Title Sponsor
September 24
IDEA are core values that many organizations strive to embody within the workplace.
Diversity accounts for who is represented in the workplace in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, physical ability and neurodiversity.
Equity refers to fair treatment for all people while taking into consideration each person's unique circumstances.
Inclusion denotes how individuals experience the workplace and to what extent organizations enable employees to make meaningful contributions.
Accessibility is about creating a welcoming and productive workplace for individuals to fulfill their role safely and efficiently.
Research shows that companies that fully practice and demonstrate IDEA are better able to respond to challenges, win top talent and meet the needs of different customer bases. For organizations and people leaders, this requires ensuring diverse talent is well represented, leadership is held accountable, transparency and equal opportunity principles are followed, microaggressions and biases are eliminated, and a sense of belonging is consistently fostered.
In this context, HR professionals are often at the forefront of driving change and policy updates. Yet, to do so meaningfully calls for organizational structures to evolve and adapt. Indeed, there are definite gaps at the intersection of HR and DEI. These gaps are worsened by instances of DEI falling to HR leaders without a competency framework. Making matters more complex are emerging workplace considerations such as AI and its increased use in practice on the one hand, and hard-coded business structures that are slow to change on the other.
Attend this micro-conference to explore the best practices and lessons learnt by organizations that are successfully implementing IDEA practices.
Developed in partnership with:
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Registration is FREE for HRPA members.
HRPA's member learning programming goal for 2024 is all about quality and enhanced value for your HRPA membership. This year's micro-conferences (February, April, September) will be FREE virtual events to members, aiming to offer up a total of 12 CPD hours. That's a savings of $120 per event! Not a member yet? Become one today.
Why attend:
- Learn how to effectively implement IDEA principles at work.
- Become skilled at identifying gaps in and comprehensive solutions to enhance workplace inclusivity, diversity, equity and accessibility.
- Gain a thorough understanding of how IDEA in practice makes business better.
- Enhance your ability to measure the effectiveness of IDEA initiatives.
Who should attend:
- HR Managers and HR Directors who lead the planning and execution of HR and DEI strategies and legal compliance in this domain.
- HR professionals who need to understand legal rights and responsibilities in their work, such as HR Recruitment Specialists, HR Managers, HR Directors, HR Business Partners and HR Tech Specialists.
- Organizational Development professionals and others who lead or execute OD strategies and programs in their organizations.
- Business Leaders who are responsible for leadership training and development, IDEA at work and policy development.
- HR professionals who are involved with organizational change, employee well-being and IDEA principles.
- Non-HR professionals who manage workplaces or worker issues.
- Other ancillary professionals in the IDEA space, including employment lawyers, students of law, IDEA professionals, Health and Safety professionals, etc.
Date: Tuesday, September 24
Duration: 8:45 AM – 1:40 PM
Virtual participation: Live stream via ON24
CPD Hours: 4.0
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM | Welcome, Land Acknowledgement and Event Kickoff
Speakers: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA; Thomas Puthenmadhom (he/him), Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
9:00 AM – 9:20 AM | Company Culture: Authenticity and Inclusion
The pursuit of diversity in the workplace and inclusion is not merely a buzzword; it’s a commitment that demands tangible actions and genuine intentions. Great Place To Work will highlight considerations to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Speaker: Alison Grenier, Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place To Work® Canada
9:20 AM – 10:00 AM | IDEA: More than a Trend
HR is now taking on the lion’s share of IDEA and needs help. What issues and trends are on the horizon and how can you prepare and adapt?
Speakers: Sarah Saska, PhD, MA, BAH, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Feminuity, Steph Rebello, MDes, BA, Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Hiring Transparency
When an organization is more transparent with their employees, they tend to be more successful in employee engagement and have a stronger company culture. Hiring new talent is an important first step to creating trust and a positive relationship. Let’s discuss new ways you can enhance your hiring transparency, other than just posting a salary range, that will truly champion diversity and inclusion.
Moderator: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Speaker: Jenn Bouyoukos, Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Tech Break
10:45 AM – 11:45 AM | Panel: The Intersection of IDEA and HR
Some companies are embracing initiatives with IDEA experts while others are not able to. Instead, most oversight falls to the HR team creating this intersection of responsibility and implementation. Policies and HR mandates can often impose restrictions to IDEA progress. Where does it fall apart and how do we get HR the support they need to roll out IDEA into their job responsibilities? And in cases were IDEA is an independent unit, who do they report to: HR or the CEO?
Moderator: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Speaker: Ingrid Palmer, Chief Diversity Officer, Realize Canada, Anne-Marie Pham, CEO, Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
11:45 AM – 12:00 PM | Tech Break
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM | Leveraging AI: Ease the Load and Scale IDEA
This session explores the intentions of AI and its tactical use and considerations of IDEA. How can you effectively integrate AI into HR processes and what are the impacts on IDEA? Let’s explore a live AI rollout process together.
Speaker: Khushboo Khushalani (she/her), Student, University of Toronto
12:45 PM – 1:30 PM | Panel: Scaling AI in Business
Defining HR’s critical role in scaling AI across the business is a people problem, not IT! Experts will share insights into how biases in AI can undermine IDEA initiatives and perpetuate systemic inequalities and provide awareness to course correct AI uses.
Moderator: Sarah Saska, PhD, MA, BAH, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Speaker: Zachary Nunn, Founder & CEO, Living Corporate; Gina Uppal, Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
1:30 PM – 1:40 PM | Closing Remarks and Event Wrap Up
Speaker: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Conference Fees
This event is FREE for HRPA members! Not a member yet? Become one today.
Not sure of your schedule? Register virtually for on demand access!
Whether you attend the virtual sessions live or not, registering will give you access to the conference recordings. On-demand viewings qualify for CPD hours and recordings are made available for one year post-event date.
| Virtual | Members and Students | Non-Members |
|---|---|---|
| Save My Spot February 15 – June 13 | Free | |
| Early Bird June 14 – July 25 | Free | |
| Regular July 26 onward | Free | $120 |
Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP
Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Diane has more than 20 years of experience in HR and has enjoyed working in a wide range of industries from startups to Fortune 100 companies. Diane holds the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation as awarded by the HRPA. She currently brings her passion for HR to her current role at the HRPA, where her focus runs the range of the workplace experience for all HRPA employees, “keeping the lights on in HR” and delivering on the association’s strategic initiatives.
Diane is proud that HRPA has been certified as a Great Place to Work by GPTW Canada for the last four years and is looking forward to having that continue and improve. Prior to joining HRPA, she spent six years in the telecommunications space working with companies such as Bell and Rogers, as Director of HR. She is passionate about IDEA (inclusivity, diversity, equity, accessibility) and supporting leaders and staff promote organizational objectives. Diane likes to bring her whole self to work and is enthusiastic about relationships as she brings a genuine love of people, especially our differences, to her daily interactions.
Jenn Bouyoukos (She/Her)
Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
Jenn Bouyoukos is a savvy award-winning HR professional with more than 25 years of experience in leading and transforming HR teams at high-performing media, tech and financial services companies, including eOne, Workbrain, SAP, Manulife, Kobo, and RBC.
Ranked among the top 100 HR leaders globally by HRD, a definitive list of the best and brightest, Top 50 Women Leaders in Toronto, and two-time Canadian HR Team of the Year and Corporate Social Responsibility finalist. A visionary, proactive, dynamic business savvy executive with over 25 years of global experience leading human resource teams at industry-leading private and publicly-traded companies. Strong HR expertise building and leading functions in Canada, the US, UK, and across EMEA and APAC, with close to 20 M&A transactions along the way.
Exceptional track record of designing impactful HR models that support the achievement of organizational business goals and objectives. Spearheaded significant technology environment and cultural transformation to Agile Scrum and Kaban as early as 2010. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams at all levels to ensure critical synergies that result in scaling a highly engaged and performing workforce. Natural engaged, empathetic leader with a “lead-by-example” hands-on management style that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Trusted business partner, confidant, in-demand content contributor thought leader and speaker.
A certified Prosci Change Manager, Certified Diversity Executive, M&A expert, and HR tech pioneer, Jenn is recognized as a global expert in her field by organizations such as LinkedIn, Forbes.com, and Socialmedia.org. She is a Forbes Council member and advisor for VC and PE firms and start-ups in the HR technology space. Passionate about students and education, Jennifer is a past President of CACEE (Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers), a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Toronto, and a mentor at Futurepreneur.
Alison Grenier
Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place to Work® Canada
Alison Grenier is a Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research for Great Place to Work® Canada. With over 15 years’ experience in the field, Alison leverages GPTW’s unparalleled data library to uncover emerging workplace trends and insights. She is skilled in high-level analysis of qualitative and quantitative data and supports some of Canada’s leading organizations with specific and actionable feedback to improve their workplace culture. Prior to joining the Institute, Alison worked in a variety of human resource roles in the manufacturing, not-for-profit and service sectors. She holds a Master’s degree in Workplace Learning and Change.
Khushboo Khushalani (She/Her)
Student, University of Toronto
Hi, I’m Khushboo. Driven by a passion to make a positive impact on those around me, I’ve embraced diverse roles to bring this mission to life. With a foundation in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, my academic background has given me a strong understanding of the dynamics of workplace environments and the people within them.
Recently, I’ve cultivated an interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way we work. By blending my expertise in human resources with my passion for AI, I’m dedicated to creating innovative solutions that foster greater productivity and efficiency. My goal is to bridge the gap between technology and people, ensuring that AI not only enhances business outcomes but also enriches the employee experience.
When I’m not delving into AI and HR, I’m enjoy scuba diving and exploring fashion which keeps me inspired and balanced!
Zachary Nunn (He/Him)
CEO and Founder, Living Corporate
Zach Nunn is the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, an experiences management company that uses data analytics, e-learning, and brand storytelling to support employee engagement and market trust for mid-size and multi-national organizations. Despite all of this work, his biggest passions are his wife Candis and daughters, Emory and Iman.
Ingrid Palmer (she, her)
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B), Chief Officer
Ingrid Palmer (she, her) is an award winning speaker, bestselling author, and social justice consultant. She is the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B) Chief Officer at Realize Canada.
As a visually impaired former foster kid Mrs. Palmer founded Focus On Ability to combat ableism, challenge bias, promote universal belonging, drive systemic change and debunking myths and stereotypes of stigmatized identities. Her acclaimed storytelling and writing highlights traditionally unheard perspectives of intersectionality, marginalized leadership, and community capacity.
Ingrid’s dedication to advancing EDI principle is deeply rooted in her living experiences of early childhood trauma, foster care, disability, and gender based violence. As an advocate, Mrs. Palmer has championed issues in the housing, poverty, education, disability, and child welfare sectors. She has been instrumental in initiatives of poverty reduction, decent work, and gender equity.
Ingrid is committed to participating in creating pathways to success and opportunities for communities and individuals facing adversity. Her background in service includes Board Chair of the Child Welfare PAC, and Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities.
As a social justice consultant Ingrid has supported government, corporate and community organizations with community outreach and equity development. Ingrid has appeared on CTV, Global News, Breakfast Television and in publications such as Toronto Life, the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail.
Anne-Marie Pham, MPA (She, Her)
CEO, CCDI
Anne-Marie Pham, CEO of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) has over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities and workplaces. She specializes in equity, diversity, and inclusion, bringing expertise from roles at Spectra Energy, the City of Calgary, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Anne-Marie holds an MPA, a BA in Sociology, and a senior HR Professional certification with SHRM. She is a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (Tool).
Anne-Marie is a wife, mother of two, and an active community leader, supporting civic participation, mentoring, and leadership development among immigrants, racialized minorities, women, and youth. She received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee award for community service in 2013 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF). She was also a member of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Action Committee from 2020 to 2023.
Thomas Puthenmadhom (He/Him)
Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
Thomas Puthenmadhom is an Outreach professional who has over 9 years of experience in supporting newcomer settlement and employment. He currently works as an Outreach & Communications Coordinator at Humber College.
As part of this role, Thomas develops and executes outreach strategies to connect newcomers, refugees, youth, and other equity-seeking groups with employment-focused programs and community resources.
Thomas immigrated to Canada from Mumbai (India) and is an alumnus of Humber College himself.
Stephanie Rebello (She/Her)
Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
Steph is a design researcher and strategy leader who has worked on addressing systemic challenges related to access, exclusion, and environmental and social impact in various sectors, including non-profit, corporate, and public institutions. Steph has extensive experience supporting clients in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Her practice focuses on inclusive design, and she has spent the last ten years developing community-centred co-design tools, research, and strategic frameworks to help clients balance equity and social impact with transformation and growth.
Steph holds a degree in Sociology from Western University and a Masters of Design for Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University. She has been featured in the Toronto Star, the Service Design Network, and the Academy for Social Innovation. Currently, Steph serves as a fractional executive at Feminuity, a consultancy that partners with technology startups to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion across their business, while simultaneously leading inclusive design research and client projects at OCADU CO, a futures design consultancy.
Sarah Saska (She, Her)
CEO, Feminuity
Dr. Sarah Saska is an academic turned entrepreneur who co-founded Feminuity, North America’s leading equity-based consulting firm, a decade ago. With over 150 clients globally, including top technology startups and Fortune 500 companies such as Autodesk, Google, and Shopify, Feminuity has played a pivotal role in designing inclusive products and transforming company cultures.
Sarah’s journey began in academia, where she conducted pioneering doctoral research on the ethical and equitable design of emerging technologies and innovation. Her research underscored the critical need to embed equity-based principles at the core of new and emerging tech, which inspired the creation of Feminuity.
Sarah is a strong advocate for a socio-technical approach to AI design and use, emphasizing the integration of social considerations with technical innovation. Beyond leading Feminuity, she remains deeply connected to academic and scientific communities, actively supporting research in the Canadian tech sector and advising NASA’s Astrophysics Division, where she evaluates equity efforts in scientific proposals.
Recognized as one of the Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, The Bay Street Bull’s Women of the Year, and one of Culture Amp’s “Diversity and Inclusion Leaders You Should Know,” Sarah is shaping the future of work and technology. Her insights have been featured on CBC’s The National, Fast Company, and podcasts like Betakit and Girlboss. Her forthcoming book on the future of work is set to be published in 2025.
Gina Uppal (She/Her)
Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
Gina is a visionary entrepreneur and community organizer with a decade of experience leading transformative initiatives across public and private sectors. In her role, she empowers womxn entrepreneurs and executives to scale their businesses while pursuing their passions.
Gina’s strong academic foundation in health equity and public policy, gained from Western University and American University (Washington, DC) as a Killam Fulbright scholar, informs her understanding of complex social issues. She has published in the Journal of Ethnicity and Health and led youth engagement for a national CIHR research project. Her ties to academia continued through her role as a Partnerships Consultant for the Lab for Knowledge Translation at Western University’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Over the past decade, Gina has driven conversations on equity, justice, and systems change across healthcare, nonprofit, and technology sectors. At MaRS Discovery District, she developed coaching programs that help entrepreneurs embrace social innovation. She also contributed to cross-sector labor market research on the future of work and learning. Gina also led the development of the sector’s first Diversity & Inclusion report, collaborating with 50 employer partners and research partner Feminuity to create a shared evaluation tool and learning report. In addition to launching her own consultancy and executive coaching studio, she has helped scale a marketing agency in South America focused on innovators in emerging markets, served as interim CMO for the health-tech startup Bowhead Health, and consulted on marketing, community organizing, and brand strategy for social impact-driven startups. In 2021, she launched a social impact studio to support On Canada Project (OCP), a social justice advocacy platform on Instagram. Within two years, she secured over $400k in projects, building a social enterprise to fund OCP’s independent media. This work deepened her involvement in social justice community organizing, with a focus on engaging millennials and Gen Z in meaningful activism.
Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP
Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Diane has more than 20 years of experience in HR and has enjoyed working in a wide range of industries from startups to Fortune 100 companies. Diane holds the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation as awarded by the HRPA. She currently brings her passion for HR to her current role at the HRPA, where her focus runs the range of the workplace experience for all HRPA employees, “keeping the lights on in HR” and delivering on the association’s strategic initiatives.
Diane is proud that HRPA has been certified as a Great Place to Work by GPTW Canada for the last four years and is looking forward to having that continue and improve. Prior to joining HRPA, she spent six years in the telecommunications space working with companies such as Bell and Rogers, as Director of HR. She is passionate about IDEA (inclusivity, diversity, equity, accessibility) and supporting leaders and staff promote organizational objectives. Diane likes to bring her whole self to work and is enthusiastic about relationships as she brings a genuine love of people, especially our differences, to her daily interactions.
Jenn Bouyoukos (She/Her)
Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
Jenn Bouyoukos is a savvy award-winning HR professional with more than 25 years of experience in leading and transforming HR teams at high-performing media, tech and financial services companies, including eOne, Workbrain, SAP, Manulife, Kobo, and RBC.
Ranked among the top 100 HR leaders globally by HRD, a definitive list of the best and brightest, Top 50 Women Leaders in Toronto, and two-time Canadian HR Team of the Year and Corporate Social Responsibility finalist. A visionary, proactive, dynamic business savvy executive with over 25 years of global experience leading human resource teams at industry-leading private and publicly-traded companies. Strong HR expertise building and leading functions in Canada, the US, UK, and across EMEA and APAC, with close to 20 M&A transactions along the way.
Exceptional track record of designing impactful HR models that support the achievement of organizational business goals and objectives. Spearheaded significant technology environment and cultural transformation to Agile Scrum and Kaban as early as 2010. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams at all levels to ensure critical synergies that result in scaling a highly engaged and performing workforce. Natural engaged, empathetic leader with a “lead-by-example” hands-on management style that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Trusted business partner, confidant, in-demand content contributor thought leader and speaker.
A certified Prosci Change Manager, Certified Diversity Executive, M&A expert, and HR tech pioneer, Jenn is recognized as a global expert in her field by organizations such as LinkedIn, Forbes.com, and Socialmedia.org. She is a Forbes Council member and advisor for VC and PE firms and start-ups in the HR technology space. Passionate about students and education, Jennifer is a past President of CACEE (Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers), a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Toronto, and a mentor at Futurepreneur.
Alison Grenier
Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place to Work® Canada
Alison Grenier is a Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research for Great Place to Work® Canada. With over 15 years’ experience in the field, Alison leverages GPTW’s unparalleled data library to uncover emerging workplace trends and insights. She is skilled in high-level analysis of qualitative and quantitative data and supports some of Canada’s leading organizations with specific and actionable feedback to improve their workplace culture. Prior to joining the Institute, Alison worked in a variety of human resource roles in the manufacturing, not-for-profit and service sectors. She holds a Master’s degree in Workplace Learning and Change.
Khushboo Khushalani (She/Her)
Student, University of Toronto
Hi, I’m Khushboo. Driven by a passion to make a positive impact on those around me, I’ve embraced diverse roles to bring this mission to life. With a foundation in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, my academic background has given me a strong understanding of the dynamics of workplace environments and the people within them.
Recently, I’ve cultivated an interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way we work. By blending my expertise in human resources with my passion for AI, I’m dedicated to creating innovative solutions that foster greater productivity and efficiency. My goal is to bridge the gap between technology and people, ensuring that AI not only enhances business outcomes but also enriches the employee experience.
When I’m not delving into AI and HR, I’m enjoy scuba diving and exploring fashion which keeps me inspired and balanced!
Zachary Nunn (He/Him)
CEO and Founder, Living Corporate
Zach Nunn is the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, an experiences management company that uses data analytics, e-learning, and brand storytelling to support employee engagement and market trust for mid-size and multi-national organizations. Despite all of this work, his biggest passions are his wife Candis and daughters, Emory and Iman.
Ingrid Palmer (she, her)
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B), Chief Officer
Ingrid Palmer (she, her) is an award winning speaker, bestselling author, and social justice consultant. She is the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B) Chief Officer at Realize Canada.
As a visually impaired former foster kid Mrs. Palmer founded Focus On Ability to combat ableism, challenge bias, promote universal belonging, drive systemic change and debunking myths and stereotypes of stigmatized identities. Her acclaimed storytelling and writing highlights traditionally unheard perspectives of intersectionality, marginalized leadership, and community capacity.
Ingrid’s dedication to advancing EDI principle is deeply rooted in her living experiences of early childhood trauma, foster care, disability, and gender based violence. As an advocate, Mrs. Palmer has championed issues in the housing, poverty, education, disability, and child welfare sectors. She has been instrumental in initiatives of poverty reduction, decent work, and gender equity.
Ingrid is committed to participating in creating pathways to success and opportunities for communities and individuals facing adversity. Her background in service includes Board Chair of the Child Welfare PAC, and Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities.
As a social justice consultant Ingrid has supported government, corporate and community organizations with community outreach and equity development. Ingrid has appeared on CTV, Global News, Breakfast Television and in publications such as Toronto Life, the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail.
Anne-Marie Pham, MPA (She, Her)
CEO, CCDI
Anne-Marie Pham, CEO of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) has over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities and workplaces. She specializes in equity, diversity, and inclusion, bringing expertise from roles at Spectra Energy, the City of Calgary, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Anne-Marie holds an MPA, a BA in Sociology, and a senior HR Professional certification with SHRM. She is a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (Tool).
Anne-Marie is a wife, mother of two, and an active community leader, supporting civic participation, mentoring, and leadership development among immigrants, racialized minorities, women, and youth. She received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee award for community service in 2013 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF). She was also a member of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Action Committee from 2020 to 2023.
Thomas Puthenmadhom (He/Him)
Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
Thomas Puthenmadhom is an Outreach professional who has over 9 years of experience in supporting newcomer settlement and employment. He currently works as an Outreach & Communications Coordinator at Humber College.
As part of this role, Thomas develops and executes outreach strategies to connect newcomers, refugees, youth, and other equity-seeking groups with employment-focused programs and community resources.
Thomas immigrated to Canada from Mumbai (India) and is an alumnus of Humber College himself.
Stephanie Rebello (She/Her)
Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
Steph is a design researcher and strategy leader who has worked on addressing systemic challenges related to access, exclusion, and environmental and social impact in various sectors, including non-profit, corporate, and public institutions. Steph has extensive experience supporting clients in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Her practice focuses on inclusive design, and she has spent the last ten years developing community-centred co-design tools, research, and strategic frameworks to help clients balance equity and social impact with transformation and growth.
Steph holds a degree in Sociology from Western University and a Masters of Design for Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University. She has been featured in the Toronto Star, the Service Design Network, and the Academy for Social Innovation. Currently, Steph serves as a fractional executive at Feminuity, a consultancy that partners with technology startups to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion across their business, while simultaneously leading inclusive design research and client projects at OCADU CO, a futures design consultancy.
Sarah Saska (She, Her)
CEO, Feminuity
Dr. Sarah Saska is an academic turned entrepreneur who co-founded Feminuity, North America’s leading equity-based consulting firm, a decade ago. With over 150 clients globally, including top technology startups and Fortune 500 companies such as Autodesk, Google, and Shopify, Feminuity has played a pivotal role in designing inclusive products and transforming company cultures.
Sarah’s journey began in academia, where she conducted pioneering doctoral research on the ethical and equitable design of emerging technologies and innovation. Her research underscored the critical need to embed equity-based principles at the core of new and emerging tech, which inspired the creation of Feminuity.
Sarah is a strong advocate for a socio-technical approach to AI design and use, emphasizing the integration of social considerations with technical innovation. Beyond leading Feminuity, she remains deeply connected to academic and scientific communities, actively supporting research in the Canadian tech sector and advising NASA’s Astrophysics Division, where she evaluates equity efforts in scientific proposals.
Recognized as one of the Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, The Bay Street Bull’s Women of the Year, and one of Culture Amp’s “Diversity and Inclusion Leaders You Should Know,” Sarah is shaping the future of work and technology. Her insights have been featured on CBC’s The National, Fast Company, and podcasts like Betakit and Girlboss. Her forthcoming book on the future of work is set to be published in 2025.
Gina Uppal (She/Her)
Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
Gina is a visionary entrepreneur and community organizer with a decade of experience leading transformative initiatives across public and private sectors. In her role, she empowers womxn entrepreneurs and executives to scale their businesses while pursuing their passions.
Gina’s strong academic foundation in health equity and public policy, gained from Western University and American University (Washington, DC) as a Killam Fulbright scholar, informs her understanding of complex social issues. She has published in the Journal of Ethnicity and Health and led youth engagement for a national CIHR research project. Her ties to academia continued through her role as a Partnerships Consultant for the Lab for Knowledge Translation at Western University’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Over the past decade, Gina has driven conversations on equity, justice, and systems change across healthcare, nonprofit, and technology sectors. At MaRS Discovery District, she developed coaching programs that help entrepreneurs embrace social innovation. She also contributed to cross-sector labor market research on the future of work and learning. Gina also led the development of the sector’s first Diversity & Inclusion report, collaborating with 50 employer partners and research partner Feminuity to create a shared evaluation tool and learning report. In addition to launching her own consultancy and executive coaching studio, she has helped scale a marketing agency in South America focused on innovators in emerging markets, served as interim CMO for the health-tech startup Bowhead Health, and consulted on marketing, community organizing, and brand strategy for social impact-driven startups. In 2021, she launched a social impact studio to support On Canada Project (OCP), a social justice advocacy platform on Instagram. Within two years, she secured over $400k in projects, building a social enterprise to fund OCP’s independent media. This work deepened her involvement in social justice community organizing, with a focus on engaging millennials and Gen Z in meaningful activism.
Please complete our sponsor submission form here.
Contact Adam Hart, Business Development Manager, to learn more about partnership or sponsorship opportunities.
Tel: 416.923.2324 ext. 7353
Email: ahart@hrpa.ca
The Accessibility Institute is a unique cross-portfolio centre of excellence in accessibility in Canada specializing in research and development, training and consulting, and community engagement focused on accessibility for persons with disabilities regionally, provincially and nationally. We also serve as the national office of the Canadian Accessibility Network (CAN). We bring a wealth of experience and expertise in research, community engagement, and knowledge mobilization relating to disability inclusion, accessibility accommodations, and universal access practices.
Most recently, we are pleased to share the launch of the Professional Education for Accessibility Competence (PEAC) {pronounced p-ee-k} program, which is a non-credit program designed to bridge the gap between accessibility awareness and workplace operations. Focusing on upskilling professionals, PEAC emphasizes key competencies in workplace accessibility, confidently empowering you and your organization to implement practices and move beyond compliance to inclusion.
The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) is a national charity established in 2013 with the mandate of building a more inclusive Canada. We envision a world where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect and where everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources.
We believe that diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and justice are essential for building strong and healthy workplaces, schools and communities. We are committed to advocating for these values through education, training and action. By promoting understanding and inclusivity, CCDI strives to create a more equitable and just society for all.
Canadian Hearing Services is the country’s leading provider of programs, services, education, and products that enable the Deaf and hard of hearing community to overcome barriers to participation. Building on 84 years of experience, we deliver leading-edge accessibility solutions, clinical and social services. We proudly offer scholarships to students in need across the country, and fund research that improves the quality of life for Deaf and hard of hearing people.
Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors. With a mission to build a better world by helping organizations become great places to work for all, the company serves businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 60 countries. By providing the most comprehensive and rigorous workplace culture certification, Great Place To Work identifies and recognizes outstanding workplace environments through its esteemed certification programs and the Best Workplaces™ lists.
Humber College is one of Canada’s leading polytechnic institutions. Humber’s Community Outreach & Workforce Development (COWD) division helps improve access to education and employment by breaking barriers for equity-deserving groups in our community.
We partner with industry & community to create accessible training to expedite the learner’s journey to meaningful employment.
Realize is a leader in research, advocacy and action addressing the range of complex barriers to inclusion people living with episodic disabilities experience, with a strong focus on employment. Realize convenes the Episodic Disabilities Forum — a pan-Canadian forum comprising people with living experience, national disability organizations, federal policy-makers, and researchers – and also leads a network of businesses focused on episodic disabilities in the workplace.
Why attend:
- Learn how to effectively implement IDEA principles at work.
- Become skilled at identifying gaps in and comprehensive solutions to enhance workplace inclusivity, diversity, equity and accessibility.
- Gain a thorough understanding of how IDEA in practice makes business better.
- Enhance your ability to measure the effectiveness of IDEA initiatives.
Who should attend:
- HR Managers and HR Directors who lead the planning and execution of HR and DEI strategies and legal compliance in this domain.
- HR professionals who need to understand legal rights and responsibilities in their work, such as HR Recruitment Specialists, HR Managers, HR Directors, HR Business Partners and HR Tech Specialists.
- Organizational Development professionals and others who lead or execute OD strategies and programs in their organizations.
- Business Leaders who are responsible for leadership training and development, IDEA at work and policy development.
- HR professionals who are involved with organizational change, employee well-being and IDEA principles.
- Non-HR professionals who manage workplaces or worker issues.
- Other ancillary professionals in the IDEA space, including employment lawyers, students of law, IDEA professionals, Health and Safety professionals, etc.
Date: Tuesday, September 24
Duration: 8:45 AM – 1:40 PM
Virtual participation: Live stream via ON24
CPD Hours: 4.0
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM | Welcome, Land Acknowledgement and Event Kickoff
Speakers: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA; Thomas Puthenmadhom (he/him), Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
9:00 AM – 9:20 AM | Company Culture: Authenticity and Inclusion
The pursuit of diversity in the workplace and inclusion is not merely a buzzword; it’s a commitment that demands tangible actions and genuine intentions. Great Place To Work will highlight considerations to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Speaker: Alison Grenier, Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place To Work® Canada
9:20 AM – 10:00 AM | IDEA: More than a Trend
HR is now taking on the lion’s share of IDEA and needs help. What issues and trends are on the horizon and how can you prepare and adapt?
Speakers: Sarah Saska, PhD, MA, BAH, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Feminuity, Steph Rebello, MDes, BA, Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Hiring Transparency
When an organization is more transparent with their employees, they tend to be more successful in employee engagement and have a stronger company culture. Hiring new talent is an important first step to creating trust and a positive relationship. Let’s discuss new ways you can enhance your hiring transparency, other than just posting a salary range, that will truly champion diversity and inclusion.
Moderator: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Speaker: Jenn Bouyoukos, Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Tech Break
10:45 AM – 11:45 AM | Panel: The Intersection of IDEA and HR
Some companies are embracing initiatives with IDEA experts while others are not able to. Instead, most oversight falls to the HR team creating this intersection of responsibility and implementation. Policies and HR mandates can often impose restrictions to IDEA progress. Where does it fall apart and how do we get HR the support they need to roll out IDEA into their job responsibilities? And in cases were IDEA is an independent unit, who do they report to: HR or the CEO?
Moderator: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Speaker: Ingrid Palmer, Chief Diversity Officer, Realize Canada, Anne-Marie Pham, CEO, Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
11:45 AM – 12:00 PM | Tech Break
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM | Leveraging AI: Ease the Load and Scale IDEA
This session explores the intentions of AI and its tactical use and considerations of IDEA. How can you effectively integrate AI into HR processes and what are the impacts on IDEA? Let’s explore a live AI rollout process together.
Speaker: Khushboo Khushalani (she/her), Student, University of Toronto
12:45 PM – 1:30 PM | Panel: Scaling AI in Business
Defining HR’s critical role in scaling AI across the business is a people problem, not IT! Experts will share insights into how biases in AI can undermine IDEA initiatives and perpetuate systemic inequalities and provide awareness to course correct AI uses.
Moderator: Sarah Saska, PhD, MA, BAH, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Speaker: Zachary Nunn, Founder & CEO, Living Corporate; Gina Uppal, Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
1:30 PM – 1:40 PM | Closing Remarks and Event Wrap Up
Speaker: Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP, Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Conference Fees
This event is FREE for HRPA members! Not a member yet? Become one today.
Not sure of your schedule? Register virtually for on demand access!
Whether you attend the virtual sessions live or not, registering will give you access to the conference recordings. On-demand viewings qualify for CPD hours and recordings are made available for one year post-event date.
| Virtual | Members and Students | Non-Members |
|---|---|---|
| Save My Spot February 15 – June 13 | Free | |
| Early Bird June 14 – July 25 | Free | |
| Regular July 26 onward | Free | $120 |
Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP
Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Diane has more than 20 years of experience in HR and has enjoyed working in a wide range of industries from startups to Fortune 100 companies. Diane holds the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation as awarded by the HRPA. She currently brings her passion for HR to her current role at the HRPA, where her focus runs the range of the workplace experience for all HRPA employees, “keeping the lights on in HR” and delivering on the association’s strategic initiatives.
Diane is proud that HRPA has been certified as a Great Place to Work by GPTW Canada for the last four years and is looking forward to having that continue and improve. Prior to joining HRPA, she spent six years in the telecommunications space working with companies such as Bell and Rogers, as Director of HR. She is passionate about IDEA (inclusivity, diversity, equity, accessibility) and supporting leaders and staff promote organizational objectives. Diane likes to bring her whole self to work and is enthusiastic about relationships as she brings a genuine love of people, especially our differences, to her daily interactions.
Jenn Bouyoukos (She/Her)
Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
Jenn Bouyoukos is a savvy award-winning HR professional with more than 25 years of experience in leading and transforming HR teams at high-performing media, tech and financial services companies, including eOne, Workbrain, SAP, Manulife, Kobo, and RBC.
Ranked among the top 100 HR leaders globally by HRD, a definitive list of the best and brightest, Top 50 Women Leaders in Toronto, and two-time Canadian HR Team of the Year and Corporate Social Responsibility finalist. A visionary, proactive, dynamic business savvy executive with over 25 years of global experience leading human resource teams at industry-leading private and publicly-traded companies. Strong HR expertise building and leading functions in Canada, the US, UK, and across EMEA and APAC, with close to 20 M&A transactions along the way.
Exceptional track record of designing impactful HR models that support the achievement of organizational business goals and objectives. Spearheaded significant technology environment and cultural transformation to Agile Scrum and Kaban as early as 2010. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams at all levels to ensure critical synergies that result in scaling a highly engaged and performing workforce. Natural engaged, empathetic leader with a “lead-by-example” hands-on management style that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Trusted business partner, confidant, in-demand content contributor thought leader and speaker.
A certified Prosci Change Manager, Certified Diversity Executive, M&A expert, and HR tech pioneer, Jenn is recognized as a global expert in her field by organizations such as LinkedIn, Forbes.com, and Socialmedia.org. She is a Forbes Council member and advisor for VC and PE firms and start-ups in the HR technology space. Passionate about students and education, Jennifer is a past President of CACEE (Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers), a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Toronto, and a mentor at Futurepreneur.
Alison Grenier
Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place to Work® Canada
Alison Grenier is a Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research for Great Place to Work® Canada. With over 15 years’ experience in the field, Alison leverages GPTW’s unparalleled data library to uncover emerging workplace trends and insights. She is skilled in high-level analysis of qualitative and quantitative data and supports some of Canada’s leading organizations with specific and actionable feedback to improve their workplace culture. Prior to joining the Institute, Alison worked in a variety of human resource roles in the manufacturing, not-for-profit and service sectors. She holds a Master’s degree in Workplace Learning and Change.
Khushboo Khushalani (She/Her)
Student, University of Toronto
Hi, I’m Khushboo. Driven by a passion to make a positive impact on those around me, I’ve embraced diverse roles to bring this mission to life. With a foundation in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, my academic background has given me a strong understanding of the dynamics of workplace environments and the people within them.
Recently, I’ve cultivated an interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way we work. By blending my expertise in human resources with my passion for AI, I’m dedicated to creating innovative solutions that foster greater productivity and efficiency. My goal is to bridge the gap between technology and people, ensuring that AI not only enhances business outcomes but also enriches the employee experience.
When I’m not delving into AI and HR, I’m enjoy scuba diving and exploring fashion which keeps me inspired and balanced!
Zachary Nunn (He/Him)
CEO and Founder, Living Corporate
Zach Nunn is the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, an experiences management company that uses data analytics, e-learning, and brand storytelling to support employee engagement and market trust for mid-size and multi-national organizations. Despite all of this work, his biggest passions are his wife Candis and daughters, Emory and Iman.
Ingrid Palmer (she, her)
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B), Chief Officer
Ingrid Palmer (she, her) is an award winning speaker, bestselling author, and social justice consultant. She is the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B) Chief Officer at Realize Canada.
As a visually impaired former foster kid Mrs. Palmer founded Focus On Ability to combat ableism, challenge bias, promote universal belonging, drive systemic change and debunking myths and stereotypes of stigmatized identities. Her acclaimed storytelling and writing highlights traditionally unheard perspectives of intersectionality, marginalized leadership, and community capacity.
Ingrid’s dedication to advancing EDI principle is deeply rooted in her living experiences of early childhood trauma, foster care, disability, and gender based violence. As an advocate, Mrs. Palmer has championed issues in the housing, poverty, education, disability, and child welfare sectors. She has been instrumental in initiatives of poverty reduction, decent work, and gender equity.
Ingrid is committed to participating in creating pathways to success and opportunities for communities and individuals facing adversity. Her background in service includes Board Chair of the Child Welfare PAC, and Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities.
As a social justice consultant Ingrid has supported government, corporate and community organizations with community outreach and equity development. Ingrid has appeared on CTV, Global News, Breakfast Television and in publications such as Toronto Life, the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail.
Anne-Marie Pham, MPA (She, Her)
CEO, CCDI
Anne-Marie Pham, CEO of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) has over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities and workplaces. She specializes in equity, diversity, and inclusion, bringing expertise from roles at Spectra Energy, the City of Calgary, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Anne-Marie holds an MPA, a BA in Sociology, and a senior HR Professional certification with SHRM. She is a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (Tool).
Anne-Marie is a wife, mother of two, and an active community leader, supporting civic participation, mentoring, and leadership development among immigrants, racialized minorities, women, and youth. She received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee award for community service in 2013 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF). She was also a member of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Action Committee from 2020 to 2023.
Thomas Puthenmadhom (He/Him)
Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
Thomas Puthenmadhom is an Outreach professional who has over 9 years of experience in supporting newcomer settlement and employment. He currently works as an Outreach & Communications Coordinator at Humber College.
As part of this role, Thomas develops and executes outreach strategies to connect newcomers, refugees, youth, and other equity-seeking groups with employment-focused programs and community resources.
Thomas immigrated to Canada from Mumbai (India) and is an alumnus of Humber College himself.
Stephanie Rebello (She/Her)
Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
Steph is a design researcher and strategy leader who has worked on addressing systemic challenges related to access, exclusion, and environmental and social impact in various sectors, including non-profit, corporate, and public institutions. Steph has extensive experience supporting clients in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Her practice focuses on inclusive design, and she has spent the last ten years developing community-centred co-design tools, research, and strategic frameworks to help clients balance equity and social impact with transformation and growth.
Steph holds a degree in Sociology from Western University and a Masters of Design for Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University. She has been featured in the Toronto Star, the Service Design Network, and the Academy for Social Innovation. Currently, Steph serves as a fractional executive at Feminuity, a consultancy that partners with technology startups to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion across their business, while simultaneously leading inclusive design research and client projects at OCADU CO, a futures design consultancy.
Sarah Saska (She, Her)
CEO, Feminuity
Dr. Sarah Saska is an academic turned entrepreneur who co-founded Feminuity, North America’s leading equity-based consulting firm, a decade ago. With over 150 clients globally, including top technology startups and Fortune 500 companies such as Autodesk, Google, and Shopify, Feminuity has played a pivotal role in designing inclusive products and transforming company cultures.
Sarah’s journey began in academia, where she conducted pioneering doctoral research on the ethical and equitable design of emerging technologies and innovation. Her research underscored the critical need to embed equity-based principles at the core of new and emerging tech, which inspired the creation of Feminuity.
Sarah is a strong advocate for a socio-technical approach to AI design and use, emphasizing the integration of social considerations with technical innovation. Beyond leading Feminuity, she remains deeply connected to academic and scientific communities, actively supporting research in the Canadian tech sector and advising NASA’s Astrophysics Division, where she evaluates equity efforts in scientific proposals.
Recognized as one of the Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, The Bay Street Bull’s Women of the Year, and one of Culture Amp’s “Diversity and Inclusion Leaders You Should Know,” Sarah is shaping the future of work and technology. Her insights have been featured on CBC’s The National, Fast Company, and podcasts like Betakit and Girlboss. Her forthcoming book on the future of work is set to be published in 2025.
Gina Uppal (She/Her)
Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
Gina is a visionary entrepreneur and community organizer with a decade of experience leading transformative initiatives across public and private sectors. In her role, she empowers womxn entrepreneurs and executives to scale their businesses while pursuing their passions.
Gina’s strong academic foundation in health equity and public policy, gained from Western University and American University (Washington, DC) as a Killam Fulbright scholar, informs her understanding of complex social issues. She has published in the Journal of Ethnicity and Health and led youth engagement for a national CIHR research project. Her ties to academia continued through her role as a Partnerships Consultant for the Lab for Knowledge Translation at Western University’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Over the past decade, Gina has driven conversations on equity, justice, and systems change across healthcare, nonprofit, and technology sectors. At MaRS Discovery District, she developed coaching programs that help entrepreneurs embrace social innovation. She also contributed to cross-sector labor market research on the future of work and learning. Gina also led the development of the sector’s first Diversity & Inclusion report, collaborating with 50 employer partners and research partner Feminuity to create a shared evaluation tool and learning report. In addition to launching her own consultancy and executive coaching studio, she has helped scale a marketing agency in South America focused on innovators in emerging markets, served as interim CMO for the health-tech startup Bowhead Health, and consulted on marketing, community organizing, and brand strategy for social impact-driven startups. In 2021, she launched a social impact studio to support On Canada Project (OCP), a social justice advocacy platform on Instagram. Within two years, she secured over $400k in projects, building a social enterprise to fund OCP’s independent media. This work deepened her involvement in social justice community organizing, with a focus on engaging millennials and Gen Z in meaningful activism.
Diane Biesinger (she/her), CHRP
Manager, People and Culture, HRPA
Diane has more than 20 years of experience in HR and has enjoyed working in a wide range of industries from startups to Fortune 100 companies. Diane holds the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation as awarded by the HRPA. She currently brings her passion for HR to her current role at the HRPA, where her focus runs the range of the workplace experience for all HRPA employees, “keeping the lights on in HR” and delivering on the association’s strategic initiatives.
Diane is proud that HRPA has been certified as a Great Place to Work by GPTW Canada for the last four years and is looking forward to having that continue and improve. Prior to joining HRPA, she spent six years in the telecommunications space working with companies such as Bell and Rogers, as Director of HR. She is passionate about IDEA (inclusivity, diversity, equity, accessibility) and supporting leaders and staff promote organizational objectives. Diane likes to bring her whole self to work and is enthusiastic about relationships as she brings a genuine love of people, especially our differences, to her daily interactions.
Jenn Bouyoukos (She/Her)
Chief People Officer, Bench Accounting
Jenn Bouyoukos is a savvy award-winning HR professional with more than 25 years of experience in leading and transforming HR teams at high-performing media, tech and financial services companies, including eOne, Workbrain, SAP, Manulife, Kobo, and RBC.
Ranked among the top 100 HR leaders globally by HRD, a definitive list of the best and brightest, Top 50 Women Leaders in Toronto, and two-time Canadian HR Team of the Year and Corporate Social Responsibility finalist. A visionary, proactive, dynamic business savvy executive with over 25 years of global experience leading human resource teams at industry-leading private and publicly-traded companies. Strong HR expertise building and leading functions in Canada, the US, UK, and across EMEA and APAC, with close to 20 M&A transactions along the way.
Exceptional track record of designing impactful HR models that support the achievement of organizational business goals and objectives. Spearheaded significant technology environment and cultural transformation to Agile Scrum and Kaban as early as 2010. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams at all levels to ensure critical synergies that result in scaling a highly engaged and performing workforce. Natural engaged, empathetic leader with a “lead-by-example” hands-on management style that fosters teamwork and collaboration. Trusted business partner, confidant, in-demand content contributor thought leader and speaker.
A certified Prosci Change Manager, Certified Diversity Executive, M&A expert, and HR tech pioneer, Jenn is recognized as a global expert in her field by organizations such as LinkedIn, Forbes.com, and Socialmedia.org. She is a Forbes Council member and advisor for VC and PE firms and start-ups in the HR technology space. Passionate about students and education, Jennifer is a past President of CACEE (Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers), a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Toronto, and a mentor at Futurepreneur.
Alison Grenier
Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research, Great Place to Work® Canada
Alison Grenier is a Senior Consultant and Head of Culture & Research for Great Place to Work® Canada. With over 15 years’ experience in the field, Alison leverages GPTW’s unparalleled data library to uncover emerging workplace trends and insights. She is skilled in high-level analysis of qualitative and quantitative data and supports some of Canada’s leading organizations with specific and actionable feedback to improve their workplace culture. Prior to joining the Institute, Alison worked in a variety of human resource roles in the manufacturing, not-for-profit and service sectors. She holds a Master’s degree in Workplace Learning and Change.
Khushboo Khushalani (She/Her)
Student, University of Toronto
Hi, I’m Khushboo. Driven by a passion to make a positive impact on those around me, I’ve embraced diverse roles to bring this mission to life. With a foundation in Industrial Relations and Human Resources, my academic background has given me a strong understanding of the dynamics of workplace environments and the people within them.
Recently, I’ve cultivated an interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way we work. By blending my expertise in human resources with my passion for AI, I’m dedicated to creating innovative solutions that foster greater productivity and efficiency. My goal is to bridge the gap between technology and people, ensuring that AI not only enhances business outcomes but also enriches the employee experience.
When I’m not delving into AI and HR, I’m enjoy scuba diving and exploring fashion which keeps me inspired and balanced!
Zachary Nunn (He/Him)
CEO and Founder, Living Corporate
Zach Nunn is the CEO and founder of Living Corporate, an experiences management company that uses data analytics, e-learning, and brand storytelling to support employee engagement and market trust for mid-size and multi-national organizations. Despite all of this work, his biggest passions are his wife Candis and daughters, Emory and Iman.
Ingrid Palmer (she, her)
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B), Chief Officer
Ingrid Palmer (she, her) is an award winning speaker, bestselling author, and social justice consultant. She is the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility Leading to Belonging *(IDEAL-2B) Chief Officer at Realize Canada.
As a visually impaired former foster kid Mrs. Palmer founded Focus On Ability to combat ableism, challenge bias, promote universal belonging, drive systemic change and debunking myths and stereotypes of stigmatized identities. Her acclaimed storytelling and writing highlights traditionally unheard perspectives of intersectionality, marginalized leadership, and community capacity.
Ingrid’s dedication to advancing EDI principle is deeply rooted in her living experiences of early childhood trauma, foster care, disability, and gender based violence. As an advocate, Mrs. Palmer has championed issues in the housing, poverty, education, disability, and child welfare sectors. She has been instrumental in initiatives of poverty reduction, decent work, and gender equity.
Ingrid is committed to participating in creating pathways to success and opportunities for communities and individuals facing adversity. Her background in service includes Board Chair of the Child Welfare PAC, and Vice Chair of the Council of Canadians with Disabilities.
As a social justice consultant Ingrid has supported government, corporate and community organizations with community outreach and equity development. Ingrid has appeared on CTV, Global News, Breakfast Television and in publications such as Toronto Life, the Toronto Star and the Globe and Mail.
Anne-Marie Pham, MPA (She, Her)
CEO, CCDI
Anne-Marie Pham, CEO of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) has over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities and workplaces. She specializes in equity, diversity, and inclusion, bringing expertise from roles at Spectra Energy, the City of Calgary, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Anne-Marie holds an MPA, a BA in Sociology, and a senior HR Professional certification with SHRM. She is a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (Tool).
Anne-Marie is a wife, mother of two, and an active community leader, supporting civic participation, mentoring, and leadership development among immigrants, racialized minorities, women, and youth. She received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee award for community service in 2013 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF). She was also a member of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Action Committee from 2020 to 2023.
Thomas Puthenmadhom (He/Him)
Outreach Coordinator, Humber College
Thomas Puthenmadhom is an Outreach professional who has over 9 years of experience in supporting newcomer settlement and employment. He currently works as an Outreach & Communications Coordinator at Humber College.
As part of this role, Thomas develops and executes outreach strategies to connect newcomers, refugees, youth, and other equity-seeking groups with employment-focused programs and community resources.
Thomas immigrated to Canada from Mumbai (India) and is an alumnus of Humber College himself.
Stephanie Rebello (She/Her)
Director of Design & Strategy, Feminuity
Steph is a design researcher and strategy leader who has worked on addressing systemic challenges related to access, exclusion, and environmental and social impact in various sectors, including non-profit, corporate, and public institutions. Steph has extensive experience supporting clients in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Her practice focuses on inclusive design, and she has spent the last ten years developing community-centred co-design tools, research, and strategic frameworks to help clients balance equity and social impact with transformation and growth.
Steph holds a degree in Sociology from Western University and a Masters of Design for Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University. She has been featured in the Toronto Star, the Service Design Network, and the Academy for Social Innovation. Currently, Steph serves as a fractional executive at Feminuity, a consultancy that partners with technology startups to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion across their business, while simultaneously leading inclusive design research and client projects at OCADU CO, a futures design consultancy.
Sarah Saska (She, Her)
CEO, Feminuity
Dr. Sarah Saska is an academic turned entrepreneur who co-founded Feminuity, North America’s leading equity-based consulting firm, a decade ago. With over 150 clients globally, including top technology startups and Fortune 500 companies such as Autodesk, Google, and Shopify, Feminuity has played a pivotal role in designing inclusive products and transforming company cultures.
Sarah’s journey began in academia, where she conducted pioneering doctoral research on the ethical and equitable design of emerging technologies and innovation. Her research underscored the critical need to embed equity-based principles at the core of new and emerging tech, which inspired the creation of Feminuity.
Sarah is a strong advocate for a socio-technical approach to AI design and use, emphasizing the integration of social considerations with technical innovation. Beyond leading Feminuity, she remains deeply connected to academic and scientific communities, actively supporting research in the Canadian tech sector and advising NASA’s Astrophysics Division, where she evaluates equity efforts in scientific proposals.
Recognized as one of the Women’s Executive Network’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, The Bay Street Bull’s Women of the Year, and one of Culture Amp’s “Diversity and Inclusion Leaders You Should Know,” Sarah is shaping the future of work and technology. Her insights have been featured on CBC’s The National, Fast Company, and podcasts like Betakit and Girlboss. Her forthcoming book on the future of work is set to be published in 2025.
Gina Uppal (She/Her)
Founder and President, Baljiwan Productions Inc.
Gina is a visionary entrepreneur and community organizer with a decade of experience leading transformative initiatives across public and private sectors. In her role, she empowers womxn entrepreneurs and executives to scale their businesses while pursuing their passions.
Gina’s strong academic foundation in health equity and public policy, gained from Western University and American University (Washington, DC) as a Killam Fulbright scholar, informs her understanding of complex social issues. She has published in the Journal of Ethnicity and Health and led youth engagement for a national CIHR research project. Her ties to academia continued through her role as a Partnerships Consultant for the Lab for Knowledge Translation at Western University’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Over the past decade, Gina has driven conversations on equity, justice, and systems change across healthcare, nonprofit, and technology sectors. At MaRS Discovery District, she developed coaching programs that help entrepreneurs embrace social innovation. She also contributed to cross-sector labor market research on the future of work and learning. Gina also led the development of the sector’s first Diversity & Inclusion report, collaborating with 50 employer partners and research partner Feminuity to create a shared evaluation tool and learning report. In addition to launching her own consultancy and executive coaching studio, she has helped scale a marketing agency in South America focused on innovators in emerging markets, served as interim CMO for the health-tech startup Bowhead Health, and consulted on marketing, community organizing, and brand strategy for social impact-driven startups. In 2021, she launched a social impact studio to support On Canada Project (OCP), a social justice advocacy platform on Instagram. Within two years, she secured over $400k in projects, building a social enterprise to fund OCP’s independent media. This work deepened her involvement in social justice community organizing, with a focus on engaging millennials and Gen Z in meaningful activism.
Please complete our sponsor submission form here.
Contact Adam Hart, Business Development Manager, to learn more about partnership or sponsorship opportunities.
Tel: 416.923.2324 ext. 7353
Email: ahart@hrpa.ca
The Accessibility Institute is a unique cross-portfolio centre of excellence in accessibility in Canada specializing in research and development, training and consulting, and community engagement focused on accessibility for persons with disabilities regionally, provincially and nationally. We also serve as the national office of the Canadian Accessibility Network (CAN). We bring a wealth of experience and expertise in research, community engagement, and knowledge mobilization relating to disability inclusion, accessibility accommodations, and universal access practices.
Most recently, we are pleased to share the launch of the Professional Education for Accessibility Competence (PEAC) {pronounced p-ee-k} program, which is a non-credit program designed to bridge the gap between accessibility awareness and workplace operations. Focusing on upskilling professionals, PEAC emphasizes key competencies in workplace accessibility, confidently empowering you and your organization to implement practices and move beyond compliance to inclusion.
The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) is a national charity established in 2013 with the mandate of building a more inclusive Canada. We envision a world where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect and where everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources.
We believe that diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and justice are essential for building strong and healthy workplaces, schools and communities. We are committed to advocating for these values through education, training and action. By promoting understanding and inclusivity, CCDI strives to create a more equitable and just society for all.
Canadian Hearing Services is the country’s leading provider of programs, services, education, and products that enable the Deaf and hard of hearing community to overcome barriers to participation. Building on 84 years of experience, we deliver leading-edge accessibility solutions, clinical and social services. We proudly offer scholarships to students in need across the country, and fund research that improves the quality of life for Deaf and hard of hearing people.
Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors. With a mission to build a better world by helping organizations become great places to work for all, the company serves businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 60 countries. By providing the most comprehensive and rigorous workplace culture certification, Great Place To Work identifies and recognizes outstanding workplace environments through its esteemed certification programs and the Best Workplaces™ lists.
Humber College is one of Canada’s leading polytechnic institutions. Humber’s Community Outreach & Workforce Development (COWD) division helps improve access to education and employment by breaking barriers for equity-deserving groups in our community.
We partner with industry & community to create accessible training to expedite the learner’s journey to meaningful employment.
Realize is a leader in research, advocacy and action addressing the range of complex barriers to inclusion people living with episodic disabilities experience, with a strong focus on employment. Realize convenes the Episodic Disabilities Forum — a pan-Canadian forum comprising people with living experience, national disability organizations, federal policy-makers, and researchers – and also leads a network of businesses focused on episodic disabilities in the workplace.
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