SpeakUP! International Inc.

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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 ...

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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 heartwa...

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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...

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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...

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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 educ...

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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 ...

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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 ...

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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...

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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 th...

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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 M...

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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 nurt...

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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 ...

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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 pivota...

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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 enga...

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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, inc...

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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, ac...

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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...

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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 comba...

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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&apos...