental Health.” In addition, André received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for advancing health equity and access.

In 2023, André earned the Order of Canada, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, for his lifetime dedication to improving public health understanding and practices.

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

Known for his conversational style and talent for storytelling, André Picard simplifies complex issues to connect with audiences from all backgrounds. Fluent in English and French, he sparks curiosity and delivers insightful commentary, making him a sought-after speaker on health, policy, and social issues.

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