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

In recognition of the International Day of Tolerance on November 16, we’re exploring the importance of fostering acceptance and understanding through meaningful conversations. In the latest episode of CCDI’s Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we welcome Sonia Sangha, Global Senior Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leader at IKEA, for a deep dive into tolerance in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA).

With over 20 years of experience shaped by global, national, and regional perspectives, Sonia’s approach to DEIA is profoundly shaped by her background as a first-generation Indo-Canadian. Join us as we discuss Sonia’s career journey, from her early experiences to her advocacy for South Asian and underrepresented communities in Canada and beyond.

Listen to Sonia’s perspectives on allyship, and practical steps for fostering tolerance and challenging misinformation.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing Global Senior Leader at IKEA, Sonia Sangha.
• IKEA’s Refugee Skills for Employment Initiative that Sonia co-created.
• Her personal journey to choosing a career in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
• How her early experiences shaped who she is.
• The challenge of racism and inclusion for South Asian individuals in Canada.
• Unpacking what might be behind racism and prejudice towards South Asians.
• How to raise awareness for workplaces on South Asian racism.
• Art, entertainment, and cultural events that bring people together.
• What allyship truly means in relation to combating misinformation and stereotypes.
• Some ideas on what it might look like to gain exposure to different perspectives.
• How the work that Sonia does is supporting the people of IKEA.
• Staying strong in the challenging arena of this work.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Sonia Sangha on LinkedIn
• South Asian Immigration to Canada Statistics Chart
• Environics Institute - Canadian public opinion about immigration and refugees - Fall 2024
• Canada’s Far-Right is Targeting South Asian and Sikh Canadians to Incite Anti-Immigrant Hate
• Front Burner CBC podcast - The rise of anti-South Asian content online
• Stop AAPI Hate – Empowered/Imperiled – The Rise of South Asian Representation and Anti-South Asian Racism
• Rioters carry out violent, racist attacks across several British cities. What happened, and what comes next?
• South Asian newcomers to Canada say online hate is taking a toll
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

In today's episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we engage in a necessary and thought-provoking dialogue on Islamophobia in Canada, a pressing issue given the complex and evolving geopolitical landscape, including current conflicts. We acknowledge that some listeners may find this discussion challenging and encourage you to proceed with care and self-compassion.

Our guest, Mohammed Hashim, brings over two decades of expertise as a human rights advocate to shed light on these critical issues. As the CEO of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) and the lead of the National Hate Crimes Task Force with the RCMP, Mohammed offers a unique perspective on the impact of Islamophobia in Canada, especially within Muslim communities. We explore how diverse Muslim communities experience discrimination differently, the ways it manifests in workplaces, and the responsibility of employers to support employees through times of crisis.

Mohammed also delves into the complexities of advocating for human rights, offers insights on prosecuting hate speech, and shares guidance on nurturing empathy, humility, and creating meaningful change.

Tune in to this essential episode and join us in fostering more inclusive, understanding communities.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Mohammed Hashim on LinkedIn
• Canadian Race Relations Foundation
• Hate Crime Task Force
• Montreal
• Truth and Reconciliation Strategy in Montreal
• National Council Canadian Muslims
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, we are reminded of the collective responsibility to recognize the truths of our shared history and to actively engage in reconciliation efforts. Building a racism-free workplace is an essential part of this ongoing journey, and learning from the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples is a key step forward.

In this new episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, we are joined by Elijah Blackbird, Culture Manager at the Beer Store, a valued five-year Employer Partner of CCDI, who has been working in diversity, equity, and inclusion for more than 25 years. Elijah, who also serves on the Board of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada and coaches youth soccer, offers a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the diverse realities of Indigenous communities in Canada.

Elijah begins by highlighting the diversity of indigeneity in Canada and how a single act of inclusion shaped his life. He shares his vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing its deeper meaning, and explores the vital role of a Culture Manager. Elijah also discusses Truth and Reconciliation, urging Canadians to challenge their perceptions of Indigenous Peoples, and shares key lessons on inclusion and indigeneity. Tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing Elijah Blackbird, Culture Manager at The Beer Store.
• Background on Elijah’s upbringing and heritage as part of the Crane Clan.
• How a teacher brought him to realize his strengths and needs.
• Elijah’s simple vision for Diversity and Inclusion in Canada.
• Parental leave, pension benefits, and reframing perceptions of what DNI work actually is.
• His evolving roles at The Beer Store over the past 25 years.
• The duties of a Culture Manager and why this position is so important.
• Thoughts on Truth and Reconciliation: why focusing on the truth is the most important.
• Challenging perceptions around Indigenous people in the beer industry.
• Understanding history, culture, and varying contexts through the lens of colonization.
• Where the power of DNI classes actually lies.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Elijah Blackbird on LinkedIn
• Elijah Blackbird on X
• The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada
• The Beer Store
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Happy International Youth Day! Today, we celebrate the power and potential of young people to shape a more inclusive and vibrant future. Our latest episode of the Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham podcast features Kevin Lawler and Rowan O’Grady from the Whiteboard Collective (WBC), who are passionately working to ensure that young people from all backgrounds have access to meaningful job opportunities.

In this special episode, Kevin and Rowan share their inspiring vision for a society where youth are not only included but empowered to thrive. WBC is a social impact career accelerator dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating sustainable employment outcomes for marginalized communities across Canada.

Tune in as they discuss innovative career programs and their collaborative efforts with corporate partners to rethink talent acquisition and foster a more equitable society. Whether you're a young professional, an advocate, or an employer, this conversation is packed with practical advice on how to make a real impact.

Join us in amplifying the voices of young changemakers today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Insight into our guests’ professional backgrounds and the important work they do at WBC.
• Unpacking WBC’s vision and their innovative career programs that make it a reality.
• Ways that WBC works with their corporate partners to promote sustainable employment.
• The mindset shift required to view diversity as an asset to your organization, not a liability.
• Challenges that employers face when admitting they have a diversity problem.
• Careers driving social impact: what goes into putting WBC’s tagline into practice.
• Inspiring examples of young candidates who have thrived through their programs.
• What an ideal partnership looks like for WBC, and how you can support their mission.
• How WBC is collaborating with CCDI’s See Different youth education initiative.
• Actionable advice for employers looking to improve their DEI outcomes.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Whiteboard Collective
• Whiteboard Collective on LinkedIn
• Whiteboard Collective on Instagram
• Kevin Lawler on LinkedIn
• Rowan O’Grady on LinkedIn
• Pinball Clemons Foundations
• CCDI ‘See Different’ Youth Education Initiative
• Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP) Certification
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI)
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham

Episode 6: Show Notes

This summer, with Canada's natural beauty on full display, we acknowledge and express gratitude towards the original caretakers of this land. Today, we honour them here on the Leader Talks Podcast and reflect on our journey of learning and unlearning for progress. Committed to truth and reconciliation, we've partnered with many like-minded organizations, including the very impressive Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).

In today's new episode, we are joined by Mohamed El Daly, Director of Outreach and Product Services at APEGA. Mohamed shares insights into the company's work and his role. We discuss APEGA's evolution, the social and business imperatives for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the importance of cultural awareness and cultural competence in Mohamed's work. Additionally, we explore the organization's commitment to improving representation of women and using research to uplift communities. You will also get a glimpse of other regulatory bodies excelling in DEI and reconciliation. Plus, Mohamed shares helpful tips for integrating DEI into your communities!

Available at your preferred podcast platform now, or visit: https://ccdi.ca/podcast/


Key Points From This Episode:

• Welcoming Mohamed El Daly as he describes APEGA and his role at the company.
• APEGA's social and business imperatives for EDI and how these have recently evolved.
• The importance of cultural awareness and cultural competence in Mohamed's work.
• Why his role as Director of Outreach matters and how he instigates impactful change.
• Exploring APEGA's multi-year commitment to increase its representation of women.
• Why the company values research and uses it to improve workspaces and communities.
• APEGA's five-year plan, and how it aims to achieve its goals.
• Mohamed's observations of other regulatory bodies that are doing similar great work.
• Our guest's simple strategies for improving EDI in your workplace and community.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Mohamed El Daly on LinkedIn
• Mohamed El Daly on X
• APEGA
• CCDI Awards of Success
• Engineers Canada
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham