The JUNO International Achievement Award recognizes Canadian artists who have attained exemplary success on the world stage. The award looks to honour Canadian talent who have not only topped charts, but who have raised the profile of Canadian music around the world.
This years winner was none other than Canadian artist Shawn Mendes. For almost a decade, Mendes has been capturing the hearts of fans across Canada, beginning with his 2013 hit “Stitches,”. In 2017, he went on to release his three-time platinum hit “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back”, securing his second #1 single.
His career has continued to thrive far beyond Canadian borders, with his fourth studio album, Wonder, which was released in 2020. Debuting at #1 in multiple global markets. Wonder now marks Mendes’ fourth consecutive #1 album.
In 2019, he founded The Shawn Mendes Foundation, which provides grants and resources to amplify the voices, messages, and platforms of young leaders driving positive change.
Mendes will begin his global tour later this year with “Wonder: The World Tour”, kicking off in June in Portland
It’s so weird. I feel super overwhelmed, and honoured, and just thank you so much for this.”
You know, when I was younger, I used to think… I really really thought, if I could just write one big hit song, people would like me and then I would be enough. And then it was to be nominated for a Juno or a Grammy, then maybe people would take me seriously, and then I would be enough. We’re taught to believe that what we achieve is the same thing as what we are worth. But something that I know to be true now is that I was enough before anybody knew my name. I’m not standing here to tell you to give up on your dreams, I’m just here to tell you that while you are chasing them, don’t forget to enjoy the process, and remember, you’re already enough. Thank you so much.
Accepting this award will be a surreal moment, To be recognized for my work not only in Canada, but around the world, is a tremendous honour and I am humbled to join an outstanding group of artists who have helped put Canadian music on the map.
