For more than 20 years, the Champion of Enactus award has recognized partners and business leaders who play an instrumental role in advancing the work of Enactus Canada to support students in their growth as entrepreneurs and leaders.
The 2026 Champion of Enactus award celebrates John and Marcy McCall MacBain for their transformational support of Enactus Canada and dedication to developing leadership-based programs for Enactus students. Over the past eight years, the McCall MacBain Foundation has helped to create an in-depth leadership training program providing Enactus students with access to local leaders and professional skills development.
Three annual training summits empower students to better support their teams. Together, they provide student leaders with intensive skill-building sessions, opportunities to share best practices with peers, and intimate fireside chats with business and community leaders on topics such as mental health awareness, conflict resolution, succession planning, and strategic growth.
John and Marcy McCall MacBain established the McCall MacBain Foundation in 2007. They have dedicated most of their philanthropy to scholarships and initiatives to help young people realize their full potential, while tackling some of the world’s most pressing environmental and health challenges.
“The funding and development support provided by the McCall MacBain Foundation has been instrumental in elevating the leadership experience for Enactus students. John and Marcy’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders is what makes them stand out as inspiring Champions of Enactus,” said Catherine Fowler, President and CEO of Enactus Canada.
John brought his leadership journey to life during a fireside chat moderated by Enactus Board Director Franca Gucciardi, at the National Exposition. Sharing personal stories from his entrepreneurial journey, he reflected on a driving philosophy that has shaped the Foundation’s work – ‘talent is everywhere, opportunity is not’. He spoke about the importance of creating pathways for young people to access opportunities, develop their potential, and lead meaningful change – an inspiring message that strongly resonated with the students.
The Champion of Enactus award was first presented in 2004 and has since honored 65 leaders and supporters of Enactus Canada.
