ACE and Co: Full STEAM Ahead

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.

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

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!

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

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.

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

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!

Meet Chikodili P Odinakachukwu, a dynamic Speaker, Advocate, and Developer with an Honors Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics Engineering. As a Vehicle Infotainment Developer at General Motors of Canada, she leads product engineering efforts to create safe and reliable software.

Beyond her engineering role, Chikodili is deeply fascinated by psychology and finance, and she explores how these fields intersect to positively impact lives. Her journey in blending engineering, technology, and psychology promises unique insights and inspiration.

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

Meet Ross Cadastre, the founder and CEO of Innovative Talent Solutions Inc., encompassing ITS Global and Kontingence Recruitment, which address recruitment challenges in Canada. He also founded Lyenn Dous in Saint Lucia, providing back-office services to North American tech start-ups.

A champion for under-represented individuals, Ross created www.bipocjobs.ca, a leading job board for BIPOC talent in North America, and serves as Board Chair of the Black Business Professional Association (BBPA). His work has earned him recognition, including membership in the Forbes Business Council and being named a “Top Staffing Leader” to watch in 2023.

Ross is committed to empowering black businesses and professionals, continually influencing the recruitment industry through his leadership.

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

Meet Jennifer Ladipo, an Industrial Engineer who graduated from Dalhousie University. She is passionate about guiding young women into the creative realm of STEM. Combining her love for mathematics and writing, she founded thestemgirl.com, an initiative that encourages young girls to embrace both their femininity and scientific interests through storytelling. Jennifer has published four fiction books and one non-fiction book, continually finding innovative ways to illustrate the excitement of STEM through adventurous narratives. Additionally, as the National Program Manager at Actua, she champions the engagement of priority youth audiences and oversees the national delivery of programs.

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

Meet D’Andre Wilson-Ihejirika, an engineer, educator and social entrepreneur with a P.Eng, PMP and LSSB. Join us for an inspiring conversation about her journey pursuing an education and career in engineering as she focuses on better understanding the alignment of student experience to career pathways for underrepresented groups.

Interested in watching this podcast in a video format? Click here to watch the Youtube video!