MNL Spotlight Manitoba will spotlight the ideas, partnerships, and people shaping what’s next. With deep roots and bold ambition, this event will bring forward regional strengths and national conversations grounded in Manitoba’s distinctive energy. Coming soon.
Marco Bianchini is an Economist at the OECD’s Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities, and Coordinator of the “Digital for SMEs” (D4SME) Global Initiative. With over a decade of experience in digitalisation, innovation, and AI policy for SMEs, he has authored numerous OECD reports and directly supported governments across Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, as well as G7 and G20 fora. D4SME fosters global dialogue on helping SMEs—especially traditional ones—embrace digital transformation. Bianchini holds degrees in Economics from the University of Florence and Bocconi University, both summa cum laude, and previously worked at McKinsey in corporate finance.
Dr. Peter Warrian is Distinguished Research Fellow, Munk Centre for International Studies, University of Toronto. He is Canada’s leading academic expert on the steel industry. His current research is on the future of mining. He was formerly Research Director of the United Steelworkers of America. From 1992-94 he was Assistant Deputy Minister of Finance and Chief Economist of the Province of Ontario. He currently serves as an economic advisor to the Vatican on the future of work.
Dr. Wendy Cukier is a professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Academic Director of the Diversity Institute, and Academic Research Director of the Future Skills Centre. She co-authored the bestseller “Innovation Nation: Canadian Leadership from Java to Jurassic Park” and is a leader in disruptive technologies and innovation. Formerly the Vice President of Research and Innovation, and associate Dean of the Ted Rogers School of Management, she is now the Academic Director of TMUs Diversity Institute. She has also received Canada’s Meritorious Service Cross, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
Mark Patterson is the Executive Director of Magnet, a centre of innovation focused on the future of work at Toronto Metropolitan University. Under his leadership, Magnet built a platform that connects millions across talent, industry, education, and training, helping Canadians develop the skills needed for a rapidly evolving job market. One of Canada’s top thought leaders in workforce innovation and technology integration, Mark offers valuable insights into how artificial intelligence is reshaping skills and employment. His leadership continues to influence how individuals and organizations adapt to these changes.
Emily Madden is a dynamic leader and storyteller, known for bringing energy, insight, and connection to every conversation she leads. As Senior Director at Magnet, housed at Toronto Metropolitan University and Executive Producer of Magnet Network Live, Emily oversees creative strategy, communications, and national partnerships that drive innovation and future-of-work initiatives across Canada. She works to amplify diverse voices, foster meaningful dialogue, and create spaces where ideas turn into action. With a deep commitment to collaboration and systems change, Emily brings a thoughtful yet lively approach to convening leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Marketa began as President and CEO of Colleges Ontario in May 2023, representing Ontario’s 24 public colleges. She was previously Vice President at Colleges and Institutes Canada, overseeing federal relations and advocacy. Marketa also served as Vice President at WoodGreen Community Services, leading the Innovation Lab and integrated service models for labour market outcomes. Her background includes corporate banking with CIBC, Executive Director of the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, and roles with Plan International Canada and United Way Toronto. Marketa holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of Toronto and enjoys running, camping, hiking, and scuba diving.
Darian is the Métis founder of Jelly Digital Marketing & PR and Jelly Academy, based in Vancouver. He hosts the Marketing News Canada podcast, chairs the Digital Marketing Sector Council, and sits on the board of NPower Canada. His book, Marketing Mentors, features interviews with Seth Godin, Guy Kawasaki, and marketing leads from LEGO, Lululemon, and Starbucks. Darian lives in Fort Langley, British Columbia with his wife and four children. He enjoys mountain biking, swimming, growing dahlias, watercolor painting, and reading YA novels.
Noel Baldwin is the Interim Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre (FSC). He brings nearly two decades of experience in leading strategic initiatives and policy development in postsecondary education, adult learning and skills development. Since joining FSC in 2019 as Director of Government and Public Affairs, Noel has provided leadership in navigating the complex skills ecosystem and working with diverse stakeholders to foster innovation in skills development that addresses the evolving needs of the workforce and promotes inclusive economic growth.
Karim Bardeesy is the Executive Director of the Dais, a think tank at Toronto Metropolitan University working on Canada’s biggest innovation, education and democracy policy and leadership challenges. Karim was Deputy Principal Secretary and Director of Policy for Ontario Premiers Kathleen Wynne and Dalton McGuinty, and an editorial writer at The Globe and Mail. Karim holds a BA from McGill and a Master in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. He is the son of immigrants from Egypt and England, grew up in Bathurst, New Brunswick, and is now raising two children with his wife in Toronto’s west end.
Paul Thompson was appointed Deputy Minister of Employment and Social Development on September 18, 2023. Previously, he served as Deputy Minister of Public Services and Procurement and as Associate Deputy Minister at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. He has also held senior executive roles at Employment and Social Development Canada, including Senior Assistant Deputy Minister for the Skills and Employment Branch, as well as positions at the Privy Council Office, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the Treasury Board. Paul holds degrees in economics from Queen’s University and the University of Toronto and enjoys outdoor activities with his three children.
20+ years of experience as an investor in mission driven data and AI companies. His goal in life is to use the power of technological innovation to make a positive impact. Pioneering entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader at the forefront of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Robert’s career has been deeply intertwined with the rapid evolution of AI and disruptive technologies. He has successfully founded, developed, and scaled multiple AI-driven companies, with his first successful exit in this domain at the age of 18. Robert holds several algorithmic patents and has been instrumental in creating groundbreaking AI technologies. He has worked with a diverse range of organizations, including government agencies like NASA and NATO, sports franchises like PSG, Juventus, and the New York Mets, and renowned companies such as Ferrari, TetraPak, Aramco, and LVMH, helping them harness the power of AI.
As Bow Valley College’s Vice President, Academic in Calgary, Michael Crowe’s 20+ years of leadership in Canada’s post-secondary sector shine. Leading Pivot-Ed, a competency-based upskilling and re-skilling initiative, his leadership shapes the college’s future, addressing workforce challenges with innovative solutions to ensuring a seamless path from classroom to career.
Charles founded the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst in 2018 with a vision to build Canada’s leading centre for cybersecurity innovation and collaboration. Charles oversees all aspects of the Catalyst’s program delivery and strategic growth. Charles has been instrumental in developing nationally unique programming in cybersecurity training, commercialization, public education and policy development.Prior to founding the Catalyst, Charles served as chief of staff and director of policy to the Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Growth. Charles worked closely with private sector and government leaders to develop and implement the province’s strategy to make Ontario a global leader in technology innovation and commercialization.
Zak leads Magnet’s strategic planning, partnerships, and high-impact initiatives across its pan-Canadian community. Working closely with the Executive Director and senior leadership, he oversees the development and implementation of cross-organizational priorities, advisory board management, and organizational impact strategy. Zak plays a pivotal role in driving Magnet’s long-term vision, facilitating high-level strategy conversations, and actively seeking opportunities for collaboration and thought leadership across Canada’s employment and training landscape. He is committed to fostering strong partnerships at the forefront of innovation and sustainability for the future of work.
Jeanette Sutherland is the Director of Workforce Innovation at Calgary Economic Development, leading workforce development initiatives to enhance economic growth in Calgary. Her expertise includes strategic workforce planning, talent attraction and retention, labour market analysis, and program development. Jeanette collaborates with industry, post-secondary institutions, and community partners to address workforce challenges. She serves on multiple boards, including Alberta’s Labour Market Information Advisory Board and the Calgary Local Immigration Partnership Council. She also led the EDGE UP program to help displaced oil and gas professionals transition into tech careers and created the Calgary Connector and Careers in Calgary programs.
Michael Burt leads several knowledge areas at The Conference Board of Canada, including economic forecasting, economic research, and education and skills. In his role, Mr. Burt oversees the convening and research activities that these knowledge areas undertake, and The Conference Board’s contributions to the Future Skills Centre. He provides presentations on a variety of topics to clients and the public and is often cited in the media.
Abdullah Snobar is the Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures, where he leads a global startup ecosystem renowned for its world-leading Incubator, Talent Academy, and investment fund. To date, DMZ has helped over 840 startups raise more than $2.69 billion in capital. Under Abdullah’s leadership, DMZ has expanded its global impact by establishing hubs across North America, Latin America, Africa, and Asia, and launched an investment fund under DMZ Ventures.
Daniel Kjellsson is the Director-General of the Future Talent Council, a global organization connecting senior leaders in corporate talent, education, and government to drive change in human capability and opportunity. The Council represents more than 700 employers, government agencies, and educational institutions. In 2023, he was appointed Chair of the Altruistic AI100 initiative, which aims to democratize AI literacy worldwide. Daniel also chairs the Swedish Future Skills Centre and serves on several global advisory boards. He has founded multiple initiatives across journalism, media, education, and technology and lives in Stockholm with his family.
Andrew is committed to the concept of Inclusion for Performance. At Liberty Square, he challenges
leaders to embrace the reality that in a complex world, ‘it’s not about how smart you are, it about how smart you make your team’. Andrew’s passion for deep team collaboration extends to his philanthropic work with organizations serving the most vulnerable in Toronto and overseas. For his community work Andrew was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. His book Death of The Single-Minded Leader hits the bookshelves in November, 2024.
Jessica leads the successful execution of partnership projects, data initiatives, and technology integrations. She works closely with partners to execute on collaborative approaches to help address pan-Canadian workforce development challenges. With a strong service orientation and partnership focus, her team develops and maintains deep understanding of the complex labour market landscapes across the country, supporting Magnet’s partners to deliver successful initiatives.
Candice Faktor is the co-founder of Disco, the AI-powered social learning platform. Candice is a keynote speaker on the future of work and believes we must invest in upskilling our workforces to use AI to augment human potential. Candice helped scale Wattpad, a platform which sold for US$660MM. Candice is also a venture partner for Lobby.vc, a Series A VC firm based in Silicon Valley. Recently, Candice was on the Boards of Coveo, an enterprise AI platform, and Dreambox Learning. Candice started her career at Monitor, a strategy consulting firm. Candice cares deeply about Canada’s future and believes in the power of innovation to create economic prosperity for our country.
Sumentha oversees critical functions with her dedicated team, by collaborating closely with Toronto Metropolitan University on Human Resources, finance, and legal matters, ensuring seamless operations and administration of grant programs. Sumentha cultivates an environment that aligns with the University’s reputation as Canada’s most creative, connected, and entrepreneurial institution, while also nurturing Magnet’s distinct organizational culture. Sumentha is a passionate advocate for learning, development, inclusion, diversity, and fairness, recognizing that lasting positive impact on Canada’s employment and training ecosystem begins within the organization itself.
Akosua Alagaratnam is the Executive Director of First Work, with extensive experience in public affairs and policy focused on marginalized communities and youth. She previously led Youth Justice and Youth Opportunity policy for Ontario’s Minister of Children and Youth Services and served as a senior policy advisor to the Minister of Finance. Akosua has over six years of government experience and seven years on the board of Peel Women’s Centre. She currently sits on boards including MABELLEarts and Goodwill Industries, and co-chairs CERIC’s Advocacy and Community Engagement Committee, advancing career development in Canada through education and advocacy.
Bakari Savage is an Anchor and Reporter for CP24, a role he assumed in July 2021. Savage has reported on a multitude of high-profile stories in the city, including CP24’s coverage of the inaugural visit of Mary Simon, Canada’s first Indigenous Governor
General, to Queen’s Park in 2022; an exclusive interview with Adam Attala, the teen hero who saved children from a burning home in Mississauga; and the deadly Father’s Day 2022 shootings in the GTA.
With more than 10 years of broadcasting experience, Savage has reported on a wide variety of news stories in his career, including natural disasters, suicide awareness, childhood obesity, and crime.
Patrick MacKenzie is the CEO of the Immigrant Employment Council of BC. He has made a career of public service from coast to coast, working in policy and program areas aimed at supporting many of Canada’s most vulnerable communities through economic and social development as
well as international relations. Previously, Patrick spent 11 years working for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada at its national headquarters in Ottawa and its regional offices in Vancouver. Throughout his career, Patrick has worked with partners on matters
affecting indigenous and immigrant populations, including immigrant economic integration, provincial nominee programs, credential recognition and labour mobility.
Florence leads a talented team of marketing, communications, and program engagement professionals who amplify Magnet’s vision of driving systems change across Canada. By leveraging data and collaboration with our partners she is able to create innovative and high impact nationwide campaigns. Her team is committed to social innovation and expanding Magnet’s impact on the future of work.
For more than two decades, JP has held positions of increasing responsibility with economic development, NGO, management consulting, industrial and corporate organizations throughout Canada. Beginning as an economic development officer in Canada’s Capital Region, JP has devoted the past 20 years developing innovative workplace performance-based solutions for the Canadian manufacturing sector. JP’s expertise in leading and managing innovative projects has resulted in the creation of advanced human resources technologies, skills and change management strategies, certification programs for leaders, managers/supervisors and production workers, learning & business Impact assessments/tools, and labour market intelligence (LMI) resources/initiatives. JP holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, an Information Technology (eCommerce) Diploma, and a Master in Science (M.Sc.), specializing in Human Resources & Industrial Relations.
Danielle (Dane) Cadhit is a creative practitioner, futurist, and strategist passionate about systems design and transformation. She primarily impacts this space as the Director of Systems & Emergent Strategy at Coralus, a global community of changemakers working on initiatives, projects, and businesses practicing radical generosity in order to create a world that has humans thriving. Over the last decade, her experiences range from the areas of technology, finance, operations, grassroots organizing, and maker education. As a lifelong learner, Danielle enjoys deep conversations that connect seemingly disparate ideas and advances social purpose work from a multi-disciplinary, community-based, experimental lens.
Scott is a senior executive with 30+ years in education and public policy. He began as a teacher in Vancouver and was Deputy Minister of Education for British Columbia, managing 650,000 students and an $8 billion budget. He also served as Assistant Deputy Minister for Economic Development and CEO of Pacific Carbon Trust. Scott is the co-founder of Propero Learning Systems Inc., focusing on skills development and innovative solutions. He holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and an MBA from Royal Roads University. Scott resides in Victoria, British Columbia.
Scott is the Founder and CEO of Venture for Canada (VFC), a national charity that fosters entrepreneurial skills and mindsets in young Canadians. VFC’s programs recruit, train, and support young Canadians to work at Canadian small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). In 2023, VFC supported approximately 4,200 work-integrated learning experiences for young people at 1,000 Canadian SMEs.
Scott has been recognized as a 2019 Young Impact Leader by Future of Good, a 2022 Changemaker by the Globe and Mail, a 2022-2023 Action Canada Fellow by the Public Policy Forum, a 2023 Emerging Leader by the Peak, and an Ashoka Fellow.
Jeff Melanson is renowned for his inventive approach to disruptive innovation, blending bold strategy with practical vision. As Strategic Partner for Unity Technologies, Partner at The Stratagem Group, and Advisor at Lansberg Gersick Advisors, he excels in identifying hidden talent and growth opportunities. Jeff has served as President and CEO of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, President of the Banff Centre, and Dean at the Royal Conservatory of Music. He holds an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University and frequently speaks on innovation, creative economies, and city building. Jeff was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2009 and is a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal recipient.
Dr. Mohamed Lachemi is president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, first appointed in 2016 and reappointed for a second term ending in 2026. An internationally recognized researcher and civil engineering professor since 1998, he has held senior roles, including dean and provost. As president, Dr. Lachemi has elevated the university’s global stature, launched the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, and secured approvals for innovative law and medical schools. A graduate of L’Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d’Oran and L’Université de Sherbrooke, he serves on multiple boards and was appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2022.
Anna holds the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration, at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is also the Scientific Director of a $98.4 mln multi-University and multi-partner Program entitled Bridging Divides funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund. Prior to joining TMU in 2019, she held a Robert Schuman Centre Chair at the European University Institute, in Florence, Italy. She is Editor of the Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Studies. In 2021, the University of Liège awarded Triandafyllidou a doctorate honoris causa in recognition of her contribution to migration scholarship. She has published widely on migration governance and migrant integration.
Dr. Steven Liss is a professor of Chemistry and Biology. Returning to Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) in 2017 after leadership roles at the University of Guelph and Queen’s University, he has significantly advanced TMU’s research growth and partnerships. Awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for his contributions to Canada’s research ecosystem, Dr. Liss has played a key role in establishing initiatives like the Rogers CyberSecure Catalyst, Future Skills Centre, and City Building TMU. His leadership continues to enhance TMU’s prominence in health, well-being, and digital infrastructure.
Keka is a 20-year award-winning PR/marketing veteran, working with brands like IKEA, Nike, Disney, and American Express. She is passionate about using gratitude to connect people and brands. Keka has taught at the Schulich School of Business and leads several entrepreneurial ventures, including founding “Art of Life-ing” and hosting Gratitude workshops across North America for students and corporate audiences. She is also Vice Chair of CERIC’s Board, advancing career development in Canada through education and advocacy. Keka is dedicated to fostering positive emotional connections and corporate cultures.
Doug Walker is a veteran of the Canadian technology industry and a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University. His career began at IBM, followed by leadership roles in SMEs and global enterprises. Doug served as President of Silicon Graphics Canada (which acquired Cray Computing) and CEO of Alias Systems and BitTorrent. He co-founded WhoPlusYou with Joanne Rusnell (COO) and Al Lopez (CPO), joined by Ryerson graduate Jason Kirow (CTO). Doug’s connection to TMU, facilitated by Sheldon Levy and Mark Patterson of Magnet, highlights a unique private/public partnership aimed at helping communities grow through greater productivity and efficiency.
Rob is President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. Rob has expanded BioTalent Canada’s partnerships throughout Canada with industry-leading organizations such as STEMCELL Technologies, adMare BioInnovations, Innovative Medicines Canada, and Sanofi Canada, among others. Under Rob’s guidance, BioTalent Canada has engaged with governments, employers, associations, post-secondary institutions, immigrant serving agencies, and service providers. Together, this dynamic network strengthens skills, connects job-ready talent to industry, and creates opportunities. With the help of several prominent board members, Rob has transformed BioTalent Canada into an in-demand partner, policy influencer, and project leader that brings together the largest national bio-economy network in Canada.
Krista Pawley is a tri-sector leader who connects people and organizations across 56+ countries to catalyze sustainable, inclusive impact. She co-founded Wavemakers, the first national Work-Integrated Learning program using Virtual Reality, and founded Imperative Impact. Krista also co-chairs EXCITE, Canada’s digital trust community, and serves on the board of Equitas. As a BMW Foundation Responsible Leader and member of the Stimson Center’s Alfred Lee Loomis Innovation Council, she influences policy and innovation. Krista’s work, whether as a leader, partner, or mom, is driven by a commitment to shaping an inclusive, sustainable, and innovative future.
Wendy Cukier is a leading Canadian expert on disruptive technologies, innovation, and diversity, with over 200 published papers and coauthor of the bestseller Innovation Nation. As Director of the Diversity Institute, she drives evidence-based strategies for inclusion. During her tenure as Vice President, Research and Innovation at Toronto Metropolitan University, she increased external funding by over 60%, created the I-INC network, and positioned the university as Canada’s first Ashoka Changemaker Campus. Wendy also led significant advancements at the Ted Rogers School of Management and currently chairs the Board of Women’s College Hospital. She is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Governor General’s Meritorious Cross.
Jessica is the founder of Prompt Pilot, a leading SaaS platform that uses an AI coach to help users become expert prompters. She holds a First Class Honors Degree in AI Business Strategy, Risk Management, and Economics. As an Innovation Strategist at Altruistic, she combines financial acumen with AI expertise to drive impactful initiatives. Jessica is a renowned prompt engineer and thought leader in AI and business strategy, contributing to research with NYU, Ferrari, and EY. Her extensive startup experience enables her to create collaborative ecosystems for groundbreaking AI applications.
The Hon. Bill Morneau is the Chair of the Magnet Advisory Board. He served as Canada’s 39th Minister of Finance from 2015 to 2020, following a successful career building his family firm, LifeWorks (formerly Morneau Shepell) into the largest Canadian human resources services provider. As Canada’s former Minister of Finance, Mr. Morneau played the key role in the development and execution of economic policy, led the introduction of the Canadian approach to carbon pricing, and stewarded Canada’s economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Surranna Sandy is the Chief Executive Officer of Skills for Change (SfC), a registered charity serving 20,000 immigrants, refugees, and individuals from underserved groups across Canada annually. In her role, she is committed to bridging the gap between potential and opportunities for Skills for Change’s clients. Recognizing the importance of collaborative efforts in this endeavour, she is committed to creating partnerships and fostering a supportive organizational culture that aligns with and amplifies this mission.
Paul Jenkins served as Senior Deputy Governor of the Bank of Canada from April 2003 until his retirement in April 2010. In this capacity, he served as the Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and, along with the Governor, as a member of the Board of Directors of the Bank. Mr. Jenkins also served on Western University’s Board of Governors from 2010-2019, the last two years of which were spent as Board Chair, collaborating with the University’s President to help ensure proper stewardship and good governance at the University.
Originally from Bermuda, Chantal made Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada home #2 after graduating from Saint Mary’s University. In 2018, after reconnecting with her passion of helping others find careers that they love, Chantal started the journey to what would become EnPoint. Now she leads a team committed to helping organizations leverage mentorship as a tool to support their people’s career development. Working with post-secondary education institutions and nonprofits, Chantal is on a mission to help 1,000,000 people lead fulfilling careers.
With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, Matt is deeply committed to partnering with the global higher education community to redefine student and institutional success by leveraging Symplicity’s smart, innovative technology. Since becoming President & CEO of Symplicity, he has expanded the company globally with products and acquisitions in Latin America, Canada, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East. Matt has a deep understanding of the EdTech market and an appreciation for how important the issue of employability has become domestically and abroad, along with the role technology can have to address the challenge.
Daniel is a prominent business and public policy leader with extensive experience in government and the corporate sector. As the CEO and majority owner of Argyle Communications from 2003 to 2023, he grew the firm into Canada’s largest management-owned engagement and communications advisory firm. Daniel previously served as Senior Policy Advisor and Acting Chief of Staff to Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and represented Canada at the G7 Economic Summit. A global expert in corporate communications and crisis management, he lectures at Queen’s University and appears regularly in the media. Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, Daniel holds degrees from Queen’s University and is a certified corporate director.
Drew Lindsay is a seasoned technology entrepreneur and talent strategist with over 20 years in high-tech recruitment. As Co-Founder of GuruLink Inc. and Founder of PathPilot.ai, Drew connects top talent with innovative companies and leverages AI to revolutionize career development. His expertise in talent acquisition, startup mentoring, and angel investing offers a unique perspective on work and technology. A Queen’s University graduate, Drew’s passion for AI and the future of work makes him a compelling speaker on AI’s transformative impact on careers and organizational structures.
With 35 years of experience in the UK and Canada, Colin has led in education, recreation, telecommunications, government, and non-profits. As the founder of Polaris Leadership Inc., he previously held an executive role at a national charity, overseeing fundraising and partnerships, and helped secure over $250M in funding. Since 2015, Colin has been President of BC Colleges, focusing on partner relations and promoting colleges. He co-created a graduate program at Royal Roads University and has volunteered extensively. Colin enjoys cycling and squash, is married to Sarah, and has two daughters and two grandchildren.
Shamira is Managing Director, Canada and Deputy Executive Director, World Education Services (WES). She joined WES in 2018 after more than two decades of public service. She has extensive experience working with licensing bodies, settlement agencies, and higher education and post-secondary sectors in Ontario. She served as the chief architect of several government programs that enable highly skilled immigrants to obtain employment in their fields. Shamira played a key role in the launch of WES Canada in 2000 during her tenure at the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration as Provincial Lead, Access to Professions and Trades.
Sasha is the Director of BIT Canada. He works with organizations across Canada to improve policy, program, and service design by applying insights from behavioural science. Sasha specializes in behavioural insights for labour markets. He has worked with organizations including Magnet, the Future Skills Centre, ESDC, and Serco to bring a more human-centred and evidence-driven approach to supporting jobseekers, workers, and employers. He lives in Montreal with his partner Katie and their dog Lucy.
Tiffany is a committed advocate for the Black community’s prosperity in Canada. She co-founded the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE) in 2021, focusing on generational wealth creation. Tiffany co-developed the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund with the Canadian government, supporting Black entrepreneurs. Her decades-long dedication to community development and social entrepreneurship has earned her several accolades, including the RBC’s Ones to Watch award, MIPAD recognition, and the BBPA Harry Jerome Chairman’s Award. Tiffany’s initiatives exemplify her passion for driving change and economic empowerment within Canada’s Black community. She is also a member of the Forbes Business Council.
Dr. Clarke has served in Alberta Public Service roles, including Deputy Minister of Advanced Education, K-12 Education, and Solicitor General. He was also Assistant Deputy Minister of Alberta Correctional Services and Cabinet Policy Coordinator. He represented Canada on the OECD Education Policy Committee Bureau. Dr. Clarke’s board experience includes Director at the Canadian Centre for Substance Use and Addictions, Mentor Canada, Canadian Association of Police Educators, National Police Sector Council, and INTERPOL Group of Experts in Training. He holds a BA and MA in Sociology from Queen’s University and a PhD from York University, with executive programs from Harvard, Stanford, and Cornell.
For 14 years, Randi has been an Executive and Team Coach, drawing on her background as a Certified Management Accountant and senior leader in the pharmaceutical and forest products manufacturing sectors. Her expertise in Executive and Systems Coaching empowers leaders and teams to maximize their potential through tailored Life, Leadership, and Relationship strategies. Recently, Randi became the Lead at Lumina Learning Canada USA, where she serves as a Global Partner and Master Facilitator. She focuses on expanding Lumina Learning’s impact by supporting practitioners and enterprise clients in transforming organizations, celebrating people one human at a time.
Leslie Woo, CRE® is a distinguished city leader with over 25 years of expertise in sustainable community building and urban development in the Greater Toronto Area. As CEO of CivicAction since 2020, she drives coalitions for transformative civic engagement. Leslie has held key roles in public and private sectors, including Chief Planning Officer at Metrolinx and Chief Development Officer at Infrastructure Ontario. She has significantly influenced the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront and serves on various boards, including Waterfront Toronto. Leslie is also a Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy.
Jamie Savage is the Interim CEO of Startup Canada and is also the Founder of The Leadership Agency, the executive recruitment partner of choice for North America’s fastest-growing startups and non-profits. Under Jamie’s leadership, The Leadership Agency has seen impressive growth, expanding into the US within just 18 months. The firm has garnered multiple accolades, including Best Service Provider 2019 (HRD Canada), Best Professional Services 2020 (CanadianSME Business Magazine), and Best Workplaces for Startups 2023 (Great Place to Work). A trailblazer in the HR and recruitment industry, Jamie shares her expertise through contributions to The Globe and Mail, CBC, Inc., and HRD Magazine.
