BlackBerry co-CEOs in Canada's Business Hall of Fame

Toronto, Nov 19 (IANS) Jim Balsillie and Mike Lazaridis, co-CEOs of BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion (RIM), have been inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

The two are among six top Canadian business leaders who were given this year's honour by the Junior Association of Canada (JAC) at a luncheon here Tuesday.

They will be formally inducted into what is the called the Order of the Business Hall of Fame 31st Companion Class at a gala event here in May 2009.

These business leaders are being recognised for their business excellence, outstanding achievements and enduring contributions to Canadian society, the Junior Association of Canada said in a statement.

'Each of these six outstanding individuals ... has made a significant and valuable contribution to the Canadian business community, the country's economy and quality of life in Canada,' said Frank McKenna, deputy chair of TD Bank Financial Group and chancellor of the Order of the Business Hall of Fame.

'It is my great pleasure to announce these exceptional Canadians as Inductees for their past achievements as well as the legacy they have created for future generations of aspiring young business leaders,' added McKenna, who has also served as Canada's ambassador in Washington.

The Order of the Business Hall of Fame was established by the Junior Achievement of Canada in 1979.

Inductees are nominated by their peers and then chosen by an independent selection committee comprising top business, academic and media institutions.