Speakers
Tycely Williams, CFRE
Chief Development Officer, America’s Promise Alliance
Tycely Williams, a Certified Fundraising Executive, has inspired individuals and institutions to invest more than $100 million dollars in charitable causes. As Chief Development Officer for America’s Promise Alliance, she leads contributed and earned income strategies for the largest alliance of youth-serving organizations in the United States. Over the past 23 years, Tycely advanced philanthropy as vice president of development of YWCA USA, as the chief development officer for the American Red Cross National Capital Region, an association director of major gifts for the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, a director of development for two health and human services organizations, the artistic director of two community- based dance studios, and the executive director for a nonprofit organization founded by a Fortune 500 company.
A cum laude graduate of Wake Forest University, Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication with distinguished departmental honors and a minor in Journalism. Tycely possesses an Executive Master’s in Leadership from The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University.
In her spare time, she chairs the Board of Trustees for Monument Academy Public Charter School and volunteers with numerous youth-serving organizations. Tycely is the current chair of The Nonprofit Alliance Foundation, is a past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Washington DC Metro Chapter, and the immediate past chair of the Women’s Impact Initiative of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. A joyful divorcée, Tycely enjoys traveling, crashing charitable fundraising galas, taste-testing fried green tomatoes and conversing with values-driven leaders in preparation for her first book.
You can follow Tycely’s take on youth engagement, voluntarism, and charitable fundraising on Twitter via @Tycely.
Tycely Williams, a Certified Fundraising Executive, has inspired individuals and institutions to invest more than $100 million dollars in charitable causes. As Chief Development Officer for America’s Promise Alliance, she leads contributed and earned income strategies for the largest alliance of youth-serving organizations in the United States. Over the past 23 years, Tycely advanced philanthropy as vice president of development of YWCA USA, as the chief development officer for the American Red Cross National Capital Region, an association director of major gifts for the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, a director of development for two health and human services organizations, the artistic director of two community- based dance studios, and the executive director for a nonprofit organization founded by a Fortune 500 company.
A cum laude graduate of Wake Forest University, Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication with distinguished departmental honors and a minor in Journalism. Tycely possesses an Executive Master’s in Leadership from The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University.
In her spare time, she chairs the Board of Trustees for Monument Academy Public Charter School and volunteers with numerous youth-serving organizations. Tycely is the current chair of The Nonprofit Alliance Foundation, is a past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Washington DC Metro Chapter, and the immediate past chair of the Women’s Impact Initiative of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. A joyful divorcée, Tycely enjoys traveling, crashing charitable fundraising galas, taste-testing fried green tomatoes and conversing with values-driven leaders in preparation for her first book.
You can follow Tycely’s take on youth engagement, voluntarism, and charitable fundraising on Twitter via @Tycely.
Sandra Hawken
President and CEO, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation
Sandra Hawken joined Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation as President and CEO in 2015.
Prior to joining Holland Bloorview Foundation, Sandra started her career in advertising and held senior leadership roles at Canadian Women’s Foundation, Royal LePage Shelter Foundation and the Assaulted Women’s Helpline. In her 25-year career, she’s re-engineered operations and inspired high-performing staff teams with innovation mandates to launch record-breaking fundraising, brand-building and engagement campaigns.
Sandra has been a strong advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion throughout her career as a frequent spokesperson in the national media, persuasively reframing social complex issues to make them relevant and engaging for Canadians. At Holland Bloorview she has created an inclusive culture by transforming Board composition and staff engagement with an EDI lens that has led to a tripling of the donor base and doubling of annual funds raised. She has also lead the #DearEverybody campaign to reduce stigma for people with disability and partner with national brands to increase disability representation in advertising.
Sandra is a member of the National Council of Foundation Executives and the Leaders Circle for the National Day of Conversation to increase equity in the charitable sector post #MeToo. Sandra’s other volunteer work has included past Chair of Canadian Marketing Association’s Not-for-Profit Marketing Council, past President of Brookfield RPS Charitable Foundation and board positions at several local and national women’s organizations.
Sandra has won national and international awards for innovation in media, partnerships and outreach, and is a proud alumni of Queen’s Smith School of Business (BComm ’95).
Sandra Hawken joined Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation as President and CEO in 2015.
Prior to joining Holland Bloorview Foundation, Sandra started her career in advertising and held senior leadership roles at Canadian Women’s Foundation, Royal LePage Shelter Foundation and the Assaulted Women’s Helpline. In her 25-year career, she’s re-engineered operations and inspired high-performing staff teams with innovation mandates to launch record-breaking fundraising, brand-building and engagement campaigns.
Sandra has been a strong advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion throughout her career as a frequent spokesperson in the national media, persuasively reframing social complex issues to make them relevant and engaging for Canadians. At Holland Bloorview she has created an inclusive culture by transforming Board composition and staff engagement with an EDI lens that has led to a tripling of the donor base and doubling of annual funds raised. She has also lead the #DearEverybody campaign to reduce stigma for people with disability and partner with national brands to increase disability representation in advertising.
Sandra is a member of the National Council of Foundation Executives and the Leaders Circle for the National Day of Conversation to increase equity in the charitable sector post #MeToo. Sandra’s other volunteer work has included past Chair of Canadian Marketing Association’s Not-for-Profit Marketing Council, past President of Brookfield RPS Charitable Foundation and board positions at several local and national women’s organizations.
Sandra has won national and international awards for innovation in media, partnerships and outreach, and is a proud alumni of Queen’s Smith School of Business (BComm ’95).
Dr. Wendy Cukier
Founder and Academic Director, Diversity Institute, Ryerson University
and Professor, Ted Rogers School of Management
Dr. Wendy Cukier is a Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy, and Founder of the Diversity Institute at Ryerson University. She is the co-author of the bestseller, Innovation Nation: Canadian Leadership from Java to Jurassic and former VP of Research and Innovation. The Diversity Institute has 75 research staff, 100 research associates from around the world, 200 industry partners and focuses on dimensions of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, future skills, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Harnessing the power of innovation, it promotes the advancement of underrepresented groups. The Diversity Institute is also a research lead for the $300 million Future Skills Centre and the $8.6 million Women Entrepreneurship Hub. Wendy has been recognized with the Harry Jerome Diversity Award, the Bob Marley Award, the Canada-Pakistan Business Council’s Female Professional of the Year, the Metropolis Research Award, the CATA Alliance, Sara Kirke Award for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and 100 Most Powerful Women by WXN. She has been named a YWCA Woman of Distinction, a Woman of Influence and one of the “100 Alumni who shaped the Century” by the University of Toronto. Wendy holds a PhD, an MBA, an MA, and honorary doctorates from Laval and Concordia.
and Professor, Ted Rogers School of Management
Dr. Wendy Cukier is a Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy, and Founder of the Diversity Institute at Ryerson University. She is the co-author of the bestseller, Innovation Nation: Canadian Leadership from Java to Jurassic and former VP of Research and Innovation. The Diversity Institute has 75 research staff, 100 research associates from around the world, 200 industry partners and focuses on dimensions of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, future skills, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Harnessing the power of innovation, it promotes the advancement of underrepresented groups. The Diversity Institute is also a research lead for the $300 million Future Skills Centre and the $8.6 million Women Entrepreneurship Hub. Wendy has been recognized with the Harry Jerome Diversity Award, the Bob Marley Award, the Canada-Pakistan Business Council’s Female Professional of the Year, the Metropolis Research Award, the CATA Alliance, Sara Kirke Award for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and 100 Most Powerful Women by WXN. She has been named a YWCA Woman of Distinction, a Woman of Influence and one of the “100 Alumni who shaped the Century” by the University of Toronto. Wendy holds a PhD, an MBA, an MA, and honorary doctorates from Laval and Concordia.
Paulette Senior
President & CEO, Canadian Women’s Foundation
Paulette Senior is President & CEO of the Canadian Women’s Foundation. She has
devoted her career to empowering women and girls to overcome barriers and reach
their full potential.
Paulette started her career on the front lines of social service organizations in some
of Toronto’s most economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. She saw how social
resources and systemic change could transform women’s lives. Through her work and
advocacy with shelters, as well as employment and housing programs, she has earned
numerous awards and become one of the most respected women leaders in Canada.
Paulette joined the Foundation in 2016, after 10 years as CEO of YWCA Canada. Her
work with the Foundation is guided by the vision of an inclusive, national movement
toward gender equity that will strengthen all Canadians.
Paulette Senior is President & CEO of the Canadian Women’s Foundation. She has
devoted her career to empowering women and girls to overcome barriers and reach
their full potential.
Paulette started her career on the front lines of social service organizations in some
of Toronto’s most economically disadvantaged neighbourhoods. She saw how social
resources and systemic change could transform women’s lives. Through her work and
advocacy with shelters, as well as employment and housing programs, she has earned
numerous awards and become one of the most respected women leaders in Canada.
Paulette joined the Foundation in 2016, after 10 years as CEO of YWCA Canada. Her
work with the Foundation is guided by the vision of an inclusive, national movement
toward gender equity that will strengthen all Canadians.
Shelley Uvanile-Hesch
President & CEO, Women's Trucking Federation of Canada and Professional Truck Driver, Sharp Transportation
Shelley Uvanile-Hesch is the CEO of Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada, a non-profit organization, with the mission to bridge barriers, empower women and provide a positive platform for education, mentorship, networking and development within the trucking/transportation industry.
She has over 30 years’ experience in Trucking/Transportation industry. Shelley has a history of supporting the Transportation/Trucking industry as a reputable and respected leader, spokesperson, and professional driver. Shelley is well-versed in the undertaking of several charitable initiatives, community campaigns and public outreach.
Her many skills include Management, Keynote Speaking, Leadership, Safety & Training. Shelley has a strong interest in philanthropy, promoting women within the industry and empowering teams and individuals.
Shelley was just recently inducted into the PMTC Hall of Fame For Professional Drivers. She is also a nominee for the 2020 Woman of Inspiration™ Awards.
Shelley Uvanile-Hesch is the CEO of Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada, a non-profit organization, with the mission to bridge barriers, empower women and provide a positive platform for education, mentorship, networking and development within the trucking/transportation industry.
She has over 30 years’ experience in Trucking/Transportation industry. Shelley has a history of supporting the Transportation/Trucking industry as a reputable and respected leader, spokesperson, and professional driver. Shelley is well-versed in the undertaking of several charitable initiatives, community campaigns and public outreach.
Her many skills include Management, Keynote Speaking, Leadership, Safety & Training. Shelley has a strong interest in philanthropy, promoting women within the industry and empowering teams and individuals.
Shelley was just recently inducted into the PMTC Hall of Fame For Professional Drivers. She is also a nominee for the 2020 Woman of Inspiration™ Awards.
Ron Kelusky
Ron Kelusky is Ontario's Chief Prevention Officer (CPO). The CPO oversees the Prevention Office within the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and has a wide range of responsibilities, including: working with Ontario's health and safety system partners to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities; reporting to the Minister of Labour on the performance of Ontario's occupational health and safety system through an Annual Report; setting province-wide training and safety programs standards; the establishment and implementation of a new provincial occupational health and safety strategy.
Prior to his appointment as CPO, Ron was President and CEO of Public Services Health and Safety Association (PSHSA), a Health and Safety Association of the Ministry of Labour. Before joining PSHSA, Ron held senior positions within the private and not for profit sectors and in municipal government. Ron holds a Master of Business Administration, is a Certified Municipal Manager (CMM III) and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and Canadian Society of Safety Engineers.
Prior to his appointment as CPO, Ron was President and CEO of Public Services Health and Safety Association (PSHSA), a Health and Safety Association of the Ministry of Labour. Before joining PSHSA, Ron held senior positions within the private and not for profit sectors and in municipal government. Ron holds a Master of Business Administration, is a Certified Municipal Manager (CMM III) and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and Canadian Society of Safety Engineers.
Arlene Dedier, B. Arch., PMP. Assoc. AIA, LEED GA
Director of Private Sector, Colliers Project Leaders
With over 25 years of experience, Arlene Dedier has an extensive background in architecture and construction management in the commercial and hospitality industry. She has a proven ability to direct new build, fit-up, and renovations projects, overseeing several multi-million-dollar projects simultaneously. With a lifelong interest in design, Arlene began a career in architecture and real estate development following the completion of her Architecture degree at Carleton University. From the start, she has focused on managing the development and construction of numerous tenant fit-outs and base buildings, which allowed her to establish herself as a designer and project manager for a large US Development firm. Arlene’s entire career has centred around working with commercial clients to deliver them the real estate space they need. The last 9 ½ years with Colliers she has grown the private sector business in Canada over 500%.
Arlene is also the firm’s firefighter, frequently brought in to rescue projects that have gone awry. Her ability to work with diverse teams, from brokers to C-Suite stakeholders, allows her to quickly determine a project’s issues and find ways to solve them. For Arlene, every project is a puzzle, and the challenge is putting together a result that aligns with her client’s operations.
Her charisma, paired with her deep industry knowledge, makes Arlene a natural leader, who can motivate project teams and provide meaningful insight into technical issues. This skillset has allowed her to thrive in her new role as Director. In late 2019, Arlene became part of the Diversity & Inclusion Executive Champions for Colliers North America to implement the vision to be an inclusive workplace where we can #BEAuthenitic to do our best for our clients, our communities and each other.
With over 25 years of experience, Arlene Dedier has an extensive background in architecture and construction management in the commercial and hospitality industry. She has a proven ability to direct new build, fit-up, and renovations projects, overseeing several multi-million-dollar projects simultaneously. With a lifelong interest in design, Arlene began a career in architecture and real estate development following the completion of her Architecture degree at Carleton University. From the start, she has focused on managing the development and construction of numerous tenant fit-outs and base buildings, which allowed her to establish herself as a designer and project manager for a large US Development firm. Arlene’s entire career has centred around working with commercial clients to deliver them the real estate space they need. The last 9 ½ years with Colliers she has grown the private sector business in Canada over 500%.
Arlene is also the firm’s firefighter, frequently brought in to rescue projects that have gone awry. Her ability to work with diverse teams, from brokers to C-Suite stakeholders, allows her to quickly determine a project’s issues and find ways to solve them. For Arlene, every project is a puzzle, and the challenge is putting together a result that aligns with her client’s operations.
Her charisma, paired with her deep industry knowledge, makes Arlene a natural leader, who can motivate project teams and provide meaningful insight into technical issues. This skillset has allowed her to thrive in her new role as Director. In late 2019, Arlene became part of the Diversity & Inclusion Executive Champions for Colliers North America to implement the vision to be an inclusive workplace where we can #BEAuthenitic to do our best for our clients, our communities and each other.
Kate Cornell
Research and Training Director, Aftermetoo
Kate Cornell is an advocate, writer, and speaker. Cornell has proudly worked in the not-for-profit sector for more than two decades. Her management work has focused on government relations, education & training, research & policy, fund development, equity & inclusion, and strategic communications. Most notably, she was Executive Director of a national arts service organization, a nationally-recognized arts manager, and the Co-Chair and Spokesperson (English) for the Canadian Arts Coalition. Cornell earned a PhD in Communications and Culture from Ryerson University and has taught at several university programs. Currently, Cornell is the Research and Training Director with Aftermetoo working to launch Rosa – a digital platform for workers that addresses workplace sexual harassment.
Kate Cornell is an advocate, writer, and speaker. Cornell has proudly worked in the not-for-profit sector for more than two decades. Her management work has focused on government relations, education & training, research & policy, fund development, equity & inclusion, and strategic communications. Most notably, she was Executive Director of a national arts service organization, a nationally-recognized arts manager, and the Co-Chair and Spokesperson (English) for the Canadian Arts Coalition. Cornell earned a PhD in Communications and Culture from Ryerson University and has taught at several university programs. Currently, Cornell is the Research and Training Director with Aftermetoo working to launch Rosa – a digital platform for workers that addresses workplace sexual harassment.
Barbie Liss
Co-Founder and Executive Director, ReHumanize
Barbie is a Life & Empowerment Coach, Energy Healer, Reiki Practitioner, Co-Facilitator of International Women’s Retreats and Co-Founder of the ReHumanize Movement. She has a BA in Psychology and over 15 years working with Women in a Health, Wellness and Fitness environment, as well as many years building and running an art business from the ground up.
As Coach, Facilitator and Speaker, Barbie is an UNteacher of societal messages and a perspective shift maker. She takes a heart-centered approach in guiding people inward to reclaim self and embody their fullest authenticity.
Through the healing path and education on her own journey as Mom of a Survivor following her daughter’s experience of sexual assault, and the ultimate deep healing brought by their restorative justice outcome, Barbie demonstrates great strength and compassion in the work she offers.
Barbie is a Life & Empowerment Coach, Energy Healer, Reiki Practitioner, Co-Facilitator of International Women’s Retreats and Co-Founder of the ReHumanize Movement. She has a BA in Psychology and over 15 years working with Women in a Health, Wellness and Fitness environment, as well as many years building and running an art business from the ground up.
As Coach, Facilitator and Speaker, Barbie is an UNteacher of societal messages and a perspective shift maker. She takes a heart-centered approach in guiding people inward to reclaim self and embody their fullest authenticity.
Through the healing path and education on her own journey as Mom of a Survivor following her daughter’s experience of sexual assault, and the ultimate deep healing brought by their restorative justice outcome, Barbie demonstrates great strength and compassion in the work she offers.
Lucrezia Spagnolo
Founder and CEO, VESTA Social Innovation Technologies
Lucrezia Spagnolo is the Founder and CEO of VESTA Social Innovation Technologies; a social enterprise that lives at the intersection of gender-based violence, technology, and access to justice.
Lucrezia is on a mission to harness the power of community and technology to lower the barriers to reporting, and to increasing and equalizing access to resources. Her vision is that by ensuring individuals have agency, choice and equal treatment under the law, systemic change can and will occur.
To support survivors, VESTA Community, an online anonymous reporting tool, was created. VESTA Community lowers barriers to reporting and arms local community agencies with an additional tool to empower survivors, respond to and prevent gender-based violence in their communities.
VESTA Community is supported and funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada. Ryerson
University’s Social Ventures and Legal Innovation Zones, Communitech’s Fierce Founders and Tipping the Scales bootcamps, and York University’s ELLA Accelerator have also supported VESTA and Lucrezia’s journey.
Prior to starting VESTA, Lucrezia was an Executive in the international payments industry. Her career spanned 3 countries on 2 continents. She held roles in Sales, FX Dealing, Marketing and Product before becoming the Country Manager of a foreign subsidiary of a Fortune 500 company. Lucrezia’s extensive experience and empathetic leadership made her a sought after leader, often promoted to lead international expansion, business transformation and stem employee attrition.
Lucrezia is a grateful daughter of enterprising immigrant parents and a lover of travel. When she isn’t busy with VESTA, you can probably find her on a hiking trail with her rescued dog enjoying the regenerating beauty of nature.
Lucrezia Spagnolo is the Founder and CEO of VESTA Social Innovation Technologies; a social enterprise that lives at the intersection of gender-based violence, technology, and access to justice.
Lucrezia is on a mission to harness the power of community and technology to lower the barriers to reporting, and to increasing and equalizing access to resources. Her vision is that by ensuring individuals have agency, choice and equal treatment under the law, systemic change can and will occur.
To support survivors, VESTA Community, an online anonymous reporting tool, was created. VESTA Community lowers barriers to reporting and arms local community agencies with an additional tool to empower survivors, respond to and prevent gender-based violence in their communities.
VESTA Community is supported and funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada. Ryerson
University’s Social Ventures and Legal Innovation Zones, Communitech’s Fierce Founders and Tipping the Scales bootcamps, and York University’s ELLA Accelerator have also supported VESTA and Lucrezia’s journey.
Prior to starting VESTA, Lucrezia was an Executive in the international payments industry. Her career spanned 3 countries on 2 continents. She held roles in Sales, FX Dealing, Marketing and Product before becoming the Country Manager of a foreign subsidiary of a Fortune 500 company. Lucrezia’s extensive experience and empathetic leadership made her a sought after leader, often promoted to lead international expansion, business transformation and stem employee attrition.
Lucrezia is a grateful daughter of enterprising immigrant parents and a lover of travel. When she isn’t busy with VESTA, you can probably find her on a hiking trail with her rescued dog enjoying the regenerating beauty of nature.
Susan Lomas
Founder, Me Too Mining Association
Susan is a professional geologist with over 30 years of experience as a consultant in exploration and mining. Her career has included working on projects in over 30 countries for junior exploration firms to operating mines, large consulting firms, and now with the company she started in 2006, Lions Gate Geological Consulting Inc. (LGGC).
In 2018, Susan founded the Me Too Mining Association (MTMA, www.metoomining.com) to start the conversation about sexual violence, sexual harassment, racism, bullying, intimidation and discrimination in the mining and mineral exploration industries and mining impacted communities. MTMA has designed a mining focussed bystander intervention program, DIGGER, to provide guidance on actions to address inappropriate workplace behaviours. Susan was honoured in 2018 to be included in the Women in Mining (UK) 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining.
Susan is a professional geologist with over 30 years of experience in exploration and mining including geological modelling, resource estimation, due diligence reviews and NI 43-101 reporting. Her career has included working at remote sites all over the world, with junior exploration firms to operating mines, large consulting firms, and ultimately the consulting firm she founded in 2006.
Susan founded the Me Too Mining Association to start the conversation about sexual violence, sexual harassment, harassment, bullying, intimidation and discrimination in the mining and mineral exploration industries and mining impacted communities. She was honoured in 2018 to be included in the Women in Mining (UK) 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining.
Susan is a professional geologist with over 30 years of experience as a consultant in exploration and mining. Her career has included working on projects in over 30 countries for junior exploration firms to operating mines, large consulting firms, and now with the company she started in 2006, Lions Gate Geological Consulting Inc. (LGGC).
In 2018, Susan founded the Me Too Mining Association (MTMA, www.metoomining.com) to start the conversation about sexual violence, sexual harassment, racism, bullying, intimidation and discrimination in the mining and mineral exploration industries and mining impacted communities. MTMA has designed a mining focussed bystander intervention program, DIGGER, to provide guidance on actions to address inappropriate workplace behaviours. Susan was honoured in 2018 to be included in the Women in Mining (UK) 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining.
Susan is a professional geologist with over 30 years of experience in exploration and mining including geological modelling, resource estimation, due diligence reviews and NI 43-101 reporting. Her career has included working at remote sites all over the world, with junior exploration firms to operating mines, large consulting firms, and ultimately the consulting firm she founded in 2006.
Susan founded the Me Too Mining Association to start the conversation about sexual violence, sexual harassment, harassment, bullying, intimidation and discrimination in the mining and mineral exploration industries and mining impacted communities. She was honoured in 2018 to be included in the Women in Mining (UK) 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining.
Gola Taraschi-Carr
Co-Founder and Director, Atlantic Restorative Company
Gola Taraschi-Carr is a self-described restorative practitioner with over twenty years of experience in the direct service delivery of restorative approaches and practices in diverse contexts: criminal justice, community-based services, child welfare settings, schools and post secondary environments, political governance, health sectors, and both private and not for profit workplace settings. Gola led the development of the Best Practice Standard for the Restorative Justice Program of the Nova Scotia Department of Justice and has participated in a number of innovative initiatives such as the development of restorative approaches in closed custody facilities, therapeutic court environments, group home settings for youth, neighbourhood circle projects, and community conversation processes related to renewable energy initiatives. Currently, Gola is focusing on the use and application of restorative processes in Human Rights and Equity matters and is thinking deeply about systemic discrimination, safety, intersectionality and the critical need for a victim and survivor centered and trauma informed approach in cases of sexual violence. Gola is a co-founder of Atlantic Restorative Company (www.arcworks.ca) and is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Gola Taraschi-Carr is a self-described restorative practitioner with over twenty years of experience in the direct service delivery of restorative approaches and practices in diverse contexts: criminal justice, community-based services, child welfare settings, schools and post secondary environments, political governance, health sectors, and both private and not for profit workplace settings. Gola led the development of the Best Practice Standard for the Restorative Justice Program of the Nova Scotia Department of Justice and has participated in a number of innovative initiatives such as the development of restorative approaches in closed custody facilities, therapeutic court environments, group home settings for youth, neighbourhood circle projects, and community conversation processes related to renewable energy initiatives. Currently, Gola is focusing on the use and application of restorative processes in Human Rights and Equity matters and is thinking deeply about systemic discrimination, safety, intersectionality and the critical need for a victim and survivor centered and trauma informed approach in cases of sexual violence. Gola is a co-founder of Atlantic Restorative Company (www.arcworks.ca) and is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Brent Barootes
President & CEO, Partnership Group – Sponsorship Specialists®
Brent Barootes is President and CEO of the Partnership Group – Sponsorship Specialists®, a
national sponsorship marketing consulting firm. In the past 30+ years Brent has worked directly
or indirectly with many large, medium and small non-profits, charities, municipalities,
conferences, provincial and national sport organizations, Canadian brands, corporations, small
and medium businesses as well as sport and recreation departments, and professional sports
teams, to develop, audit, enhance, design, and build effective sponsorship marketing programs
for them.
In addition to his role directly with the charitable sector as a Director of Development, his
tenure of a decade in the sport marketing industry with two NHL franchise properties combined
with his role on several non profit Boards, Brent is recognized as a thought leader and pioneer
in the sponsorship, fundraising and experiential marketing sectors in Canada.
Brent is also the author of Amazon.ca’s #1 Best seller in the Nonprofit Marketing and
Communications category; Reality Check – Straight Talk about Sponsorship Marketing. Brent is
a regular speaker at conferences and conventions as well as a TEDx presenter on “Busting the
Work-Life Balance Myth”.
Brent lives with his wife and 15-year-old daughter in Nanaimo BC.
Brent Barootes is President and CEO of the Partnership Group – Sponsorship Specialists®, a
national sponsorship marketing consulting firm. In the past 30+ years Brent has worked directly
or indirectly with many large, medium and small non-profits, charities, municipalities,
conferences, provincial and national sport organizations, Canadian brands, corporations, small
and medium businesses as well as sport and recreation departments, and professional sports
teams, to develop, audit, enhance, design, and build effective sponsorship marketing programs
for them.
In addition to his role directly with the charitable sector as a Director of Development, his
tenure of a decade in the sport marketing industry with two NHL franchise properties combined
with his role on several non profit Boards, Brent is recognized as a thought leader and pioneer
in the sponsorship, fundraising and experiential marketing sectors in Canada.
Brent is also the author of Amazon.ca’s #1 Best seller in the Nonprofit Marketing and
Communications category; Reality Check – Straight Talk about Sponsorship Marketing. Brent is
a regular speaker at conferences and conventions as well as a TEDx presenter on “Busting the
Work-Life Balance Myth”.
Brent lives with his wife and 15-year-old daughter in Nanaimo BC.
Nermin Karim
Restorative Response Program Manager, North Shore Restorative Justice Society
Nermin Karim graduated from UBC Law with a specialization in Social Justice. She is grateful for her two years of involvement with the Jane Doe Network that significantly impacted her learnings around violence against women. Her opportunities with the Rise Women’s Legal Centre, Atira Legal Advocacy and articling position with West Coast LEAF have all contributed to her current intersectional perspective. For the past two years, she has been the Restorative Response Program (RRP) Manager at North Shore Restorative Justice Society where they receive a wide assortment of files diverted from the police including sexual assault. The goal in the RRP program is to empower victims with choice and voice in the process, and provide offenders an opportunity to understand the impacts of their actions, make amends in whatever way is possible, and prevent future re-offending.
Nermin Karim graduated from UBC Law with a specialization in Social Justice. She is grateful for her two years of involvement with the Jane Doe Network that significantly impacted her learnings around violence against women. Her opportunities with the Rise Women’s Legal Centre, Atira Legal Advocacy and articling position with West Coast LEAF have all contributed to her current intersectional perspective. For the past two years, she has been the Restorative Response Program (RRP) Manager at North Shore Restorative Justice Society where they receive a wide assortment of files diverted from the police including sexual assault. The goal in the RRP program is to empower victims with choice and voice in the process, and provide offenders an opportunity to understand the impacts of their actions, make amends in whatever way is possible, and prevent future re-offending.
Dr. Kelli Palfy
Registered Psychologist
In 2016 Dr. Palfy obtained her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Alberta. She conducted her doctoral research examining the reasons why males do not commonly disclose sexual abuse. She was well-prepared to research this topic based on her prior profession in law enforcement. Prior to becoming a psychologist, Dr. Palfy was a respected member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and spent her career focused on sex crimes investigations. For four years she specialized in the sexual victimization of children globally. Here she gained experience in identifying the sophisticated grooming tactics used by perpetrators.
Dr. Palfy brings a unique combination of professional experiences and perspective to her practice. She is now a trained trauma therapist and public speaker. As a private practitioner, she works with male survivors of sexual abuse, as well as first responders and couples. She is trained in the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Outside of her professional life she is an avid outdoor adventurer, enjoying hiking, cycling, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. She treasures her time with good friends and her pets.
In 2016 Dr. Palfy obtained her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Alberta. She conducted her doctoral research examining the reasons why males do not commonly disclose sexual abuse. She was well-prepared to research this topic based on her prior profession in law enforcement. Prior to becoming a psychologist, Dr. Palfy was a respected member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and spent her career focused on sex crimes investigations. For four years she specialized in the sexual victimization of children globally. Here she gained experience in identifying the sophisticated grooming tactics used by perpetrators.
Dr. Palfy brings a unique combination of professional experiences and perspective to her practice. She is now a trained trauma therapist and public speaker. As a private practitioner, she works with male survivors of sexual abuse, as well as first responders and couples. She is trained in the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Outside of her professional life she is an avid outdoor adventurer, enjoying hiking, cycling, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding. She treasures her time with good friends and her pets.
Dr. Donna Kotsopoulos
Secretary General, Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada
Dr. Donna Kotsopoulos is the Secretary General for Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada, an organization devoted to the mentorship and advancement of women leaders in post-secondary institutions. She is a professor at Huron at Western. She also serves as the co-director of the Province of Ontario, Ministry of Education, Mathematics Knowledge Network and the co-President of the Board of Amabile Choirs of London, Canada. Throughout her career, across her various roles, she as worked actively to support equity, diversity, and inclusion in education and in the workplace. Her contributions to the post-secondary sector have been recognized with numerous awards including the prestigious Fields Fellow from the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences, an Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations Teaching Award, and more recently a John and Gail MacNaughton Prize for Teaching Excellence. Her hobbies include listening to podcasts and traditional Greek cooking. She also loves to write for pleasure.
Dr. Donna Kotsopoulos is the Secretary General for Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada, an organization devoted to the mentorship and advancement of women leaders in post-secondary institutions. She is a professor at Huron at Western. She also serves as the co-director of the Province of Ontario, Ministry of Education, Mathematics Knowledge Network and the co-President of the Board of Amabile Choirs of London, Canada. Throughout her career, across her various roles, she as worked actively to support equity, diversity, and inclusion in education and in the workplace. Her contributions to the post-secondary sector have been recognized with numerous awards including the prestigious Fields Fellow from the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences, an Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations Teaching Award, and more recently a John and Gail MacNaughton Prize for Teaching Excellence. Her hobbies include listening to podcasts and traditional Greek cooking. She also loves to write for pleasure.
Greg Gilhooly
Senior Executive, Lawyer, Author
Greg is a graduate of Princeton University and the University of Toronto Law School. He was a successful corporate lawyer and senior business executive, a man who could seemingly succeed at the highest levels with little effort. Yet there was something about Greg that nobody could see, a secret that he had been keeping for decades. Greg was also a victim and survivor of sexual abuse at the hands of Graham James, one of the sporting world’s most notorious child sexual abusers, a man who had also abused Sheldon Kennedy and Theo Fleury, among others.
Greg’s story has been featured in national and international media. He makes regular media appearances on the subject of sexual abuse generally, and has testified before the Canadian Parliamentary House Standing Committee on Justice and the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs. He broke and told the story of Graham James’s pardon, which led to immediate changes to Canadian pardon and parole laws.
Several psychologists have called Greg a “highly functioning victim” who, because of his intellectual abilities and legal training, has the rare ability to provide a detailed and thorough perspective on the emotional and psychological impact of abuse, while also addressing the relevant issues and principles at play within our legal system and our society.
Greg is a graduate of Princeton University and the University of Toronto Law School. He was a successful corporate lawyer and senior business executive, a man who could seemingly succeed at the highest levels with little effort. Yet there was something about Greg that nobody could see, a secret that he had been keeping for decades. Greg was also a victim and survivor of sexual abuse at the hands of Graham James, one of the sporting world’s most notorious child sexual abusers, a man who had also abused Sheldon Kennedy and Theo Fleury, among others.
Greg’s story has been featured in national and international media. He makes regular media appearances on the subject of sexual abuse generally, and has testified before the Canadian Parliamentary House Standing Committee on Justice and the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs. He broke and told the story of Graham James’s pardon, which led to immediate changes to Canadian pardon and parole laws.
Several psychologists have called Greg a “highly functioning victim” who, because of his intellectual abilities and legal training, has the rare ability to provide a detailed and thorough perspective on the emotional and psychological impact of abuse, while also addressing the relevant issues and principles at play within our legal system and our society.
Dr. Carrie Bourassa
Dr. Carrie Bourassa, is the Scientific Director of the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health (IIPH) and a Professor, Community Health & Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. She is an adjunct Professor in the Faculties of Education and Kinesiology & Health Studies at the University of Regina and is the Nominated Principal Investigator for the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) funded Morning Star Lodge established in 2010, as well as for the recently CFI-funded Cultural Safety, Evaluation, Training and Research lab that will be built by the summer of 2021, hosted at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.
Dr. Bourassa has nearly 20 years’ experience as a professor in the field of Indigenous health studies across four different Universities. Through her role as Scientific Director of IIPH, she leads the advancement of a national health research agenda to improve and promote the health of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada. Dr. Bourassa has been recently appointed (2020) as the Indigenous engagement lead for the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force and the Indigenous lead for the Rapid Response team, Saskatchewan Health Authority. Dr. Bourassa is Métis and belongs to the Riel Métis Council of Regina Inc. (RMCR, Local #34).
Dr. Bourassa has nearly 20 years’ experience as a professor in the field of Indigenous health studies across four different Universities. Through her role as Scientific Director of IIPH, she leads the advancement of a national health research agenda to improve and promote the health of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada. Dr. Bourassa has been recently appointed (2020) as the Indigenous engagement lead for the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force and the Indigenous lead for the Rapid Response team, Saskatchewan Health Authority. Dr. Bourassa is Métis and belongs to the Riel Métis Council of Regina Inc. (RMCR, Local #34).
The Honourable Joanne Bernard
President & CEO, Easter Seals Nova Scotia and former Nova Scotia Minister of Community Services
Joanne Bernard has been building communities for over 20 years in Nova Scotia. In 2002, Joanne established the Margeurite Centre, the only residential facility for women recovering from addictions and abuse in Nova Scotia.
In 2005, she was tasked to lead Alice Housing, which offers second stage housing for women and children leaving abusive relationships. In 2008, she developed Healing the Bruises, the only
interventionist therapy program in Atlantic Canada for child witnesses of domestic violence.
Ms. Bernard’s strong leadership and commitment to Alice Housing, led to numerous national awards for program delivery. Most notably multiple wins for the much coveted Donner Award. Ms. Bernard was awarded the Peter F Drucker award for Non Profit Management in Canada in 2011.
Elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2013, Ms. Bernard was appointed to the Executive Council of Nova Scotia where she served as Minister of Community Services, Housing Nova Scotia, Disabled Persons Commission and Advisory Council for the Status of Women. She served as Member of the Legislative Assembly for Dartmouth North from 2013 to 2017.
Ms. Bernard was the first openly gay MLA/Cabinet Minister in the history of Nova Scotia government.
Ms. Bernard is currently President and CEO of Easter Seals Nova Scotia and has increased both the physical footprint and program capacity of that organization further positioning the organization as a leader in program delivery for persons with disabilities in Nova Scotia.
Ms. Bernard holds of Bachelor of Arts (Political Science with Distinction) from Mount Saint Vincent University, Masters of Arts (Political Science) from Acadia University and a Certificate of Leadership from Saint Mary’s University.
In 2009, she received the Holly House Award for her work on the issue of homelessness and in 2015 received the Inspire Award for her Public Service.
Ms. Bernard currently holds positions on the Board of Governors, Alumni Association of Mount Saint Vincent University and is a Director with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board.
Joanne is married to Annette, mother to grown son Taylor and proud owner of 4 rescued cats and her greatest joy is her granddaughter Kalliope (Ka-li-o-pee), born in 2018.
Joanne Bernard has been building communities for over 20 years in Nova Scotia. In 2002, Joanne established the Margeurite Centre, the only residential facility for women recovering from addictions and abuse in Nova Scotia.
In 2005, she was tasked to lead Alice Housing, which offers second stage housing for women and children leaving abusive relationships. In 2008, she developed Healing the Bruises, the only
interventionist therapy program in Atlantic Canada for child witnesses of domestic violence.
Ms. Bernard’s strong leadership and commitment to Alice Housing, led to numerous national awards for program delivery. Most notably multiple wins for the much coveted Donner Award. Ms. Bernard was awarded the Peter F Drucker award for Non Profit Management in Canada in 2011.
Elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2013, Ms. Bernard was appointed to the Executive Council of Nova Scotia where she served as Minister of Community Services, Housing Nova Scotia, Disabled Persons Commission and Advisory Council for the Status of Women. She served as Member of the Legislative Assembly for Dartmouth North from 2013 to 2017.
Ms. Bernard was the first openly gay MLA/Cabinet Minister in the history of Nova Scotia government.
Ms. Bernard is currently President and CEO of Easter Seals Nova Scotia and has increased both the physical footprint and program capacity of that organization further positioning the organization as a leader in program delivery for persons with disabilities in Nova Scotia.
Ms. Bernard holds of Bachelor of Arts (Political Science with Distinction) from Mount Saint Vincent University, Masters of Arts (Political Science) from Acadia University and a Certificate of Leadership from Saint Mary’s University.
In 2009, she received the Holly House Award for her work on the issue of homelessness and in 2015 received the Inspire Award for her Public Service.
Ms. Bernard currently holds positions on the Board of Governors, Alumni Association of Mount Saint Vincent University and is a Director with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board.
Joanne is married to Annette, mother to grown son Taylor and proud owner of 4 rescued cats and her greatest joy is her granddaughter Kalliope (Ka-li-o-pee), born in 2018.
Sara Forte
Founder and Partner, Forte Law
Sara Forte is an employment lawyer and founder of Forte Law, with offices in BC and Alberta. After decades of representing clients in human rights claims and observing the harm caused by workplace sexual harassment, in 2020 Forte Law launched StandUP Teams ™, an innovative respectful workplace program designed for progressive organizations to combat sexual harassment, racism and other forms of disrespect at work. StandUP Teams™ training includes bystander training, which is an emerging best practice in harassment training and gives everyone at work a role in a culture of respect. Sara has a passion for educating and empowering her clients and the public to improve workplaces, and is a frequent speaker and writer on work-related legal issues and entrepreneurship.
Sara Forte is an employment lawyer and founder of Forte Law, with offices in BC and Alberta. After decades of representing clients in human rights claims and observing the harm caused by workplace sexual harassment, in 2020 Forte Law launched StandUP Teams ™, an innovative respectful workplace program designed for progressive organizations to combat sexual harassment, racism and other forms of disrespect at work. StandUP Teams™ training includes bystander training, which is an emerging best practice in harassment training and gives everyone at work a role in a culture of respect. Sara has a passion for educating and empowering her clients and the public to improve workplaces, and is a frequent speaker and writer on work-related legal issues and entrepreneurship.
Leah Martin
Service Coordinator, Community Justice Initiatives
Leah works as a Service Coordinator at Community Justice Initiatives in Kitchener Ontario – a non-profit organization that uses the principles and practices of restorative justice to respond to the needs of the community. She holds a masters in Dispute Resolution from the University of Victoria and has spent the bulk of her career working in the non-profit sector. She holds a particular interest in exploring the offerings of restorative justice in the movement to end gendered violence.
Leah works as a Service Coordinator at Community Justice Initiatives in Kitchener Ontario – a non-profit organization that uses the principles and practices of restorative justice to respond to the needs of the community. She holds a masters in Dispute Resolution from the University of Victoria and has spent the bulk of her career working in the non-profit sector. She holds a particular interest in exploring the offerings of restorative justice in the movement to end gendered violence.
Peggy Killeen, CFRE
Development Consultant
Peggy Killeen, CFRE, is a development consultant with over 30 years in nonprofit leadership. Her motto is “planning to change the world for the better”. Peggy’s career began in South Africa, working for grassroots advocacy, human rights and community organizations, followed by fieldwork for international agencies. In Canada her focus has been on fundraising; her mission to empower organisations to build their capacity and sustainability. Peggy has a long association with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) as an active member and volunteer and is proud to have been given the 2020 Friend of CAGP Award, acknowledging contributions which have a national impact on strategic charitable gift planning. She currently works for the CAGP Foundation as its Development Director and is a Senior Consultant for PGgrowth, a national consulting firm focused on gift planning.
Peggy Killeen, CFRE, is a development consultant with over 30 years in nonprofit leadership. Her motto is “planning to change the world for the better”. Peggy’s career began in South Africa, working for grassroots advocacy, human rights and community organizations, followed by fieldwork for international agencies. In Canada her focus has been on fundraising; her mission to empower organisations to build their capacity and sustainability. Peggy has a long association with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) as an active member and volunteer and is proud to have been given the 2020 Friend of CAGP Award, acknowledging contributions which have a national impact on strategic charitable gift planning. She currently works for the CAGP Foundation as its Development Director and is a Senior Consultant for PGgrowth, a national consulting firm focused on gift planning.
Aakhil Lakhani
Aakhil Lakhani is an anti-oppression educator and queer feminist therapist working in amiskowaciywaskahikan. As a former so-called "aid worker" with NGOs such as Engineers Without Borders, they have joined the Total System Failure project adding to voices calling out the misogyny, racism, and classism embedded in the non-profit sector. Their activism currently involves running an inclusive Muslim prayer space to dismantle systems of oppression within Islam and combat islamophobia, and efforts to end sexualized violence.
Cindy Wagman, MBA, CFRE
Cindy Wagman is the President and Founder of The Good Partnership, a values-driven, social-justice informed consultancy that is working to unlock the potential of small Canadian charities through fundraising and systems support. Cindy became a Certified Fundraising Executive in 2009 and received her MBA from the Rotman School at the University of Toronto in 2013. Cindy has presented for AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals), CanadaHelps, CharityVillage, the Centre for Social Innovation, and the city of York Region, and has taught fundraising at Humber College. She is the host of The Small Nonprofit podcast, Canada’s #1 podcast for charities.
Alana Robert
Litigation Associate, McCarthy Tétrault and Founder, Justice for Women Manitoba
Alana Robert is a Manitoba Métis lawyer who works as a Litigation Associate at McCarthy Tétrault in Toronto. Alana’s advocacy focuses on combating gender-based violence and violence against MMIWG2S. She founded Justice For Women Manitoba, developed a toolkit through Equal Voice to equip youth with strategies to end gender-based violence in their communities, and has testified on her work to the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women. Alana most recently completed a discussion paper for the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund on using the legal system to advance equality for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Her work in this area has been recognized by the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Person’s Case and the Indspire Métis Youth Award. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto.
Alana Robert is a Manitoba Métis lawyer who works as a Litigation Associate at McCarthy Tétrault in Toronto. Alana’s advocacy focuses on combating gender-based violence and violence against MMIWG2S. She founded Justice For Women Manitoba, developed a toolkit through Equal Voice to equip youth with strategies to end gender-based violence in their communities, and has testified on her work to the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women. Alana most recently completed a discussion paper for the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund on using the legal system to advance equality for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Her work in this area has been recognized by the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Person’s Case and the Indspire Métis Youth Award. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto.
The 2020 NDOC was on November 26th. You can catch the recordings here.
Because one in four women in fundraising experience sexual harrassment. Join us in making change.