SpeakUP! International Inc.

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 als...

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, punc...

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 pa...

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 inclusivene...

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 ...

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...

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 testamen...

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...

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 Associ...

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 Ca...

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...

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 a...

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...

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 be...

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 pionee...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...