2025 Leaders Awards – Celebrating Calgary’s Exceptional Business Leaders
A few years ago, I first came across Business in Calgary Magazine while working a moving job — helping relocate a law office I wasn’t yet qualified to work in. At that moment, it was the closest I had ever been to the legal profession.
Fast forward to today: that same magazine now sits proudly on our reception desk at Osuji & Smith Lawyers, featuring me among Business in Calgary Magazine’s 2025 Leaders.
It’s hard to describe the feeling — a full-circle moment, indeed. ✨
This recognition is more than an individual milestone. It represents perseverance, purpose, and the power of community. It’s a reminder that Calgary remains a city where stories like this — stories of growth, resilience, and shared success — are possible.
Gratitude to My Team
To my incredible team at Osuji & Smith Lawyers — thank you for walking this journey with me. Your belief in our shared vision, your pursuit of excellence, and your commitment to telling a different kind of story in the legal profession make every recognition meaningful.
The ‘Foot in the Door’ Initiative (FIDI): Empowering Legal Pathways
To the leadership of FIDI – The Foot in the Door Initiative, I extend my heartfelt appreciation. Under the exceptional guidance of our Board Chair, Juliette Omonigho, our Board Secretary, Shikha Shukla, and our dedicated Board Members — Christie Eze, Chukwuemeka Ibezim Dimiri, Lucy Diale Mewanu, Sukhcreet Kaur, Giavanna Valacco, Deborah Pearce, Patricia Uduebor, LL.B, B.L, Enaya Emuveyan, Chukwuemeka E., Deji, and Airat Abu — you are redefining what access and inclusion mean in our profession.
Your work empowers internationally and locally trained lawyers to meaningfully participate in Canada’s legal landscape. You are changing pathways, creating opportunities, and transforming lives. 🌍
A Dedication to My Father
To my late father, Sir Joseph Osuji — this recognition, #122 in my journey, is dedicated to you.
Your quiet lessons in work, faith, and dignity continue to guide every step I take. Together with my mother, your partner of nearly 60 years, you raised eight professionals on a teacher’s modest wages — through sacrifice and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
Closing Reflections
As I reflect on this moment, I am filled with gratitude — for the opportunities this city provides, for the people who walk alongside me, and for the chance to contribute to Calgary’s evolving business story.
Congratulations to my fellow honourees — leaders who continue to shape the future of business in Calgary with innovation, integrity, and heart.
Dr. Charles Osuji, LL.D. (Hon.), C.Dir.
Also read: Business in Calgary Leaders Awards Recipients to be Honoured at 2025 Event
