Michael James Audain is a fifth-generation British Columbian and long-time Vancouver resident whose remarkable career and philanthropy have left a profound mark on the city, the province, and Canada. A social activist, civil servant, home builder, art collector, and philanthropist, he has dedicated his life to advancing justice, housing, culture, and community well-being.
As a young activist, Michael led peace marches at UBC, joined the Freedom Riders in the American South—where he was jailed for protesting racial segregation—and co-founded the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association. Professionally, he became one of Canada’s foremost housing policy experts, ultimately founding Polygon Homes Ltd. and helping to build tens of thousands of homes in Metro Vancouver.
Together with his wife Yoshiko Karasawa, Michael has transformed the cultural landscape of British Columbia. They established the Audain Art Museum in Whistler, supported scholarships, professorships, and endowments, and provided the single largest donation to the arts in Canadian history to the Vancouver Art Gallery. Through the Audain Foundation, he has also advanced social justice, housing, environmental protection, and education.
Michael Audain’s contributions have been recognized with the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia, and numerous national and international honours. His lifelong dedication to housing, justice, and the arts continues to enrich Vancouver and inspire future generations.
Awarded June 3, 2025, and presented on October 23, 2025.