Internationally-renowned singer/songwriter
At the age of 27, internationally-renowned singer-songwriter Justin Hines was awarded the 2009 March of Dimes Canada Rick Hansen Award of
Excellence, for his tireless work as an advocate and role model for people with disabilities.
Winners will have demonstrated by action and deed, the dedication and commitment exemplified by Rick Hansen, and be credited with an internationally recognized accomplishment in aid of people with physical disabilities. The Rick Hansen Award of Excellence is not offered yearly, but rather to the select individuals, who like Justin; best personify the spirit of the Award.
In addition to the Rick Hansen Award of Excellence, Justin has been honoured with The Roger Abbott and Don Ferguson Easter Seals Award for Achievement in the Performing Arts, a YTV Achievement Award for Best Performance or Host in a Variety program or series, FACTOR (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent on Record) Breakthrough Artist of the Year (2008) and a Gemini Award nomination.
Justin has a rare genetic joint condition called Larsen Syndrome and uses a motorized wheelchair, “Sometimes people find it hard to understand why I would be so positive” he explains, “I was born into my situation, I don’t know any different, and I feel very fortunate for my family and all the support I have. I know my physical situation is a bit of an attention grabber, but as an artist and performer, it is my job to hold the audience’s attention, and let the music speak for itself.”
Justin first came to Bloorview Kids Rehab in the late eighties, where he enjoyed musical activities.
“One of my favorite memories at Bloorview was being asked to represent Bloorview by giving a speech at a Randy Travis concert. The other was singing the music for “The Dragon Sleeps Tonight” which was a play put on by our class for the school,” says Justin.
“From a toddler I was very much drawn to music and actually started sining prior to talking. It was clearly my passion from birth. That passion was nurtured by family and peers and thus never left me,” says Justin.
Competing against hundreds of entrants, 14-year-old Justin won a radio contest to sing the Canadian national anthem at a Toronto Raptors game. His first gig was in front of 17,000 people.
Fourteen years later, Hines is a successful singer-songwriter. His second album, Chasing Silver, came out this week. A current television commercial for Ontario Tourism – “There's no place like this” – boosts his profile.
