Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard, PhD, C.M., O.N.S. Speaks at the 4th Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture on Inclusive Leadership & Equitable Justice
Alex Ihama
Global Strategist, Executive Coach, Inspirational Speaker, Bestselling Author, Executive Director @ Canadian Congress, School of Greatness & Credit Union Transformation (25+ Years of Impact in 300+ Cities in 30+ Nations)
The Hon. Wanda Thomas Bernard, PhD, C.M., O.N.S., will be taking the virtual stage at the Canadian Congress' 4th Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture to speak on Inclusive Leadership, Equitable Justice, and the Next Decade.
Her journey to this momentous occasion has been marked by both personal and professional challenges, yet she has emerged as a beacon of resilience and advocacy.
At just 12 years old, Senator Bernard faced a devastating loss when her father tragically passed away in a horrific car accident.
What made this already difficult time even more challenging was the altercation she had with him earlier that fateful morning—a memory that still lingers with haunting clarity to this day.
In addition to coping with this profound loss, Senator Bernard was thrust into a new environment when she left the segregated Partridge River School in East Preston, Nova Scotia, to attend the integrated Graham Creighton High School in Cherry Brook.
The transition from the familiar surroundings of her previous school to a new, unfamiliar setting added another layer of complexity to her already tumultuous adolescence.
Despite these adversities, Senator Bernard's resilience shone through. Her innate sense of humour and gift for storytelling became invaluable assets, helping her navigate through challenging conversations and experiences with grace and depth. Through it all, she emerged as a beacon of strength and resilience, inspiring others with her unwavering determination and unwavering spirit.
To register for our 4th Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture, click here.
During this exciting and quite honourable fireside chat at our 4th Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture, we aim to delve into her remarkable journey to becoming a social justice icon, navigating a myriad of challenges from her childhood, through her impactful work in academia, to her esteemed position in the Senate chamber.
Throughout her illustrious career, Senator Bernard has been a tireless champion of social justice and racial equity. Her groundbreaking achievements include being the first African Nova Scotian woman appointed to the Senate of Canada, where she proudly represents her province and hometown of East Preston. Her unwavering dedication to these causes has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Nova Scotia.
Join us for this enlightening and timely discussion as we explore Senator Bernard's perspectives on leadership, public policy, and the ongoing quest for social justice. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with one of Canada's most influential voices on issues of equity and inclusion.
To register for this transformative symposium, with a focus on Inclusive Leadership, Equitable Justice, Business Strategy, Government and Politics and other critical aspects, click here and secure your spot today. Let's come together to learn, grow, and advocate for a more just and equitable world.
Another well-accomplished leader who will be stopping by for a fireside chat at our 4th Annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture is none other than Ray Williams.
There is more to Ray Williams than meets the eye besides being the founder, chair, or vice-chair of so many impressive organizations and endeavours.
Known as the former Vice-Chairman of Financial Markets at the prestigious National Bank and the co-founder and current Chair of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF), his leadership prowess goes beyond the boardroom to the kitchen where he loves to cook!
Ray seems to be way busier than before he retired from the National Bank of Canada and has immersed himself in what he loves best - honourable activities like empowering youths and volunteering everywhere possible.
We are honoured to be having him once again at our Canadian Congress and International School of Greatness platform, this time for a fireside chat with him about a topic that is so dear to his heart- social justice.
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I admire Ray for far too many reasons but one thing that draws me and many people to him is his infectious smile. It's big, bright, and incredibly welcoming. But don't let that fool you - behind that warm smile lies a leader with immense depth and insight.
Ray has a unique ability to seamlessly transition from lighthearted laughter to delivering powerful and thought-provoking speeches. He articulates why diversity isn't just a social imperative, but a strategic business decision that significantly impacts the bottom line of organizations and nations alike.
Mr. Williams is profoundly dedicated to community engagement, with a special focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives. He holds positions on numerous leadership boards, including the 100 Strong Foundation.
Additionally, he serves as executive-in-residence at the Rotman School of Management and sits on the board of the George Brown College Foundation, as well as Toronto Global.
Notably, he played a pivotal role as the past and founding president of the Canadian Association of Urban Financial Professionals, a key professional trade organization for minorities within the financial services sector.
ABOUT THE ANNUAL GEORGE FLOYD MEMORIAL LECTURE BY THE CANADIAN CONGRESS & SCHOOL OF GREATNESS
The Canadian Congress on Inclusive Diversity and Workplace Equity and the International School of Greatness introduced the annual George Floyd Memorial Lecture in 2020.
This event serves as a platform for leaders in government, corporations, institutions, and communities across Canada and beyond to gather and discuss their personal and corporate advancements in social justice and economic empowerment, aligning with the United Nations General Assembly resolution 68/237, which designates 2015 to 2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent.
The Canadian Congress is a prominent national organization with a vast network of over 300 academic and experiential experts, researchers, and facilitators specializing in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).
We offer a comprehensive strategic framework tailored to organizations, institutions, and government entities aiming to eradicate systemic racism from their brand, culture, systems, policies, and management practices.
To register for this transformative symposium, with a focus on Inclusive Leadership, Equitable Justice, Business Strategy, Government and Politics and other critical aspects, click here and secure your spot today. Let's come together to learn, grow, and advocate for a more just and equitable world.
For more information, contact alex@canadiancongressondiversity.ca or visit www.canadiancongressondiversity.ca
Other media capture of our George Floyd Memorial Lecture includes:
To register for this transformative symposium, with a focus on Inclusive Leadership, Equitable Justice, Business Strategy, Government and Politics and other critical aspects, click here and secure your spot today. Let's come together to learn, grow, and advocate for a more just and equitable world.