SpeakUP! International Inc.

Velma Morgan, a distinguished educator, policy-maker, and chair of Operation Black Vote Canada, is a treasure trove of insights from years of advocating for gender and cultural representation in government. She offers a unique perspective on the critical role of intentional efforts in facilitating inclusion for the black community in government spaces.

Velma's noteworthy journey extends beyond policy-making. She shares her exhilarating experiences, from creating pavilions for Latin American and Caribbean countries to receiving prestigious awards like the Municipal World Award and the Bob Marley Humanitarian Award. Her unwavering commitment to community empowerment shines through as she discusses her work with the 1834 Initiative and a sports plan that includes women. Listen in, and you'll not only be informed but also inspired to make a tangible impact within your communities.

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We invite you on a journey with us and our esteemed guest, Dr Kathy Hogarth, Associate Vice President of Global Strategy at Wilford Laurier University. Dr Hogarth brings her personal experiences, academic prowess and insightful perspectives on how community psychology can be an effective tool in tackling the systemic issues of racism and social justice. 

Now, imagine navigating the treacherous terrains of racism and nationalism on an international scale. Hard, isn't it? Yet, that's exactly what we're diving into. We delve into the complex dynamics of racism within international institutions and the inherent challenges in dismantling them. Stirring the pot further, we discuss a recent decision by the Premier of Alberta to do away with diversity, equity, and inclusion offices at public universities. But amidst the turmoil, there's hope. Dr Hogarth spotlights the power of love and community support as the beacon of change, regardless of the adversities faced. Join us on this path of enlightenment as we further explore the impact of family, recognition of unsung heroes, and the transformative power of love. We give you Dr. Kathy Hogarth!

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What do you get when you combine a passionate advocate for diversity, a skilled business coach, and a dedicated philanthropist? You get Alex Ihama, our esteemed guest, on this transformative episode of SpeakUP! International. Alex, the executive director of the Canadian Congress on Inclusion, Diversity, and Workplace Equity, takes us on a profound journey, exploring the challenges and triumphs of addressing critical societal issues such as racism, discrimination, and mental health.

Our conversation with Alex paints a vivid picture of the complexities faced by organizations striving for diversity. He opens up about his work with a major organization that received a $300 million grant but with a glaring lack of diversity. His recounting of refunding clients who weren't an ideal fit emphasizes his unshakeable commitment to integrity and unity. Alex doesn't shy away from discussing the generational challenges born out of colonialism that impact unifying communities. But it's not all struggles and challenges. Alex shares delightful anecdotes about going viral with a dancing video and his mother's incredible philanthropy that continues to inspire his work.

Rounding off this enlightening episode, Alex takes us into the heart of his coaching framework that focuses on psychology, philosophy, spirituality, and physiology. We gain insights into his innovative approach to overcoming adversity and his unwavering belief in the power of self and community. He puts a spotlight on his School of Greatness, a place where individuals can discover their purpose and make an impact. And wait until you hear about his ambitious goal of educating and inspiring 5 million people by 2030. So, get ready to be inspired, educated, and moved in our conversation with Alex Ihama. Tune in now and join us on this thought-provoking journey.

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What if embracing body positivity and menstrual cycle awareness became a norm rather than an exception? What if every woman felt empowered, loved and accepted in her skin? When Jesica Medellin  had her daughter's first menstruation as a catalyst, she set out to flip the script on this narrative, inspiring women globally with her forthcoming book, "First Moon."

Join us in this heartfelt conversation as Jesica shares the motivation behind her book, a beautiful ensemble of letters, art, and poetry. Born out of love for her daughter, "First Moon" aims to empower young girls to establish a positive relationship with their menstrual cycles. We journey through Jessica's admirable advocacy work, from empowering Hispanic students in Ogden, Utah, to fearlessly stepping away from a job that clashed with her values. We also spotlight her prolific influence on educational institutions through her extensive experience in grant management.

Throughout the episode, Jesica accentuates the importance of creating safe spaces for women to share and learn about their bodies. Delving into her unique teaching methods, she emphasizes the need for a future-focused education that fosters problem-solvers and creative thinkers. We explore her role in the Utah Humanities Bookfest, celebrating the joy of inspiring others, and conclude with her compelling advice: "Let it be easy" and "Do it anyway." This episode champions love, acceptance, and the power of community, underlining Jessica’s belief that positive change is within everyone's reach. Join us and be a part of this empowering conversation.
You can reach Jesica Medellin via her website: https://www.jmmedellin.com/

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Are you ready to challenge the status quo? Our esteemed guest, educator and advocate for equity and diversity, Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad, brings us on an enlightening journey through the complexities of fostering equity and diversity in education. With his strategic and meticulous approach, he highlights the importance of self-care amidst the arduous task of disassembling systemic barriers while simultaneously building relationships, trust, and cooperation among various stakeholders to cultivate a more inclusive environment.

Strengthening relationships in education, particularly for students from minoritized backgrounds, can reshape their academic experiences. With the significance of identity formation at the forefront, we discuss the critical need for greater diversity among educators, as well as a curriculum that genuinely reflects the histories and realities of minoritized communities. Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad, generously shares insights from his personal journey to becoming an advocate for equity, providing a deeper understanding of the hurdles students encounter to access opportunities.

Finally, we draw back the curtains on social justice education and daily activism. Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad, puts a firm emphasis on the distinction between equality and equity, pushing for the need to address systemic barriers and gatekeeping practices head-on. He shares his inspiring leadership journey and unwavering commitment to promoting equity, providing a perspective that benefits everyone. Don't miss out on this riveting episode as we explore the facets of equity and diversity in education with Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad,

Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad, invites you to visit the website, www.yaaace.com. You can explore the various programs offered by the Youth Association for Academics, Athletics, and Character Education to learn more about their impactful incentives. 

Please visit Dr. Eizadirad's website, www.edication.org, where many of Dr. Ardavan's writings and things are open access. Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad, can be reached via LinkedIn. 

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Imagine stepping into the vibrant, pulsating world of fashion at the tender age of 13 and carving your way to the top. That's the riveting journey of our guest, Kendra Francis, a Toronto-based fashionista who's built a name for herself in the luxury apparel space with her label, Frankie. Kendra unveils the threads of her journey, recounting tales of sewing lessons from her father and uncles and the gruelling yet rewarding journey at Ryerson University that honed her skills and imbibed in her a relentless pursuit for perfection.

The runway of Kendra's career hasn't been without bumps. She was the sole Black female designer showcasing during Toronto Fashion Week, a distinction met with unnecessary backlash from the FDCC. But Kendra, being the powerhouse she is, tackled these hurdles with creative strategies and an undying spirit. She divulged how she stirred up buzz for her off-site shows, proving her resilience in facing adversities.

From the triumph of opening her own boutique on Queen Street West to the joy of launching her children's line, Petits Genoux, Kendra's journey is a testament to her versatility. The episode takes a profound turn as she reflects on the impact of motherhood on her work. We also delve into the evolution of her brand, Frankie, with its timeless style and unique appeal. To wrap up, Kendra gives us wisdom on instilling confidence in others and creating a positive aura. Get ready to explore the riveting world of fashion, resilience, and creativity with Kendra Francis!

To receive more information about Kendra Francis, please visit her website: https://www.petitsgenoux.com/ 

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Ever wondered how a love of poetry can evolve into a successful career in the world of publishing? Yolanda T Marshall, a celebrated Canadian author, gives us a glimpse into her fascinating journey. She started writing poetry at the age of eight, which led her to self-publish her own book in 2008. This leap of faith launched her into the corporate world of publishing. Yolanda's astute understanding of the publishing process gained through tireless self-education, has been instrumental in her success. She's not just an accomplished author; she's also a recipient of the My People Award from the Blackhurst Cultural Center and the Loop Award from Loop News.

Her family and cultural heritage deeply influence Yolanda's literary works. She has a unique way of connecting nations through food, evident in her writings. One of her prominent works, "C Is For Carnival," is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture. The anecdotes she shares about her father's side of the family give us a glimpse into how they've shaped her as an author. Moreover, she advocates for Caribbean authors and has been making her voice heard through her podcast, Caribbean Storytime.

Not just an author, Yolanda is a passionate cook and a podcaster. Cooking has been an integral part of her life since she was 11 years old. She shares how she learned to cook traditional Kenyan and West African dishes and how she's passing on her love of cooking to her son. Connect with Yolanda and join us in this enriching conversation that celebrates joy, culture, art, and the power of words

To contact Yolanda T Marshall, visit her website at https://www.ytmarshall.com/

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Get ready to immerse yourself in a gripping conversation with the financial maestro, Katrice Bent, the brilliant founder of Katrice Justice! This episode shines a spotlight on this powerhouse woman, who has devoted her life to empowering people to harness their finances and use money as a tool to achieve their dreams. Katrice doesn't just talk; she walks the walk, having purchased her first house at the tender age of 22. Through this episode, we explore her inspiring journey, the philosophy behind her successful online platform as a financial knowledge hub, and the personalized services she offers, including social media content creation and speaking engagements.

Do you ever wonder how a financial advisor can transform lives? Katrice opens up about the transformational stories of personal struggles and victories she has witnessed in her career. Get to know her personally as she shares her favourite life-guiding quote, her passions, and her love for her grandmother's delectable cooking. Katrice also provides insights on how she leverages her skills to make a positive impact and guides people to make the best financial decisions. Toward the end, Katrice extends an invitation to her services and shares tips on following SpeakUP! International on social media. Join us and acquire the inspiration and knowledge you need to secure your financial future!

Here is Katrice (Bent) Justice's website: https://www.katricejustice.com/

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What does it mean to carry the 'fire' of resistance and how does it shape our paths? Today, we welcome the extraordinary Dr. Akua Benjamin, a luminary in the world of social work and a relentless activist. She mesmerizes us with the compelling narrative of her family's history of resistance, which has been the backbone of her remarkable journey. The inspiring story of her mother's act of defiance — throwing a burning bundle of coal into a colonial man's cane field — is a testament to courage and resilience, which has stirred Dr. Benjamin to continually challenge norms and champion change.

Dr. Benjamin enlightens us about the long-standing struggles faced by black individuals within the education system. We delve into her tireless effort to spark institutional change within these structures, and spotlight the critical work done by organizations like the Organization of Parents of Black Children (OPPC) and Wondering Spirit Survival School in countering these challenges. We also delve into the historical role of resistance as a survival tool for black people in Canada, painting a vivid picture of their indomitable spirit.

Finally, we traverse the significant landmarks of Dr. Benjamin’s activism journey. Dreams, she mentions, have been instrumental in shaping her path, and we explore her insights on systemic issues in education and social work. We discuss the collective effort and community support required to drive away racism, emphasizing the value of tackling social work from a systemic perspective. Our conversation culminates in a discussion on potential collaborations, stepping stones to future discussions, and the ways to connect with Dr. Benjamin. Join us on Speak Up Exclamation Point International as we traverse this enriching dialogue and ignite collective action.

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Part One:
Imagine, a young man leaves his home country, sets foot on unfamiliar terrain, and over the span of 50 years, becomes an icon of community service, a vanguard for immigrant rights, and an award-winning mental health advocate. That's the captivating journey of Kingsley Gilliam, our guest today. Born in Jamaica, Kingsley arrived in Canada in 1969, and dedicated his life to professional and community service, influencing policy changes and advocating for those affected by alterations to immigration regulations. 

Kingsley's tale is not merely about his tireless advocacy, but also about his personal battles with systemic challenges. Listen as he recounts the audacious story of his entrance into early childhood education, the obstacles posed by his race and gender, and his relentless pursuit of his dreams. His boldness and perseverance are lessons for us all, especially for those facing societal hurdles and prejudices. 

But Kingsley’s journey doesn't end here. Hear about his illustrious career in mental health advocacy, his invaluable community service, and his contributions to education and mentorship. From receiving a Gold Watch for his service in Sudbury to creating a summer school program in Edmonton, Kingsley's stories embody his commitment to making a difference. He'll share his insights on the importance of self-reliance, pride, and staying true to one's values. Tune in to hear about Kingsley’s journey, a testament to his resilience and unwavering dedication to community service.

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