Brothers Dubé receive City Builder Award
Once billed as “Canada’s youngest rock band,” the Brothers Dubé are the latest recipients of the Mayor’s City Builder Award.
The musical brothers, Quinn, Jan and Liam Dubé, received the award at a recent council meeting from Mayor Jim Watson and Ward 2 Coun. Rainer Bloess in honour of “their success in the music industry, philanthropy, and inspiring young people to change the world through their creativity and passion.”
Quinn, Jan, and Liam began their musical journey in 2006 at the ages of six, eight, and 10 when their mother developed cancer. As a way to lift her spirits, they began covering her favourite songs and sharing them on YouTube.
After she succumbed to her illness in 2008, the boys began busking on the streets of their hometown of Ottawa with the goal of inspiring people with their story and exceptional talent.
The brothers were quickly labelled as Canada’s youngest rock band and have since become committed philanthropists and social activists. Through their phenomenal performances they have raised more than $150,000 for causes that relate closely to their own story, including their most noticed work of helping orphans in Haiti.
The Brothers Dubé now produce and perform full-scale rock shows drawing thousands of people to performances at some of the largest and more popular music festivals including Bluesfest, Osheaga and the Montreal Pop Festival. Their music has also been featured on award-winning Canadian television shows including Degrassi.
These three young and talented musicians have been the recipients of several accolades for their community and charitable service.
These include the 2011 United Way Community Builder of the Year Award, the Heart of Gold Award, a commendation from the prime minister of Canada and a nomination for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and Governor General’s Award.
The Mayor’s City Builder Award is a civic honour created by Watson to recognize an individual, group or organization that has, through outstanding volunteerism or exemplary action, demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to making our city a better place today and for the future.
This may include lifelong service, outstanding acts of kindness, inspiring charitable work, community building or other exemplary achievements. Individuals, groups or organizations may be nominated by members of City Council or the public. The award is presented at the beginning of each City Council meeting.