A Start to Becoming an Ally

Admittedly, years ago I found the term ‘white privilege’ triggering. For me, the word came into theforefront with the death of George Floyd. I still remember receiving a phone call from a dear friend whowas in tears. She called me and said, “I’m so sorry” and I could hear her voice breaking. I rememberhearing her…

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What’s in a Name?

What’s in a name? Well, according to Juliet of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet not much. “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Juliet attempts to convince Romeo that a name is simply a conventional standard with no real meaning behind it. Yet, their familial names are…

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Merry Christmas at the Workplace

Can We Say Merry Christmas at the Workplace Anymore? During this time of year I always get asked about hosting Christmas parties in the workplace; decorating the workplace with stockings, Santa and putting candy canes out into candy dishes. I know too many parents who take offence to Winter Celebrations at school rather than seeing…

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The Emotional Price of Being BIPOC

The Emotional Price of Being BIPOC My background lies in immigration and I hold two degrees. I also had a successful relocation and settlement company. I sit on two Boards. I began speaking professionally in 2008 and it’s my sole source of income. I am passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion and attendees who hear…

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Psychological Safety and Me

Psychological Safety and Me After my second maternity leave, I returned to my part-time position with the provincial government. Back then, I knew it was a rarity to be able to work flexibly and part-time. Additionally, my old boss had very recently accepted a new position in London, England so I was weary of who…

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Immigrating from South Africa

I met Andrea Davis initially at the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (Calgary Chapter) of which I’m currently serving my third term as President. Andrea, originally from South Africa, is a survivor of the Costa Concordia tragedy of 2012. I consider Andrea an esteemed colleague and dear friend. Such a dear friend that when she…

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Feelings of Isolation and Inadequacy

Feelings of Isolation and Inadequacy are Real for Women in Male Dominated Occupations Feelings of inadequacy and isolation are very real for women working in traditionally male dominated sectors. In honour of International Women’s Day where this year’s theme was #ChoosetoChallenge it’s important that we all challenge the status quo by ensuring everyone is seen,…

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Why do Sikhs wear Turbans?

Why do Sikhs wear Turbans? Gurprit K. Randhawa Since the time of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak, the turban has been a key, distinguishing article of a Sikh’s identity and faith. The turban holds significant historical, social, and spiritual significance for Sikhs. During the birth and development of the Sikh faith from the 15th…

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Skin Deep

This holiday season finds us wearing masks due to Covid19. Now more than ever remember that underneath all of those masks we truly are all the same.

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