Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham powered by CCDI

CCDI is pleased to introduce 'Inclusion Table Talks', a new sub-series of our podcast: Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. This series brings together CCDI's Employer Partners and thought leaders for in-depth discussions on the growing anti-DEI rhetoric and its impact on our collective vision of building a more inclusive Canada. We'll explore what DEIA truly is and isn't, address common misconceptions, and discuss the profound impact DEIA has had and continues to have on workplaces across Canada. In this episode, Dr. Sara-Jane Finlay joins us to unpack the rising prevalence of anti-DEI rhetoric. She is the Associate Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). We begin by hearing from Dr. Finlay on the landscape of DEI across Canada, and what has set certain companies up for long-term success in this arena. Discussing diversity as an outcome of equitable policies, we explore the government’s role and the impact of the media on public opinion. We unpack the changing acronym, from DEI to DEIAT, and discuss some of the challenges increasingly associated with this work. Lastly, Dr. Finlay offers some advice on the roles we can each play to build a more inclusive future. Thanks for joining us. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Sara-Jane Finlay on LinkedInEquity and Inclusion Office of the University of British ColumbiaInsurance Corporation of British ColumbiaCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionThe Tyranny of MeritLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

As we enter 2025, CCDI is excited to launch Season 4 of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. In the first episode of the year, we reflect on the challenges we face in diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Positive psychologist Kimberley Wakefield joins us to share insights and tips for how to navigate 2025 with good intentions and the skills needed to take care of our mental well-being. We start our conversation by defining positive psychology and how it differs from traditional psychology. Next, we discuss how Barbara Fredrickson’s broaden-and-build theory lays a foundation for understanding the role of positive emotions, considering what changes when we begin to notice and lean into positive moments. Touching on the power of gratitude, Kimberley shares a strategy for those who do not thrive on a gratitude practice. We also discuss what can change when you identify your strengths and how you can do so. Join us for an enriching conversation about building your positivity muscle, embracing gratitude, and playing to your strengths while understanding those of your colleagues! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Kimberley WakefieldKimberley Wakefield on LinkedInVIA Character Strengths SurveyCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Each year, on December 3rd, the United Nations observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. Systemic, cultural, and attitudinal challenges underscore the importance of creating inclusive and accessible environments. In this new episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we are honoured to welcome Angela Bonfanti, President and CEO of the CNIB Foundation. Angela shares her invaluable insights on advocacy, leadership, and empowering the blind community to access meaningful employment. Our discussion highlights how fostering inclusivity and accessibility not only enhances organizational culture and drives business success. Since joining CNIB in 2011, Angela has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s strategic vision and addressing the challenges Canadians face with sight loss. She reflects on her journey into advocacy, inspired by witnessing the barriers her father faced due to a debilitating eye condition. Angela also discusses the innovative initiatives she is most passionate about and CNIB’s ongoing efforts to address the limitations of Canada’s infrastructure. Join us as we explore Angela’s story and her commitment to creating a more inclusive future. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: CNIB FoundationAngela BonfantiAngela Bonfanti on LinkedInAngela Bonfanti on InstagramCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

In recognition of the International Day of Tolerance on November 16, we’re exploring the importance of fostering acceptance and understanding through meaningful conversations. In the latest episode of CCDI’s Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we welcome Sonia Sangha, Global Senior Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leader at IKEA, for a deep dive into tolerance in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). With over 20 years of experience shaped by global, national, and regional perspectives, Sonia’s approach to DEIA is profoundly shaped by her background as a first-generation Indo-Canadian. Join us as we discuss Sonia’s career journey, from her early experiences to her advocacy for South Asian and underrepresented communities in Canada and beyond. Listen to Sonia’s perspectives on allyship, and practical steps for fostering tolerance and challenging misinformation. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Sonia Sangha on LinkedInSouth Asian Immigration to Canada Statistics ChartEnvironics Institute - Canadian public opinion about immigration and refugees - Fall 2024Canada’s Far-Right is Targeting South Asian and Sikh Canadians to Incite Anti-Immigrant HateFront Burner CBC podcast - The rise of anti-South Asian content onlineStop AAPI Hate – Empowered/Imperiled – The Rise of South Asian Representation and Anti-South Asian RacismRioters carry out violent, racist attacks across several British cities. What happened, and what comes next?South Asian newcomers to Canada say online hate is taking a toll Canadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

In today's episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we engage in a necessary and thought-provoking dialogue on Islamophobia in Canada, a pressing issue given the complex and evolving geopolitical landscape, including current conflicts. We acknowledge that some listeners may find this discussion challenging and encourage you to proceed with care and self-compassion. Our guest, Mohammed Hashim, brings over two decades of expertise as a human rights advocate to shed light on these critical issues. As the CEO of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) and the lead of the National Hate Crimes Task Force with the RCMP, Mohammed offers a unique perspective on the impact of Islamophobia in Canada, especially within Muslim communities. We explore how diverse Muslim communities experience discrimination differently, the ways it manifests in workplaces, and the responsibility of employers to support employees through times of crisis. Mohammed also delves into the complexities of advocating for human rights, offers insights on prosecuting hate speech, and shares guidance on nurturing empathy, humility, and creating meaningful change. Tune in to this essential episode and join us in fostering more inclusive, understanding communities. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Mohammed Hashim on LinkedInCanadian Race Relations FoundationHate Crime Task ForceMontrealTruth and Reconciliation Strategy in MontrealNational Council Canadian MuslimsCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, we are reminded of the collective responsibility to recognize the truths of our shared history and to actively engage in reconciliation efforts. Building a racism-free workplace is an essential part of this ongoing journey, and learning from the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples is a key step forward. In this new episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we are joined by Elijah Blackbird, Culture Manager at the Beer Store, a valued five-year Employer Partner of CCDI, who has been working in diversity, equity, and inclusion for more than 25 years. Elijah, who also serves on the Board of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada and coaches youth soccer, offers a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the diverse realities of Indigenous communities in Canada. Elijah begins by highlighting the diversity of indigeneity in Canada and how a single act of inclusion shaped his life. He shares his vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing its deeper meaning, and explores the vital role of a Culture Manager. Elijah also discusses Truth and Reconciliation, urging Canadians to challenge their perceptions of Indigenous Peoples, and shares key lessons on inclusion and indigeneity. Tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Elijah Blackbird on LinkedInElijah Blackbird on XThe Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of CanadaThe Beer StoreCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Happy International Youth Day! Today, we celebrate the power and potential of young people to shape a more inclusive and vibrant future. Our latest episode of the Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham podcast features Kevin Lawler and Rowan O’Grady from the Whiteboard Collective (WBC), who are passionately working to ensure that young people from all backgrounds have access to meaningful job opportunities. In this special episode, Kevin and Rowan share their inspiring vision for a society where youth are not only included but empowered to thrive. WBC is a social impact career accelerator dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating sustainable employment outcomes for marginalized communities across Canada. Tune in as they discuss innovative career programs and their collaborative efforts with corporate partners to rethink talent acquisition and foster a more equitable society. Whether you're a young professional, an advocate, or an employer, this conversation is packed with practical advice on how to make a real impact. Join us in amplifying the voices of young changemakers today! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Whiteboard CollectiveWhiteboard Collective on LinkedInWhiteboard Collective on InstagramKevin Lawler on LinkedInRowan O’Grady on LinkedInPinball Clemons FoundationsCCDI ‘See Different’ Youth Education InitiativeCanadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP) CertificationCanadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI)Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Episode 6: Show Notes This summer, with Canada's natural beauty on full display, we acknowledge and express gratitude towards the original caretakers of this land. Today, we honour them here on the Leader Talks Podcast and reflect on our journey of learning and unlearning for progress. Committed to truth and reconciliation, we've partnered with many like-minded organizations, including the very impressive Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA). In today's new episode, we are joined by Mohamed El Daly, Director of Outreach and Product Services at APEGA. Mohamed shares insights into the company's work and his role. We discuss APEGA's evolution, the social and business imperatives for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the importance of cultural awareness and cultural competence in Mohamed's work. Additionally, we explore the organization's commitment to improving representation of women and using research to uplift communities. You will also get a glimpse of other regulatory bodies excelling in DEI and reconciliation. Plus, Mohamed shares helpful tips for integrating DEI into your communities! Available at your preferred podcast platform now, or visit: https://ccdi.ca/podcast/ Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Mohamed El Daly on LinkedInMohamed El Daly on XAPEGACCDI Awards of SuccessEngineers CanadaCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

June is the perfect month for critical reflection, as the various causes that we rally for and celebrate help us remember our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable Canada. Today we are joined by one of Canada’s most prominent social entrepreneurs and foremost expert in Indigenous economic innovation and workplace inclusion strategies, Kelly Lendsay. As the Founder, President, and CEO of Indigenous Works (formerly the Aboriginal Human Resource Council), Kelly is geared toward increasing the engagement of Indigenous people in the Canadian economy. Today is all about getting to know CCDI’s long-time strategic partner, Indigenous Works a little better, and we begin with how Kelly developed his passion for all things related to Indigenous inclusion. We explore the organizational setups of Indigenous Works and Luminary - Kelly’s newest ground-breaking initiative – and our guest details the opportunities that await by joining the DreamMakers Council. To end, Kelly reminds us of the important work that still needs to be done for Indigenous inclusion in Canada, and he gives us a glimpse into the upcoming annual Inclusion Works conference. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Kelly Lendsay on LinkedInKelly Lendsay on XIndigenous Works Luminary: Advancing Indigenous InnovationRotman-ICD Directors EducationThe Assembly of First NationsEdwards School of BusinessThe DreamMakers CouncilInclusion Works ‘24National Indigenous Economy StrategyStrategic Science FundCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Célébrons la Journée internationale sans régime! Dans une société où les idées de corps parfait et d'objectifs de remise en forme sont constamment imposées aux gens sous la forme de soi-disant « conseils », elles sont également à l'origine d'un grand nombre de discriminations, de préjugés et d'inégalités sur le lieu de travail. Aujourd'hui, orientons la conversation vers la positivité corporelle et l'acceptation de soi, promouvons une relation plus saine avec la nourriture et rappelons-nous l'importance de valoriser toutes les formes et toutes les tailles. Edith Bernier, fondatrice de Grossophobie.ca, se joint à nous pour cet épisode de Conversations entre leaders avec Anne-Marie Pham. Edith Bernier est vulgarisatrice, autrice, conférencière et consultante. Bachelière en journalisme, elle est spécialisée dans la lutte à la grossophobie et dans l’inclusion des personnes grosses. Son second livre, Grosse, et puis? Connaître et combattre la grossophobie, est sorti en 2020 au Québec et en 2022 en Europe francophone chez les Éditions Marabout. Son 2e ouvrage, Grandir sans grossophobie, est en magasin depuis février 2023. Rejoignez-nous alors que nous discutons de la dure réalité des pressions sociétales pour se conformer à des normes de beauté irréalistes et que nous entendons Edith partager son parcours personnel avec la grossophobie et le mouvement d'Acceptation des personnes grosses, soulignant la nécessité pour la société de reconnaître que le poids n'est pas une mesure de la valeur d'un·e individu·e. Nous découvrons également comment les gens peuvent devenir des allié·e·s dans la lutte contre la grossophobie et ce que les employeurs peuvent faire de façon pratique pour assurer un environnement diversifié et inclusif pour toutes les personnes. Soyez à l'écoute pour entendre toutes les idées stimulantes d'Edith, et bien plus encore!

In honour of International Women’s Day, we’re using today’s conversation to take a closer look at women’s rights, and what is being done to elevate women’s voices from all over Canada. Joining us in today's episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham is Shari Graydon, an award-winning author, speaker, print and broadcast columnist, and advocate for women’s rights. She is also the founder of Informed Opinions, a social mission project that seeks to amplify the voices of women and gender-diverse people to ensure that their experiences and insights help shape a more equitable and inclusive Canada. In today's conversation with Shari, we delve into the current state of the media landscape in Canada, the progress that has been made in terms of gender, diversity, and representation, and what still needs to change. She tells us about the various initiatives that Informed Opinions have undertaken, their impact on women's lives and the conditions that motivated them to step into the political sphere. Shari also shares her recommendations for the media on how to improve gender equality, along with her advice to organizations on how to foster gender equality in the workplace. Be sure to tune in to hear all of Shari's thought-provoking insights, the urgent work being done by Informed Opinions, and much more! Key points from this episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Shari GraydonShari Graydon on LinkedInShari Graydon on XInformed OpinionsGender Gap TrackerEqual VoiceBalance the PowerCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Getting a job is proving difficult for many who have immigrated to Canada, even for those professionally qualified. More needs to be done to ensure that new and immigrant professionals are given a platform to earn their keep, and the more diverse, equitable, and inclusive those environments are, the better! In observation of Black History Month, and to help us dive deeper into this topic, we are joined by Nketti Johnston-Taylor for our new podcast episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. Nketti is the executive director of the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC), an organization that connects newcomer professionals to strategies that will lead to successful employment outcomes. After taking a brief look at the history of her home city of Calgary, we learn about her immigration story, how it ties into her professional background, and everything there is to know about CRIEC and the work that they do. We discuss Nketti’s mindset during the early years of her immigration and her assessment of the cultural barriers that prevent immigrants from finding work in Canada. She also shares her advice for employers to create more hospitable workplaces, as well as some tips for international professionals on how to find work in a new country. Tune in for all this and more! A huge 'thank you!' to Reliance Home Comfort for sponsoring this episode! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Nketti Johnston-Taylor on LinkedInNketti Johnston-Taylor on XNketti Johnston-Taylor on InstagramCRIECMaking ChangesPrairie Centre for Excellence in MentoringCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

What does it take to transform a company from having virtually no diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to implementing a comprehensive strategy that spans the entire organization? To help us answer this question, we are joined by Normand St-Gelais for the first episode of season 3 of CCDI’s podcast, Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. Normand is Director of Corporate Responsibility at Sodexo, a dedicated long-term CCDI Founding Employer Partner. For Sodexo in Canada, his role encompasses Diversity and Inclusion, Sustainability, and overseeing their Stop Hunger Foundation. We sit down with Normand to discuss his career at Sodexo, the company’s transformative journey on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how they went from virtually no DEI strategy to establishing six well-thought-out resource groups that play an invaluable role in representing the diversity of their organization. We get into the policies that were reviewed and established once DEI became an organizational priority, the impact this has had on company culture, key challenges they experienced along the way, and a whole lot more. To hear the full scope of their ongoing DEI evolution along with Normand’s advice for companies starting out on their diversity, equity, and inclusion journey, be sure to tune in for this informative conversation! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: SodexoNormand St-Gelais on LinkedInCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

In today's new podcast episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we're delving into the intricacies of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We've noticed the profound impact this war has had on colleges, teams, and workplaces. Sorting through the vast amount of information available is challenging as it's tough to discern the facts from the misleading or inaccurate information circulating. Joining us today is Brian Carwana, Executive Director at Encounter World Religions Centre, to help navigate and come to grips with this complex issue. Brian is an esteemed figure in the realm of religious literacy, with a wealth of experience spanning two decades in the field. Brian has actively engaged with diverse sectors, imparting insights and expertise on religious diversity and pluralism. In our conversation, we unpack the complexities of the war and its impacts on society and workplaces in Canada. We discuss the history of the war, the nuance factors resulting in an ongoing war, and its overall impact on Canadian society. Gain insights into the different perspectives on the war, the national discourse on the topic, how the conflict is creating tensions in the workplace and more. Brian also provides advice to leaders and employees for navigating the discourse with compassion and how to foster understanding of each other perspectives in the workplace. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of violence, conflict, and sensitive geopolitical issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which may be distressing or triggering for some Listeners. Listener discretion is advised. Key Points From This Episode: For further resources on the background of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, check out these two blogs here: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/10/11/background-on-the-israeli-palestinian-conflict/; https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/11/02/backgrounder-on-israel-palestine-part-ii/ To delve into understanding Antisemitism, explore this comprehensive blog: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/10/26/why-do-they-hate-the-jews/ Additionally, to gain insights into Palestinians and the Muslim Other, visit: https://religionsgeek.com/index.php/2023/11/08/palestinians-and-the-muslim-other/

Today’s special episode of Leader Talks commemorates Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), which is an important observance on November 20th each year to honour the memory of the transgender people whose lives have been lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. To mark the occasion, we are joined by Marni Panas, a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP), human rights champion, and a sought-after keynote speaker who is dedicated to creating safer and more inclusive places where everyone can be their whole selves. Marni believes that the most effective way to reduce discrimination is to get to know the humans behind the labels and identities ascribed to them, and in this episode, she shares some simple and effective ways to increase awareness, be better informed, unlearn our inherent biases, and be better allies to the LGBTQIA+ community. To learn more about centring humanity and compassion and being an up-stander, not a bystander, tune in today! Key points from this episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Marni PanasMarni Panas on XMarni Panas on LinkedInMarni Panas on InstagramTransgender Day of RemembranceCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Islamic History Month, observed in October, is dedicated to commemorating, enlightening, educating, and fostering a deeper understanding among fellow Canadians about the diverse and valuable contributions of the Muslim community to society. In this new episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we take a moment to celebrate the contributions of Muslims to Canada and discuss the many issues the community still faces. To help us unpack this nuance topic is Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia. Amira is a prominent journalist and human rights advocate who has made significant contributions to promoting equity, inclusion, and diversity in Canada. She has also worked in communications and human rights within Canada's labour movement and played a key role in promoting the civil liberties of Canadian Muslims. We start by delving into some interesting facts about the Muslim community and the state of islamophobia in Canada. Then, we discuss the background of the Muslim community in Canada, the concept of multiculturism, and the progress being made to combat Islamophobia. Amira shares details about her role, the essential work she is doing, and the many challenges Muslim communities currently face. We explore the intersection of race and religion in xenophobia, the hurdles younger Muslim generations must overcome, the impact of toxic narratives, common misconceptions surrounding Islam, and more. Tune in and gain a deeper understanding of the Muslim community in Canada with Amira Elghawaby! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Amira ElghawabyAmira Elghawaby on LinkedInAmira Elghawaby on InstagramAmira Elghawaby on XIslamic History Month Canada (IHMC)Blackfoot ConfederacyCanadian Labour Congress‘Canada's Multiculturalism - Worth Defending’‘Canada’s unions: urgent action needed to end Islamophobia, protect Muslim communities’The Myth of the Muslim TideCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham*Please note this episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, on Islamophobia, which was produced before the October 2023 Israel-Palestine conflict, does not reference this conflict and the impact on groups affected. CCDI is committed to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and we stand against both antisemitism and Islamophobia. We offer valuable resources to employers seeking assistance in addressing these challenges. To learn more about what organizations can do to define and combat antisemitism in the workplace and beyond, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9p1vXLuA1X0 for CCDI's free webinar: Antisemitism: How to recognize and prevent it in the workplace.

Today, we’d like to celebrate the incredible work being done in our country to promote and fight for gender-based health equity. However, this work is far from finished and there is still so much more to do. For instance, Canada is 30th out of 146 countries when it comes to the global gender gap index. While this statistic may not seem immediately harrowing, it still highlights the persistent and systemic barriers against gender equity in the country that require immediate correction. Joining us today are two big players in the fight for gender-based health equity in Canada, Mike Casia and Sharlene Rutherford. Mike is the president and MD of Organon Canada, a global healthcare company focused on women’s health that works very closely with Sharlene and her organizations, the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation and the Women’s Health Collective Canada, which are centred around the same concerns. Our conversation tackles gender equity and health, why women’s health cannot be ignored, the consequences of villainizing conversations around women’s health, and the common health inequalities that are prevalent in Canada today. Mike and Sharlene also graciously explain the great work that their organizations are doing, the various partnerships that they’re involved in to drive the gender-based health movement forward, and what employers and everyday citizens can do to support gender and health equality, plus so much more! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Mike Casia on LinkedIn Sharlene Rutherford on LinkedIn Organon Canada Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation Alberta Women’s Health Foundation Women’s Health Collective Canada ‘Global Gender Gap Report 2023’ ‘Surveying the Silence’ Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Today, we are joined by thought leader and truth and reconciliation program facilitator Salena Starling, who is also the co-owner and president of Community of Big Hearts. Salena has personally been through Canada’s foster care system and, in this episode, she opens up about her journey. We discover how and why the foster care system disproportionately affects Indigenous youth and what needs to change to break stereotypes and address intergenerational trauma. Salena’s story illustrates the implicit challenges that Indigenous youths are born into and what can be done to support reconciliation efforts. Our guest is an exception, having made it out of the system as a healthy, successful individual. Tune in to hear about her efforts to break the cycle and what the rest of us can do to facilitate change. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Salena Starling on LinkedIn Community of Big Hearts CanU Canada Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Self-care refers to the intentional activities and practices that individuals engage in to nurture their physical, mental, and emotional health. Joining us today to help us understand the importance of self-care is Psychologist and Human Resources Consultant at Invictus Psychology and Consulting, Zuraida Dada. Zuraida is a seasoned psychologist specializing in adult individual therapy. She is known for her ability to create a warm, safe environment and provide empathetic, solution-focused care. Her main objective is to aid clients in reconnecting with themselves, strengthening their resilience, and enhancing their coping strategies. In our conversation, we uncover the importance of self-care through the lens of her personal and professional experiences. We unpack the negative stigmas of mental health, the value of psychoeducation, her positive psychology approach, and the causes of mental health issues. We also talk about safe places and the role of supervisors in mental health and hear invaluable advice on creating healthy work environments. Tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Zuraida Dada on LinkedIn Invictus Psychology and Consulting The Canadian Psychological Association The Mental Health Commission of Canada International Self-Care Day (ISD) Dr. Diane McIntosh This Is Depression Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Today's guest is Kai Scott, and he is here to share his experience and expertise on the subject of pronouns and inclusive language. Kai is the President and Gender Strategist at TransFocus Consulting and has a great amount of insight into diversity in the workplace, with a focus on guiding thoughtful, respectful, and impactful conversations. In our chat, we get into some of the crucial areas of this discussion, including how to respond and react to mistakes, necessary nuances, creating safer workplaces, and more. Kai also unpacks the roots of TransFocus and a little of his career history and grounding in social science. So if you would like some fresh illumination on this important aspect of diversity and inclusion, how to be a better ally, and the ways in which we can all support change within companies, be sure to tune in! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Reliance Home ComfortKai Scott on LinkedInTransFocus ConsultingTransFocus on LinkedInThe Surprisingly Simple Way to Transcend Differences About Gender TEDx TalkCanadian Centre for Diversity and InclusionLeader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham