- The Governor General of Canada
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Salmabegum Lakhani
Edmonton, Alberta
Grant of Arms and Supporters, with differences to Safia Jehan Lakhani and Soraya Azra Lakhani
May 15, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 182
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Blazon
Arms
Gyronny arrondi of four Gules and Or, a pellet charged with a wild rose proper;
Crest
A pronghorn lodged guardant proper gorged of a ribbon Sable pendent therefrom a heart Gules;
Supporters
Two grey crowned cranes standing on a rocky mount charged with Stargazer lilies and wild roses in front of snowy mountains proper;
Motto
UBUNTU;
Symbolism
Arms
Red, black and gold are the colours of the flag of Uganda, where Her Honour was born. The background in the form of wavy segments twisting in harmony represents Her Honour’s volunteer activities, and the notions of outreach and generosity. The wild rose is the floral emblem of Alberta.
Crest
The pronghorn, native to Alberta, is one of the supporters in the arms of that province. The fastest land animal in North America, it is renowned for its adaptability, sharp sight and elegance. The heart is a shape used in art since the Bronze Age by the Indus Civilization in South Asia, where Her Honour’s ancestors were originally from, and it became a metaphor for love in Europe during the Middle Ages. Here, it therefore represents the blending of cultures. It also alludes to Her Honour’s husband, a cardiologist by profession, in addition to representing compassion, charity and Her Honour’s desire to serve King and country.
Supporters
The grey crowned crane, the national bird of Uganda, known for its beautiful colours and dance skills, is a symbol of love, fidelity and longevity. The mountains allude to the Canadian Rockies as well as the Ruwenzori Mountains of Uganda. The red Stargazer lilies were Her Honour’s father’s favourite flowers, while the wild roses relate to the central flower on the shield.
Motto
This Bantu expression, meaning “I am because we are,” highlights the values of compassion and humanity which have guided Her Honour throughout her life. It creates a further link to her birthplace in Uganda.