CCDI is pleased to introduce 'Inclusion Table Talks', a new sub-series of our podcast: Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. This series brings together CCDI's Employer Partners and thought leaders for in-depth discussions on the growing anti-DEI rhetoric and its impact on our collective vision of building a more inclusive Canada. We'll explore what DEIA truly is and isn't, address common misconceptions, and discuss the profound impact DEIA has had and continues to have on workplaces across Canada.

In this episode, Dr. Sara-Jane Finlay joins us to unpack the rising prevalence of anti-DEI rhetoric. She is the Associate Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). We begin by hearing from Dr. Finlay on the landscape of DEI across Canada, and what has set certain companies up for long-term success in this arena. Discussing diversity as an outcome of equitable policies, we explore the government’s role and the impact of the media on public opinion.

We unpack the changing acronym, from DEI to DEIAT, and discuss some of the challenges increasingly associated with this work. Lastly, Dr. Finlay offers some advice on the roles we can each play to build a more inclusive future. Thanks for joining us.

Key Points From This Episode:

• The rise of anti-DEI rhetoric today.
• Introduction and welcome to Dr. Sara-Jane Finlay, Associate Director of DEI at ICBC.
• Dr. Finlay’s analysis of DEI in the Canadian workplace today.
• How long-term strategies have supported the companies that are still prioritizing DEI today.
• Reframing diversity is an outcome of equity.
• The lack of government intervention in this space.
• How the media is shaping public opinion in the US and Canada.
• Navigating anti-DEI rhetoric at ICBC.
• Why the acronym is changing from DEI to DEIAT.
• Common myths and misconceptions around what DEI is truly about.
• Tips on navigating the challenges that are increasingly associated with this work.
• Some of the roles we can each play to build a more inclusive Canada.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Sara-Jane Finlay on LinkedIn
• Equity and Inclusion Office of the University of British Columbia
• Insurance Corporation of British Columbia
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• The Tyranny of Merit
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

As we enter 2025, CCDI is excited to launch Season 4 of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham. In the first episode of the year, we reflect on the challenges we face in diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.

Positive psychologist Kimberley Wakefield joins us to share insights and tips for how to navigate 2025 with good intentions and the skills needed to take care of our mental well-being. We start our conversation by defining positive psychology and how it differs from traditional psychology. Next, we discuss how Barbara Fredrickson’s broaden-and-build theory lays a foundation for understanding the role of positive emotions, considering what changes when we begin to notice and lean into positive moments.

Touching on the power of gratitude, Kimberley shares a strategy for those who do not thrive on a gratitude practice. We also discuss what can change when you identify your strengths and how you can do so.

Join us for an enriching conversation about building your positivity muscle, embracing gratitude, and playing to your strengths while understanding those of your colleagues!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Ideas to equip listeners to care for their mental health in 2025.
• Background on positive psychologist, Kimberley Wakefield.
• Positive psychology, how it differs from traditional psychology, and the negativity bias.
• Insight into the impact that negativity has on our brains.
• Barbara Fredrickson’s theory on the evolutionary basis for positive emotions.
• What changes when we train ourselves to look for and savour positive moments.
• Validating concerns while implementing positive psychology.
• Benefits of stopping, acknowledging, and breathing.
• What to do if a gratitude practice does not work for you.
• Using the VIA Character Strengths Survey to identify your strengths in the workplace.
• Keys to building psychological safety in the workplace.
• The part every person has to play in the positive environment of your workplace.
• Why your approach must change and develop with your needs.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Kimberley Wakefield
• Kimberley Wakefield on LinkedIn
• VIA Character Strengths Survey
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Each year, on December 3rd, the United Nations observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. Systemic, cultural, and attitudinal challenges underscore the importance of creating inclusive and accessible environments.

In this new episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we are honoured to welcome Angela Bonfanti, President and CEO of the CNIB Foundation. Angela shares her invaluable insights on advocacy, leadership, and empowering the blind community to access meaningful employment. Our discussion highlights how fostering inclusivity and accessibility not only enhances organizational culture and drives business success.

Since joining CNIB in 2011, Angela has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s strategic vision and addressing the challenges Canadians face with sight loss. She reflects on her journey into advocacy, inspired by witnessing the barriers her father faced due to a debilitating eye condition. Angela also discusses the innovative initiatives she is most passionate about and CNIB’s ongoing efforts to address the limitations of Canada’s infrastructure.

Join us as we explore Angela’s story and her commitment to creating a more inclusive future.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing Angela and CNIB, one of Canada’s longest-standing NFP organizations.
• Her story of falling into advocacy after witnessing her father’s struggle with disability barriers.
• The biggest barrier the disabled community faces: the attitudes of others.
• Why it's crucial to consider new arrivals to Canada.
• Angela’s journey into leadership and what she learned as an aide in the House of Commons.
• Moving from philanthropy to government relations.
• What it’s like to be the 8th CEO of CNIB in 106 years and the first female.
• The mission and mandate of CNIB and how it has evolved throughout its existence.
• Dwindling numbers of community organizations and challenges in 2020.
• Insight into navigating the job market as a blind professional.
• How Angela’s work in employment advocacy has unfolded with five system stages.
• Why inclusivity is good for culture and business.
• CNIB’s work to create safe transportation options for the people they serve.
• How Angela ultimately sees her role: to future-proof CNIB.
• Suggestions of how to support CNIB’s work.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• CNIB Foundation
• Angela Bonfanti
• Angela Bonfanti on LinkedIn
• Angela Bonfanti on Instagram
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham