Meet Jeannette Richards, an award-winning IT professional, mental health advocate, and founder of Be Mentally Motivated. Jeannette’s story begins with her first VIC-20 computer, sparking a lifelong passion for technology that led to a successful career in the financial sector’s IT support and multiple Spotlight Awards for excellence.Jeannette opens up about navigating the realities of living with a mental health diagnosis, breaking down mental health stigma in the Black community, and how her late psychotherapist’s compassion inspired her to pursue an Honours BA in Psychology. She also shares her mission to combine her expertise in technology with mental health advocacy to create inclusive workplaces, safe spaces, and meaningful conversations.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Dr. Colleen Kelley, retired chemistry professor, science communicator, and author of a comic book series making chemistry fun and accessible for kids. Her Emmy-winning PBS short documentary Comic Book Chemistry and TEDx talk Molecular Literacy for Ages 8–108 have inspired audiences around the world.

Through storytelling and humour, Colleen is changing how we teach and think about science. Her mission: to ensure everyone, from children to lifelong learners, can see themselves in the world of chemistry.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Kaleb Laidman, a high school filmmaker and founder of KalKaden Productions—a youth-led production company blending creativity, storytelling, and bold leadership. What began as a passion for performance evolved into a growing team behind internationally recognized promotional films.

Driven by a shared vision with childhood friends, Kaleb is redefining what it means to lead behind the camera, showing that age is no barrier to impact, innovation, and creative direction in the entertainment world.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Sunny and Hasini, high school leaders and co-founders of a global youth-led nonprofit on a mission to empower young women through mentorship, leadership, and community building.Built by girls, for girls, The Pink Stairs is focused on making leadership and innovation more inclusive and accessible. Sunny and Hasini are driving real-world change — from co-authoring global coding workbooks and supporting small businesses to creating spaces where young women can grow, lead, and thrive.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Charles Achampong, best-selling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience across sectors including the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Scotiabank.

Charles unpacks how intentional pauses; through rest, reflection, and purpose, which can transform the way we work, lead, and live. His concept of “failure immunity” is a timely message for students and professionals navigating burnout, and aligns closely with our Avoiding Burnout workshops here at ACE & Co.

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Meet Dr. Marci Klein, a pediatrician, educator, and co-founder of 3DuxDesign. With over 25 years of experience in childhood development and social-emotional health, she’s bringing a fresh approach to STEM education through hands-on, project-based learning.

By weaving together art, culture, and environmental awareness, Dr. Klein empowers young innovators to design solutions for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠here⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Christine Nguyen, a 5th-year Electrical Engineering student at Toronto Metropolitan University, and recipient of the prestigious ACE & Co EmpowerHer Scholarship. In this inspiring interview, Christine shares her journey in engineering, her passion for advocacy and student leadership, and how she balances technical studies with a Minor in Music and Culture.

As President of the Metropolitan Undergraduate Engineering Society and National Councillor with the Canadian Federation of Engineering Students, Christine is committed to amplifying student voices and driving positive change. Tune in to hear how she’s making an impact in the engineering community and beyond.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click ⁠here⁠ to check out the full YouTube video!

Meet Iman Cheema, the first-ever recipient of the prestigious ACE EmpowerHer Scholarship Award!

Iman is a recent Computer Engineering graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) who is passionate about fostering inclusivity in STEAM. As a co-founder of Makers Collective, she co-led the innovative “Full Steam Ahead” program, blending STEM and art through hands-on projects.

Iman also empowers women in engineering by leading the mentorship program for the Women in Engineering student group at TMU, creating a supportive network for future engineers.

Her dedication to inclusivity and inspiring young women is truly remarkable.

Join us in congratulating Iman on her incredible achievements!

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Meet Ferdinand Wilhelm, a 26-year-old originally from Germany who moved to Canada seven years ago to pursue a career in the music industry. With a background in technical work within the audio-visual industry and music studios, Ferdinand has spent the last 4.5 years at Grayson Music as a Studio Technician & Coordinator. His passion for critical thinking and precision work shines through in his daily tasks.

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Meet Dennis Ma, an avid tech enthusiast with a passion for electric cars, artificial intelligence, and robotics. As an electrical engineer who transitioned into software engineering, Dennis has been deeply immersed in the world of cutting-edge technology. His true passion lies in mentoring and inspiring the next generation by sharing his excitement for emerging tech.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click here to check out the full YouTube video!