Connecting the Community

This podcast features Gordon Wilson and Harry Zhang discussing the benefits of Toastmasters, especially the Youth Leadership Program, and how it helps young people develop public speaking and leadership skills.

Harry shares his personal experience and future goals, emphasizing the importance of communication skills for success.

Here's the information on this upcoming (starting March 28th) Youth Leadership program, happening in Richmond Hill. Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program | OnRichmondHill

Check out Toastmasters International

In this interview, Alex Cheng from Blue Door discusses the upcoming Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser, highlighting its importance in supporting homelessness initiatives in Richmond Hill.

The conversation covers event details, fundraising goals, community involvement, and the urgent need for affordable housing.

Please participate in whatever way you can Richmond Hill (Blue Door) - Coldest Night of the Year 2026 Canada

Check out all of the support Blue Door offers Home - Blue Door

In this engaging conversation, Marj Andre interviews Norman Musewe about his memoir 'Sangano', which recounts his life journey from Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to becoming a pediatric cardiologist in Canada.

Norman shares the challenges he faced, including cultural reflections on family, the impact of adversity, struggles with despondency and alcoholism, and ultimately finding faith that transformed his life.

He also discusses the changes in Zimbabwe and his aspirations for a children's hospital, emphasizing the importance of caring for children as the future.

Here's the link to buy the book Amazon.com: Sangano: The Meeting of Things 

Here's Norman's web site Pediatric Cardiologist | Dr. Norman Musewe | Markham

In this engaging conversation, Leah Taylor Roy reflects on her political journey, her community engagement, and the importance of women's representation in politics.

She discusses the challenges women face globally, particularly in authoritarian regimes, and emphasizes the need for more female leadership.

The conversation also touches on the significance of discernment in today's information landscape and concludes with a hopeful vision for peace.

Here's more information and the link to purchase tickets for the March 6th Women who Lead | Liberal Party of Canada

To contact Leah, see her Linkedin profile  Leah Taylor Roy | LinkedIn

In this enlightening conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Sara Jamil, a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, about the significance of Ramadan and the practice of fasting.

Sara explains the origins of Ahmadiyya Islam, the spiritual and physical aspects of fasting, and the communal practices during Ramadan, including Iftar.

The discussion also touches on exemptions from fasting, the importance of self-control, and the reflections that come with the month of Ramadan, culminating in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Sara recommends this for further reading Everything You Need to Know About Ramadan | The Review of Religions

And here is the official website - Ahmadiyya Muslim Community - Al Islam Online

In this conversation, Whitney Hilts discusses the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of older adults within retirement communities.

She emphasizes the LivingWell program at DelManor, which focuses on holistic wellness, lifelong learning, and empowering residents to share their unique skills and experiences.

Whitney advocates for authenticity and choice in aging, highlighting the need for community engagement and social interaction to enhance the quality of life for seniors.

She concludes with a wish for a more loving and inclusive society.

Check out Healthy Activities for Senior Independent Living | Delmanor

In this conversation, Marj Andre interviews David Leyton-Brown, a retired political science professor, discussing various pressing issues including

Leyton-Brown emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking in addressing these complex issues.

In this engaging podcast, Marj Andre interviews Nella Cotrupi, exploring her academic background, political activism, and the evolving cultural landscape of Richmond Hill.

Nella shares her insights on the growing interest in Canadian literature in Italy, the significance of translation, and the impact of cultural heritage on literature.

The conversation also delves into the differences between Canadian and American literature, highlighting the unique immigrant experiences that shape narratives.

Nella's passion for poetry, particularly the works of Carol Shields, is evident as she discusses her translation project and the importance of poetry in contemporary society.

Please click HERE for Nella's book on Northrop Frye 

Here are the literary houses that Nella referenced:

And the professor she mentioned is Joseph Pivato - Wikipedia

In this podcast, Dr. Reza Moridi discusses the historical and current socio-political landscape of Iran, focusing on the Iranian Revolution, the impact of the Iran-Iraq War, the ongoing protests, and the plight of women in Iran.

He emphasizes the need for international support and awareness regarding the Iranian people's struggles against their regime.

To keep to-date, Reza encourages us to follow social media. 

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Anders Lindfors, co-owner of King Henry's Arms and a key member of the Richmond Hill Winter Carnival planning committee.

They discuss the importance of community involvement in the carnival, the various activities and events planned for this year, and how the carnival adapts to changing weather conditions.

Anders shares insights into the volunteer roles and the significance of the carnival as a family-friendly event.

The conversation highlights the carnival's history, its evolution over the years, and the role of local businesses in supporting community events.

His one wish - food security.

Check out the Richmond Hill Winter Carnival, for the schedule of events, signing up to be a volunteer, the photography contest categories or entering the Wing Eating Contest. Richmond Hill Winter Carnival – February 7 & 8, 2026

And check out King Henry's Arms King Henry's Arms – Traditional Pub With Local Microbrews on Tap

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