About the Author
Devon grew up in Harmony Vale, Jamaica and immigrated to Winnipeg,
Manitoba, Canada, in 1975, two months shy of his 12th birthday. He faced significant cultural challenges at the start. With the help of key difference makers, Devon overcame those challenges and, at an early age, determined he would become an agent of social change. He saw policing as his vehicle to accomplish that goal.
Devon joined the Winnipeg Police Service in 1987, where he worked for 29 years, culminating in his historic tenure as Chief of Police from 2012 to 2016, becoming Canada’s first Black Chief of Police. Known for his professionalism, integrity, and innovative problem-solving, he made significant contributions to community safety and policing best practices across Canada and the United States.
Devon is highly skilled in evaluating and enhancing community safety systems, fostering meaningful stakeholder relationships, and navigating complex political landscapes. He spearheaded the development of Ontario’s Inspectorate of Policing. This groundbreaking initiative upholds compliance with the Community Safety and Policing Act while establishing new standards for excellence in law enforcement. Additionally, as chair of the Steering Committee for Manitoba’s Public Safety Training Strategy, Devon played a key role in shaping the
training framework for future public safety personnel.
Beyond policing, Devon has co-authored two children’s books, The Little Boy from Jamaica and The Little Girl from Osoyoos, with his wife, Pearlene. These books promote equity, diversity, and inclusion through a community-centered Lens.
Today, Devon continues to work across Canada and the U.S., assisting police services in addressing the evolving needs of 21st-century community safety. A sought-after speaker, he shares insights on leadership, organizational development, and the importance of unity in diversity.
this story isn’t just about Devon Clunis. It’s about all of us and what we can accomplish when we see one another as human beings first
Dedication
This story of my life and the lessons I’ve learned is dedicated to my grandmother, Louise Henry, whose unconditional love set the foundation of my life in place.
In her eyes, I found an endless reflection of my worth, while her words and actions breathed the very essence of who I am into being. My mother, Dorothy Johnson, without your love and immeasurable sacrifice, there would be no story to tell.
One Vision
- To inspire individuals and communities worldwide by sharing Devon Clunis’s extraordinary journey, demonstrating how hope, faith, and resilience can transform lives and bridge divides.
- To ignite a global movement of unity and compassion, encouraging readers to embrace empathy, build stronger communities, and work toward a more inclusive and caring world.
- To empower leaders and changemakers with actionable insights and lessons from Devon’s life, showing how purpose-driven leadership can create lasting, positive change.
- To leave a legacy of hope, reminding future generations that no matter their background or challenges, they too can rise, serve, and make a profound impact on the world.