Women Rising

Advancing Women’s Leadership Through Policy, Education, Mentorship, and Community Engagement

Advancing Women’s Leadership Through Policy, Education, Mentorship, and Community Engagement

Welcome to Women Rising, a transformative initiative dedicated to advancing women’s leadership, fostering community connections, and supporting career and entrepreneurial journeys. Join us in creating a vibrant network of empowered women across the Lower Mainland.

Program Overview

Women Rising is a comprehensive program designed to inspire, educate, and connect women from diverse backgrounds. Through a series of networking events, interactive workshops, insightful seminars, and meaningful mentorship we aim to provide the tools and support needed for women to excel in their professional and personal lives.

Workshops
Seminars
Mentorship
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Launch Event: Women Rising Kickoff

  • Thursday, September 12th
  • 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Coquitlam City Center Library, Rooms #136 & 137 - 1169 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
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Highlights

  • Inspirational talks from guest speakers
  • Engaging breakout groups for collaboration
  • Introduction to upcoming workshops and seminars
  • Insights into how Women Rising can support your career and entrepreneurial journey
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Join us for the launch of Women Rising! This free community event will bring together women from Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Surrey, New Westminster, Burnaby, and Vancouver. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drinks as you network with community leaders and other inspiring women.

Upcoming Workshops

Each workshop will feature an expert guest speaker and facilitator, followed by activities designed to help you implement what you’ve learned. The session will conclude with 30 minutes of networking, allowing you to build connections and discuss your experiences

Leadership Workshop #1: Networking & Communication Skills

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  • Saturday, November 2nd
  • 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • Vancouver Coal Harbour Community Center: 480 Broughton St, Vancouver
  • Mulit-purpose room
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Leadership Workshop #2: Assertiveness - How to Speak Up for Yourself & Others

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  • Saturday, November 30th
  • 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • Vancouver Coal Harbour Community Center: 480 Broughton St, Vancouver
  • Multi-purpose room
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Leadership Workshop #3: Personal Branding

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  • Saturday, February 1st
  • 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • Guildford Library, 15105 105 Ave, Surrey BC
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Leadership Workshop #4: Launching Your Own Venture

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  • Saturday, March 1st
  • 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
  • 480 Broughton St, Vancouver
  • Multi-purpose room
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Seminars

Each seminar will provide an in-depth exploration of these topics through rich content and dynamic panel discussions. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with thought leaders, ask questions, and contribute to the conversation, making each seminar a collaborative learning experience.

Seminar #1: Women in Politics: Leadership & Representation

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  • Thursday, October 3rd
  • 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
  • Surrey City Centre Library, Room 120 - 10350 University Drive, Surrey
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Seminar #2: Women Driving Economic Growth: Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Policy

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  • Thursday, November 14th
  • 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
  • Surrey City Centre Library, Room 120 - 10350 University Drive, Surrey
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Seminar #3: Building Strong Communities: Leadership, Inclusivity, and Social Change

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  • Thursday, January 23rd
  • 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
  • 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver - MP Room 4
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Seminar #4: Women Advocating for Social Change

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  • Tuesday, February 11th
  • 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
  • Bonsor Recreation Complex 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby
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Online Events

In addition to our in-person events, we’re excited to offer free online Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions on Zoom. Each session will focus on a specific topic and feature a guest facilitator who is well-versed in that area. With a different facilitator each time, attendees have the opportunity to learn, engage, and ask questions in an interactive and supportive environment.

Conflict Resolution with Adrienne Danielson

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  • Thursday, January 16th, 2025
  • 7:00pm - 8:30pm
  • Zoom Communications
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Mentorship Program

Our mentorship program is a cornerstone of the Women Rising initiative, pairing experienced women leaders with mentees seeking guidance and support. This program runs from October 2024 to April 2025 and is designed to foster meaningful connections and professional growth.

Mentorship Workshop with Eliora

Building trust and rapport: active listening, creating a space for open conversations

Meeting ID: 494 381 8780

Passcode: Tt8V9R

  • Thursday, December 5, 2024
  • 1 pm
  • Zoom Communications
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Become a Mentor

We are actively seeking mentors who are passionate about empowering other women. If you are interested in becoming a mentor, you can sign up here. Apply Now

Mentor Requirements

  • Commitment to at least three one-hour sessions, either in person or online
  • Must be a good listener and provide helpful feedback
  • Experienced in leadership, with a willingness to share knowledge and expertise
  • Ability to inspire and motivate mentees

Mentor Benefits

  • Opportunity to give back and make a significant impact on someone’s career
  • Enhance your own leadership and coaching skills
  • Connect with a network of like-minded women leaders
  • Receive a certificate and a thank you gift

Receive Mentorship

If you are interested in receiving mentorship, you can sign up here. Apply Now

Mentee Benefits

  • Personalized guidance and support from experienced leaders
  • Access to valuable resources and advice to help you achieve your career and/or future goals
  • Opportunities to expand your professional network
  • Enhanced skills in leadership, communication, and personal branding

The mentorship program is designed to support women in their professional and personal development, providing them with the tools and confidence needed to succeed. Whether you’re a mentor or a mentee, this program offers valuable opportunities for growth, connection, and mutual empowerment.

Women Rising Celebration

  • Friday, March 28th
  • 7:00pm to 9:00pm
  • Bonsor Recreation Complex (Banquet Room), 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby, BC
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Celebrate the achievements and connections made throughout the Women Rising program at our final event.

Join Us

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of a movement dedicated to advancing women’s leadership. Register now for the Women Rising launch event and explore the full schedule of workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities.

For more information and to register for our launch event here: Sign Up

Or contact us at WR@lowentropy.org

Together, we can rise, inspire, and lead.

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Low Entropy acknowledges the support of Women and Gender Equality Canada.

Keynote Speaker

Mayor Meghan Lahti

One of Port Moody’s longest-serving council members since 1996, is a dedicated community leader and volunteer. With nearly 20 years in education and business management, she’s led numerous city initiatives, earning the International Livable Communities Award and the national Clements Award for environmental leadership.

Leadership Workshop #1: Networking & Communication Skills

In this interactive workshop, you will learn the art of effective networking and communication — skills essential for building strong professional relationships and advancing in leadership roles. Through practical exercises and expert guidance, you will discover strategies to confidently connect with others, articulate your ideas, and foster collaborations that lead to mutual success. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional circle or improve your interpersonal skills, this workshop provides the tools and insights to help you communicate with impact.

Highlights:

1. Learn techniques to initiate and maintain professional connections.
2. Develop clear and authentic communication skills.
3. Understand and practice active listening in networking.
4. Gain confidence in engaging with diverse groups of people.

Keynote speaker

Jen Thaker

Founder and Professional Financial Advisor at Thaker Financial Inc. With a passion for empowering women, she hosts monthly events to connect and uplift women in business across BC. Jen believes in creating financial security and freedom through smart financial planning, enabling women to live big, beautiful lives.

Facilitator

Mallory Meyer

As the founder of White Wolf Reiki, Mallory specializes in leadership development and team dynamics. With her background as a Reiki Master Teacher and Polyvagal-Informed Leadership & Neurocoach, she integrates neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and somatic practices to empower leaders in enhancing their self-awareness, communication skills and fostering high-performing teams.

Mallory’s holistic approach focuses on understanding the nervous system’s role in stress and performance, helping leaders cultivate authentic connections and create a culture of well-being and productivity without compromising their health or happiness.

Leadership Workshop #2: Assertiveness - How to Speak Up for Yourself & Others

This workshop empowers women to find and use their voice with confidence. You will explore the principles of assertiveness, learning how to express your thoughts, needs, and boundaries effectively while respecting others. Through real-world scenarios and role-playing exercises, you will practice speaking up for yourself and others, a crucial skill for leadership and advocacy in any setting.

Highlights:

1. Understand the difference between assertiveness, passiveness, and aggressiveness.
2. Develop techniques for setting boundaries and saying “no” effectively.
3. Gain tools to advocate for yourself and others in various situations.
4. Practice assertive communication through interactive role-play.

Workshop Facilitator

Islena Faircrest

With over 23 years of experience as a yoga educator and somatic therapist, Islena is a skilled facilitator in assertiveness. Her trauma-informed approach, rooted in Internal Family Systems and nervous system regulation, empowers women to cultivate confidence and assertiveness in their personal and professional lives.

Leadership Workshop #3: Personal Branding

This workshop guides participants through the process of creating and refining their personal brand—how they present themselves to the world both online and offline. You will learn to identify your unique strengths, values, and passions, and how to communicate these attributes to build a compelling personal brand that resonates with your career goals. The session includes practical tips on using social media and other platforms to enhance visibility and influence.

Highlights:

1. Discover the key elements of a strong personal brand.
2. Learn how to align your brand with your career and leadership goals.
3. Explore strategies for enhancing your online presence.
4. Gain insights into maintaining authenticity while building your brand.

Workshop Facilitator

Vanessa Leung

Vanessa Leung is a Certified Self-Mastery Coach with a unique talent for helping women build authentic personal brands that align with their values and purpose. As a seasoned facilitator, she empowers heart-driven leaders to transform the way they approach branding, creating strategies that reflect their true selves while driving business growth. 

Vanessa has a gift for simplifying complex marketing concepts, allowing her clients to overcome emotional barriers, break through limiting beliefs, and build strong, lasting brands. Her “Receive, Trust, and Follow” model encourages women to tap into their intuition and creativity, helping them show up confidently and authentically in their business. When she’s not leading impactful workshops, you’ll find Vanessa hiking with her partner and dog, dancing at home, or enjoying a playful swing at the local park.

Leadership Workshop #4: Launching Your Own Venture

Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and community leaders, this workshop offers a step-by-step guide to turning ideas into viable businesses or new ventures. Participants will learn about the fundamentals of starting an enterprise, from idea generation to business planning and securing funding. The session includes insights from successful female entrepreneurs and provides practical tools to help you navigate the challenges of launching and growing a business or social venture.

Highlights:

1. Learn the basics of creating a business plan.
2. Explore different funding options and how to access them.
3. Understand the challenges and opportunities in entrepreneurship.
4. Network with other aspiring entrepreneurs and potential mentors.

Workshop Facilitator

Rasie Bamigbade

Rasie is the founder of RB Jumpstart Coaching and RB Jumpstart Mentorship & Youth Leadership Training Society, a leadership coach, book coach, speaker, and author of Amazon Bestsellers, “Lead In Your Truth” & “Heal On Your Terms.” In collaboration with organizations and companies, Rasie helps corporate leaders lead their teams more effectively through self leadership and support authors with their book construction process from idea to publishing.

She is giving back to our world through her Youth Mentorship Program; she is empowering and helping our youth take control of their lives by providing mentorship resources and access to reliable mentors.

Closing the opportunity gap in leadership is at the core of Rasie’s work. She does this through her successful coaching programs, youth mentorship program, speaking services and bestselling books. Work and play is essential. At play, Rasie loves travelling to different cities around the world. One of her favorite trips was to Cartagena, Colombia. The rich culture, historic buildings and welcoming residents was absolutely awesome. Listening to anyone’s story brings her joy. Writing, spending time with family & friends, dancing and watching the sunset/sunrise adds an extra mix of joy in her life.

Guest Speaker

Jessica Taylor

Jessica Taylor is the Clinic Director of Pleasant Hypnosis in Vancouver, dedicated to helping real people make real changes in their lives, and unlock their full potential through hypnosis. As a Consulting Hypnotist and member of The National Guild of Hypnotists and Master Hypnotist Society, Jessica is skilled in advanced hypnosis, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and even Stage Hypnosis—bringing a blend of science, skill, and artistry to her practice. 

In addition to one-on-one sessions, she delivers engaging talks and workshops, covering topics such as stress management, overcoming limiting beliefs, and communicating effectively.

Her personal experience with hypnosis has profoundly impacted her life, creating an insatiable curiosity for human potential. Her expertise has enabled her to facilitate real change in health, relationships, self-esteem, work, and daily life, in both herself and others. Whether it’s weight loss, quitting smoking, boosting self-esteem, managing stress, improving sleep, or fostering personal growth, Jessica is deeply committed to using hypnosis as a tool to help her clients achieve the outcomes that once felt out of reach.

Panelists

Kara Kalin

Kara Kalin

Founder of Shift Change, is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and EMDR Certified Therapist with over two decades of experience in mental health and high performance. A former Team Canada coach and national-level athlete, she pioneers EMDR therapy, focusing on online mental health support for frontline workers.

Queen Alexis

Queen is the founder of Queen’s Academy and has been teaching musical theatre children’s programs since 2013. Queen is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts from Capilano University and soon a Teaching Degree from SFU. Queen fervently believes that every child should experience the transformative power of the performing arts, which is why she founded Queen’s Academy. When not teaching, she can be found on hikes with her dog, eating chocolate, and playing board games!

Isabella Wen

Isabella Wen is a Grade 11 student from RE Mountain Secondary School driven by a passion for gender equity and the belief that adversity can be a seed for growth. She empowers young girls through various mediums such as assisting with women’s health research with a UBC affiliate, co-hosting a feminist podcast with over 70 episodes, and co-developing an AI exploration course for young girls at Soroptimist International. 

Additionally, she has led public speaking and leadership workshops for young girls around the world, including Afghanistan, the USA, and right at home, Langley. With the belief that women can do anything they put their mind to, Isabella aims to continue her life-long learning journey while inspiring other girls to step out of their comfort zone.

Seminar #1: Women in Politics: Leadership & Representation

This seminar explores the intersection of women and politics, highlighting the critical role women play in shaping the political landscape. The panel discussions will feature women who have made significant strides in political arenas, from grassroots organizing to holding public office. Participants will learn about the challenges and opportunities in navigating political spaces, the importance of women’s representation, and strategies for building a political career. Whether you’re considering running for office or advocating for change, this seminar will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to make a difference in politics.

Highlights

1. Gain insights into the challenges women face in politics and how to overcome them.
2. Learn about the pathways to political leadership and public office.
3. Understand the importance of women’s representation in politics.
4. Hear firsthand experiences from women leaders in various political roles.

Keynote speaker & moderator

Anita Huberman

Anita Huberman, Former CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade for 18 years, has led one of Canada’s top Boards of Trade, serving over 6,000 members. Recognized as a top leader in Vancouver, she’s an advocate for Surrey businesses, holds numerous awards, and serves on multiple national and regional councils.

Panel

Councillor Linda Annis

I have been a proud resident of Surrey for the past 20 years. I am currently the Executive Director of Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers and have held several senior marketing and communications roles in the corporate and not for profit sectors.

Councillor Pardeep Kooner

Serving Surrey since 2002, Pardeep specializes in sound fiscal management with over 20 years in accounting. A Trinity Western University alumnus and owner of an audit firm, she aims to implement a 30-year financial plan, ensure fiscal prudence, drive economic growth, and promote ethical governance in Surrey.

Councillor Teri Towner

Teri, an active Coquitlam City Councillor since 2014, is deeply committed to community service and leadership. She serves with a wide variety of organizations on numerous committees and boards, focusing on housing, accessibility and volunteerism across the Tri-Cities. She co-founded the Tri-Cities Friends of Refugees Task Group which has since evolved into the In Your Corner ReStart Support Society.

Rochelle Prasad

Rochelle is an Education Rights and Youth Engagement Activist who ran for Surrey City Councillor in 2022. She is the founder of SPARK Foundation, recognized as Canada’s top life education program for young people, and her work has earned recognition from prestigious institutions such as the United Nations and the Royal Family.

Laura Dupont

Laura, a two-term Port Coquitlam City Councillor, environmental advocate, and founding member of the Wondrous Tree Fellowship, has spent decades supporting local environmental groups. She is now running for a federal seat in Coquitlam–Port Coquitlam in the 2025 election, focusing on food security and climate action.

Seminar #2: Women Driving Economic Growth: Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Policy

This seminar focuses on the role of women in driving economic development, both locally and globally. Through panel discussions with economists, business leaders, and policymakers, participants will explore how women can contribute to and benefit from economic growth. The seminar will cover topics such as entrepreneurship, access to capital, and the impact of economic policies on women. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how to navigate the economic landscape and leverage opportunities for advancement in business and economic leadership.

Highlights:

1. Explore the role of women in shaping economic policies and development.
2. Learn about the challenges and opportunities in women’s entrepreneurship.
3. Understand how to access capital and resources for business growth.
4. Discuss the impact of economic policies on women and how to advocate for change.

Keynote Speaker

Bukkie Adewuyi

Bukkie is the Vice President for Internal Audit and Risk Advisory at Aritzia. She is a seasoned certified auditor and chartered accountant with over twenty-one years’ professional experience in audit, risk management, finance and strategy. Prior to Aritzia, she spent over three years with Prospera Credit Union, as the VP of Internal Audit and then the VP, Finance and Business Intelligence where she collaborated with other leaders to actualize operational initiatives to achieve strategic objectives around organizational health, member and employee experience.

Before joining Prospera, she built up a wealth of consulting experience in South Africa with major audit firms, PwC, Deloitte and Grant Thornton, excelling as a Partner and Director, dedicated to helping her clients improve their internal controls improvement, manage risks proactively while entrenching good corporate governance.

Bukkie is probably best known for her work in the community. She immigrated to Canada in 2019 and has distinguished herself as a passionate community advocate. She works with various organizations to elevate focus on immigrants, minority groups, minority businesses and women. In 2023, she was named a “YWCA woman of distinction”, raising $10,000 to assist women with childcare and early education. She was also identified as one of the “2022 Top 50 female leaders in Vancouver” by the women we admire. She is a board member of the Black Opportunity Fund and Impact Toolbox as well as a member of the Women in Business Committee of the Surrey Board of Trade, amongst others. She is part of the team behind the successful Annual Metro Vancouver Black Business Expo that seeks to showcase the contributions of minority businesses. Through these organizations, she contributes to policy conversations and leading change that fosters equity, diversity and inclusion in our economy.

Moderator

Zahra Alani

Zahra Alani is a seasoned media professional with nearly two decades of broadcast experience, most known for her work as a Weather Anchor with CBC and CTV. She has established herself as a trusted voice, covering a range of topics internationally.

Beyond media, Zahra excels in public relations, managing communications for high-profile individuals and international campaigns. She has led advocacy campaigns promoting mental health, gender-based violence awareness, and sustainability, with a strong focus on women’s empowerment and inclusivity. Zahra also serves on the American Meteorological Society’s Climate Services Committee, championing climate awareness and sustainable solutions, and on the Ismaili Council of Canada, supporting regional teams with external communications for charity events.

Panelists

Alyssa Barry

Alyssa is the President at irlabs. She has over 15-years of investor relations, capital markets and corporate communications experience. An activist by nature, she has raised over $1 billion of capital, led some of Canada’s most successful activism campaigns, managed M&A transactions and enhanced board governance frameworks.

She was formerly Head of Strategy – Operations and Communications at Artis REIT, Vice-President of Capital Markets and Communications at Sandpiper Group and Manager, Investor Relations at Amica Mature Lifestyles Inc. She is known for her agility, creative prose and relentless pursuit of success for her clients

Dr. Sandra Song

Dr. Sandra Song

Newly appointed Dean at University Canada West, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience, Dr. Song will share insights from her extensive work across government, academic, and non-profit sectors. As Chair of the Public Policy & Administration Programs at Adler University, Dr. Song has been instrumental in shaping strategic initiatives that advance economic and social well-being.

Her expertise in policy development, strategic planning, and project management spans national and international contexts, including research collaborations in Japan, Brazil, Colombia, and Portugal.

Dr. Song’s background includes 12 years as a senior policy analyst for the federal government and leadership roles in public health at Concordia University of Edmonton. Her work has earned her four Fulbright Community Leadership Program grants, reflecting her commitment to fostering partnerships between government, academia, and community organizations.

In this seminar, Dr. Song will explore the role of women in shaping economic policies, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and advocating for equitable access to capital and resources. With a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Alberta and extensive research and teaching experience, Dr. Song is well-positioned to offer valuable perspectives on how women can drive economic development both locally and globally.

Mary Ellen Schaafsma

Founder of Purpose Pathways Consulting and Purpose Advisor to over 40 businesses, Mary Ellen helps them uncover and integrate their optimal Social Purpose into the core of their company. Purpose elevates the reason your business exists beyond the transactional to begin to power good in the world by doing business. 

That is good for business, good for society, and good for the economy.  She brings a depth of knowledge on the range of benefits of having a Social Purpose, and she has a contagious enthusiasm for empowering leaders to change the world through business. Connect and follow Mary Ellen on LinkedIn to learn more about her and about Social Purpose.

Seminar #3: Building Strong Communities: Leadership, Inclusivity, and Social Change

As a foundation for social change and leadership, this seminar emphasizes community building. The panel will include community leaders, activists, and organizers who have successfully fostered strong, resilient communities. Participants will learn about the strategies and tools necessary for building inclusive communities, the role of leadership in community development, and the importance of grassroots organizing. The discussions will also address the challenges of community engagement and how to overcome them to create lasting impact.

Highlights:

1. Learn strategies for effective community engagement and development.
2. Explore the role of leadership in fostering strong, inclusive communities.
3. Discuss the challenges of grassroots organizing and how to overcome them.
4. Hear from community leaders who have successfully built resilient communities.

Keynote speaker & moderator

Maggie Stewart

Maggie Stewart (she/her) brings over a decade of experience leading diverse teams and fostering inclusive communities across environmental research, social change initiatives, and educational programs. As the Manager of Volunteer Services at the Vancouver Aquarium, she is recognized for her talent in inspiring shared visions, driving positive change, and actively engaging with diverse communities. Maggie is excited to share her experiences and insights, while facilitating an engaging and impactful session.

Panelist

Mithila Karnik-Adarkar

With a decade-plus long experience as an artiste manager/publicist in the Indian film industry, Mithila Karnik-Adarkar moved to Canada in 2016 with her husband. Mithila lives in Port Coquitlam in BC, has served on the city’s EDI Roundtable Advisory and has been instrumental, as a community volunteer, in passionately advocating for diversity and inclusion through cultural events, networking experiences and women’s day initiatives. She’s mother to a pliant boxer (named Hagrid!) and a strong-willed daughter and together with her husband, loves her neighborhood breweries, trails and the library! 

Paola Murillo

As a multilingual International Business and Marketing executive, Paola Murillo shapes the impact of the Latino community in Canada as the Executive Director of the non-profit organization Latincouver. With over 18 years of global experience, she spearheads initiatives like Carnaval del Sol, advocating for entrepreneurs, especially women, and fulfilling the potential of Latinos.

Christina Wong

Christina brings a diverse skillset, reflecting a combination of: 17 years of involvement in the DTES community, 13 years of sponsorship experience, a major in Psychology from SFU and eight years working with people who face disabilities. She is very fortunate to have a passionate and competent team to help achieve a mission that is much greater than us – empowering entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and beat the odds. Recently, she was nominated for the 2024 YWCA Women of Distinction in the Community Champion category and a recipient for the Globe and Mail Top 50 Business Changemaker recipients in Canada.

Shelley-Anne Vidal

With over 15 years as a coach, educator and community-building experience Shelley-Anne Vidal approaches life with curiosity, kindness, and an open mind. Shelley is a knowledge seeker who enjoys learning about leadership, social justice, anti-racism and how to bring communities together.

She is the author of Amazon’s best-selling book, ”  “You Only Need One Good Egg, Manifesting A Miracle.”  As the founder of ACT by Vidal, Shelley brings her charismatic and direct approach to coaching, speaking and training sessions while holding space for leaders to walk with boldness and confidence.

Outside of work, Shelley enjoys going on adventures with her daughter.

Josette Tina Annette

Josette Tina Annette is a proud member of Whonnock First Nations, deeply committed to preserving and revitalizing her ancestral heritage. With a passion for cultural rejuvenation, she works tirelessly to promote Indigenous traditions, language, and teachings for future generations. As a leader in community initiatives, Josette empowers youth to honor their roots while integrating modern skills for resilience and growth. 

Her dedication to unity and cultural restoration reflects her vision of a thriving Whonnock community, connected to its sacred lands and traditions. Josette’s work embodies her belief in the power of heritage to inspire strength and transformation.

Seminar #4: Women Advocating for Social Change

This seminar focuses on equipping women with the tools and inspiration to advocate for meaningful social change. The event will feature a keynote address and an engaging panel discussion with trailblazing women leaders driving impact in their communities. Participants will explore strategies for amplifying their voices, building advocacy networks, and taking action for equity and justice. Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned change-maker, this seminar offers insights and connections to empower your journey.  

Highlights:

1. Gain inspiration and actionable insights from influential speakers championing social change.
2. Hear diverse perspectives from women leaders actively shaping policies and communities.
3. Ask your burning questions and learn directly from the keynote and panelists.
4. Connect with like-minded participants and potential mentors to grow your advocacy network.

Keynote Speaker

Levonne Abshire

Levonne Abshire (she/her), BEd.,MEd., COC, is a second-generation Filipina whose family immigrated to Canada in the 1960s and has lived as uninvited guests on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples: Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh for over 40 years.

Throughout her 20+ year career as a leader and administrator in education and health across K-12 schools, post-secondary education, and non-profit organizations, she has been committed to promoting individual and organizational wellbeing and belonging.  Beyond her education and professional experience, it is her lived experience as a racialized woman and lone parent to an Autistic son that drives her commitment to equity and inclusion in educational policy. She is a disability advocate and ally in her community, volunteering with Family Support Institute BC, BCEdAccess, and Canucks Autism Network, organizations that support families and individuals with disabilities. Levonne holds a Master of Educational Administration and Leadership with graduate research on inclusive education, transition planning, and self-advocacy. For a more detailed CV and resume, connect with Levonne at linkedin.com/in/levonneabshire

Panelists

Elana Epstein

Elana is committed to guide people to awaken. As a Reiki practitioner and spiritual guide in Vancouver BC, her greatest passion lies in helping individuals find their deepest place of connection to themselves and their relationship to life. As a mother of someone in recovery Elana spends much of her time supporting mothers and sharing her own story of hope and healing. 

Elana is passionate about doing whatever she can to end the stigma around addiction and promote awareness around the disease that is gripping our city. As a guide and mentor for moms supporting their loved one through addiction or any challenge with meeting life on life’s terms, Elana creates an environment that is safe, intuitive and inspiring. A session with Elana will deepen your understanding of what it means to journey within to discover the pathway towards peace.

Balbir Gurm

Balbir Gurm, RN, EdD, Fellow of the Canadian Nursing Academy is a global thinker and visionary leader, a dedicated nursing professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in British Columbia Canada. Dr. Gurm engages in knowledge translation work, takes research, and helps integrate this knowledge into practices. 

She is best known for starting the Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) and the 28 chapters eBook on critical knowledge about relationship violence: Gurm et al (2024), Making Sense of a Global Pandemic: Relationship Violence & Working Together Towards a Violence Free Society- 2nd Ed. Dr. Gurm’s many community and leadership honours include two YWCA Awards, Nurse and Nurse Practitioners of BC Award (NNPBC) of Excellence in Nursing Innovation and BC’s Community Achievement Award.

Annie Ohana

Annie Ohana is Anti Oppression Curriculum Specialist, Community Organizer, and Secondary Public School Educator in Surrey BC. She is currently Indigenous Department Head at LA Matheson Secondary. She holds a Masters Degree in Equity Studies and has academic expertise in Criminal Justice, Political Science, Harm Reduction, and Anti Oppression Education. 

She is a recipient of multiple awards for her intersectional justice work across every jurisdiction locally to internationally, from the Prime Minister’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017, Anti Racism Leader through Province of BC and most recently a Top 10 finalist of the Global Teacher Prize.

Conflict Resolution with Adrienne Danielson

Join us for this “Ask Me Anything” (“AMA”) online event about Conflict Resolution with facilitator Adrienne Danielson. Adrienne brings over 25 years’ experience working within the field of relationships and communication. Her work spans over a broad range of environments including corporations, non-profits, professional organizations and with individuals. See Adrienne’s full bio here.

Join this event to learn about Conflict Resolution, and bring your questions!