How can effective communication redefine the preteen years for both parents and children? Join us as we sit down with Marcus Higgs, a communication coach who has dedicated his life to helping parents navigate the complexities of their children's formative years. Marcus's journey from missionary teacher to founder of Searching Future Press is nothing short of inspiring! He sheds light on the critical challenges of preteen years, such as identity breaking, collaborative mistrust, and emotional man...
Jun 02, 2024•54 min
Embarking on an entrepreneurial adventure can often feel like navigating uncharted waters, but Kathryn Smith , an Atlanta-based marketing guru, is here to light the beacon. Join us as Kathryn unravels her personal odyssey from the security of corporate America to the thrill and tumult of creating her own marketing consulting firm, Walton Birch , and the Black Lady Business School . She brings to the table not just her triumphs but also her trials, offering an authentic look at the determination ...
May 27, 2024•51 min
As a mentor and beacon of inspiration, Josee Smith joins us to unravel her transformative journey from reader to published author. Facing down the specters of perfectionism and self-doubt, she shares how the solitude of the pandemic became the crucible for her anticipated novel's creation. Her candid reflection resonates deeply, especially for black and brown working moms she now guides towards their literary aspirations, punctuating the necessity of perseverance in the writing craft. In the hea...
May 19, 2024•47 min
Join the conversation with the esteemed Professor George JS Dei loving known as Professor Nana Dei , a beacon of knowledge for Black African Canadian education, as he graces our platform with his insights that meld the essence of resistance with the transformative power of education. We venture beyond the confines of conventional learning and into the heart of community empowerment, where Professor Dei amplifies the voices of the past and the promise of the future. His perspective as a tradition...
May 03, 2024•1 hr 2 min
When education meets passion, transformative stories emerge. Our latest guest, Marion Lowe McLean , embodies this blend with her stirring journey from Jamaican roots to her influential role in Quebec's community service and education. As the founder of the Quebec Board of Black Educators and Les Passerelles Globale Bridges , Marion's narrative is rich with the themes of solidarity, empowerment, and the quest for inclusiveness in education. She opens up about the profound impact of her parents' l...
Apr 20, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Desiree King's story is not just about real estate; it's a story of passion and dedication to helping seniors live comfortably in their golden years. As our esteemed guest, Desiree opens up about the nuances of assisting older adults in downsizing and making informed property decisions that resonate with their desire to age in place. Her approach is a heartwarming blend of professional expertise and personal care, deeply informed by her Trinidadian grandmother's migration story and the resilienc...
Apr 18, 2024•50 min
When a high school talent show sparked a flame that would ignite Dwayne Morgan's future, he couldn't have predicted the blaze of inspiration he would become for so many. Today, we're honored to host this two-time Canadian National Poetry Slam champion and Order of Ontario recipient as he shares his journey from discovery to mastery in the world of spoken word. Elevate your spirit as Dwayne recounts the transformative power of mentorship and how it propelled him not just to find his voice but to ...
Apr 15, 2024•1 hr
Dance isn't just an art—it's a healer, a teacher, and a bridge across generations. Debbie Nichols-Skerritt of Markham, Ontario, joins us to weave her personal tapestry of life as a registered massage therapist and professional dancer. Her company, "For your Temple," serves as a sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of dance and the restorative touch of massage therapy coalesce. Debbie's narrative is a testament to the cultural heartbeat of the African Caribbean diaspora, where dance is the language...
Apr 05, 2024•50 min
Embark on a journey through the eyes of Eugene Williams Jr. , whose transition from the glitz of childhood stardom to the gratifying world of education and authorship illustrates the profound impact of life choices and familial influence. His story unfolds, revealing how a blend of early fame and the wisdom of his nurturing parents carved his future as a celebrated educator and writer. Williams' story is not just about personal triumph but a beacon for the transformative power of dedication to c...
Mar 29, 2024•56 min
Join the conversation with the formidable Ms. Rosemary Sadlier , a vanguard for diversity, equity, and inclusion, as we celebrate the indomitable spirit that brought Black History Month to national prominence in Canada. Weaving a tapestry of perseverance and hope, Rosemary recounts her pivotal role in lobbying for its federal recognition, building upon legacies left by Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the Canadian Negro Women's Association. Her determination paved the way for a more inclusive narrative...
Mar 24, 2024•44 min
From a vibrant Jamaican upbringing to the esteemed courts of Birmingham, Dawn Brathwaite's legal odyssey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As you tune in, you'll be captivated by her account of resilience and soaring triumphs in healthcare law. Her journey is a testament to the power of ambition, as she evolved from an aspiring attorney to a luminary in her field, all while maintaining an unshakeable connection to her Caribbean roots. Our conversation with Dawn takes a deeper look at the comple...
Mar 21, 2024•56 min
Celebrate International Women's Day with us as we sit down with the insightful Natasha Henry-Dixon , assistant professor of African Canadian history at York University and a Vanier Scholar. Natasha captivates us with her journey, starting with the stories of Emancipation Day and leading up to her 25-year teaching career. Her stories aren't just anecdotes; they're transformative experiences that have fueled her mission to weave African Canadian history into our educational fabric, enlightening st...
Mar 20, 2024•57 min
Embark on a transformative exploration with jeewan chanicka , whose leadership as the Director of Education at the Waterloo Region District School Board is marked by a trailblazing commitment to inclusivity and cultural responsiveness. Within the walls of our learning institutions, jeewan's voice is a clarion call for systemic change, challenging us to lean into the discomfort of dismantling racism and privilege. His poignant accounts from the trenches of education policy and management bring to...
Mar 17, 2024•1 hr 10 min
Donna McCurvin's journey is nothing short of enthralling. She's lived multiple lives in one—chemist, environmental protector, and cultural curator—and in this episode, she invites us into her world of passion-fueled transformation. We kick off with stories from the heart of Toronto's music scene, where Donna's IRIE Music Festival and Toronto Urban Music Festival offering a stage for local talents to shine during the city's most colorful weekend. As we pivot from the lively festival grounds to th...
Mar 15, 2024•52 min
When Nataniel Turner recounts the story of his son visualizing soccer goals to triumph on the field, it's more than heartwarming—it's a blueprint for success. Our latest episode isn't just about soccer, though. It's a deep dive into the realm of intentional parenting, where Nataniel's personal journey intertwines with potent strategies for nurturing a child's aspirations. As we converse, Nataniel, a beacon of diverse experiences and wisdom, sheds light on the art of raising a Renaissance person ...
Mar 14, 2024•47 min
From the small coastal nation of Guyana to the highest echelons of the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Frank Douglas's life is a chronicle of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to equality. In our latest episode, we're honored to host this trailblazing figure as he recounts the challenges of his early life and the formative moments that led to his academic and professional achievements, including his pioneering work in drug discovery that introduced over 25 drugs to the market. Ou...
Mar 11, 2024•56 min
Have you ever uncovered a hidden gem within your life's challenges? Fadhwa Yusuf joins us to illuminate how every twist and setback can be a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Her journey from self-questioning to becoming a transformational life coach is a testament to the power of personal metamorphosis. Fadhwa recounts the heartwarming story of her pivotal role in the Syrian Resettlement Program, providing a tapestry of compassion and community support that speaks to the very essence of...
Mar 07, 2024•51 min
Embark on a powerful journey with Priscilla Manful, the trailblazing CEO of the Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto, as she narrates her remarkable voyage from Ghana to influential leader, setting a new standard for child welfare. This episode unveils Priscilla's transformative approach to leadership, one which harmonizes accountability, community engagement, and psychological safety. Through her eyes, we grasp the intricate layers of spearheading an organization that champions equity and...
Mar 05, 2024•56 min
Have you ever considered the immeasurable power a community holds when it unites for the cause of education? Charis Newton-Thompson , with her deeply rooted ties to the historic village of Buxton, Guyana, joins us to illuminate just how transformative that power can be. Witness her reflection on a journey marked by educational triumphs and the spirit of empowerment, including the awe-inspiring story of six pregnant women who stopped a train to make their voices heard. Charis's narrative is not j...
Feb 12, 2024•1 hr
As the sun sets on another day, we're reminded that darkness often gives way to the most brilliant of dawns. This is the essence of resilience—a theme poignantly explored in our heart-to-heart with Krystal Clark, a Texas-based life coach who faced the shadow of childhood sexual abuse and emerged into the light of healing and empowerment. Her powerful narrative, accentuated by the cathartic act of journaling, gives voice to the silent battles many endure, laying bare the complex weave of family t...
Feb 08, 2024•52 min
From the rigorous training grounds of West Point to the skies as a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, and into the legal arena as an attorney, Ben Grimes has epitomized leadership in every facet of his career. Today, he joins us to weave the narrative of his pivot from the courtroom to coaching, imparting the leadership tenets of trust, transparency, and empathy. His tale is as heartfelt as it is instructive, tracing back to the influence of his mother's resilience on his philosophy of service. As you...
Feb 07, 2024•51 min
When grief becomes a catalyst for healing, it can transform lives. This is the essence of what our guest, psychotherapist Candace Oglesby, brings to our latest heartfelt episode of SpeakUP! International. Candace opens up about her own profound journey through personal loss to become a healer, offering an intimate look at how a challenging childhood—with a father combating muscular dystrophy and a mother facing health issues—guided her to a career in therapy. As we traverse her story, Candace's ...
Feb 01, 2024•47 min
When the echoes of historical injustices still resonate through the corridors of our present, it's leaders like Mr. Michael Bowe who light the path to understanding and change. We were honored to have such a distinguished advocate for equity and inclusion on SpeakUP! International, sharing the deep-seated challenges that marginalized communities face. Michael's insights on the legacy of systemic oppression and the intersecting experiences within Black and Indigenous populations underscore the ne...
Feb 01, 2024•45 min
Have you ever searched for yourself within the pages of a story, only to feel invisible? Nadia Hohn, a beacon of diverse storytelling in children's literature, joins us to recount her ascent from a young girl dreaming of Jamaica to an acclaimed author and educator. Her vibrant tales, including "Malaika's Costume", are not just stories; they're windows into a world where every child can see themselves heroically reflected. As we navigate Nadia's dual life of shaping young minds in the classroom a...
Jan 31, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Embark on a compelling journey with Mr. Antwaun Thompson , as he brings an infectious zeal for mentoring tomorrow's leaders straight from North Carolina (USA) to our podcast. Discover Antwaun 's blueprint for a rounded education that extends beyond the classroom, with essential skills like financial literacy, communication, and conflict resolution at its heart. Antwaun doesn't hold back on the pivotal role of parents, championing guidance over friendship. He invites listeners to embrace the powe...
Jan 22, 2024•51 min
Embark on an auditory journey through the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of Mr. Robert Small , a beacon of inspiration within the Black Canadian community. As a former law school aspirant turned pivotal artist, Small's narrative is a compelling tapestry that weaves together the threads of adversity, artistry, and the relentless pursuit of one's true calling. In the face of great challenges, including a severe accident that redirected his career path, he reveals how his art has become not jus...
Jan 20, 2024•59 min
Embarking on a journey filled with resilience and empowerment, we welcomed an incredible guest to SpeakUP! International, a Deaf Psychologist and Mental Health Advocate who's become a beacon of hope. Her story of transforming the challenges of hearing loss into triumphant academic achievements in psychology serves as a testament to her indomitable spirit. We cover the vital aspects of breaking down communication barriers, the significance of American Sign Language (ASL), and the personalized met...
Jan 18, 2024•48 min
When Kevin Lawler hung up his corporate hat to weave a tapestry of change for marginalized communities, he didn't just step into philanthropy; he leaped with both feet. On SpeakUP! International Inc, we're honored to host this champion for change, who shares his exhilarating transition and the profound work he's undertaken with the Pinball Clemons Foundation. From the art of problem-solving to creating sustainable employment, Kevin tells us how his business acumen is now fueling a fire for socia...
Jan 17, 2024•50 min
Embark on an enlightening journey with the dynamic Evelyn Myrie , a heralded champion of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), as we unravel the complexities of fostering inclusive environments in various sectors. Discover the pivotal differences between equity and equality through Evelyn's expert lens, illuminating the essence of tailored support for individual advancement within organizations. Her profound experience is a beacon for those navigating the nuances of EDI, steering us through th...
Jan 16, 2024•36 min
Every child is a universe of potential, yet the world of education can sometimes orbit too strictly around a one-size-fits-all sun. Nicole Cummings-Morgan, our esteemed guest and a veritable supernova in the field of early childhood education, illuminates the myriad ways children learn and the importance of celebrating these differences. Her journey from crafting a poem to authoring a book that champions the individual learning journey is a testament to her dedication. Nicole's insights from ove...
Jan 12, 2024•49 min
