Marci Ien is Canada’s Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, and the Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre – a community she has proudly represented since 2020. She is a passionate advocate for underserved communities in Canada, and around the world, with an award-winning journalism and television career spanning three decades.

As Minster, she remains focused on improving the lives of women, girls, youth and 2SLGBTQI+ communities across Canada.

Reza Pourvaziry is an Architect with over 20 years of experience, including as an international urban researcher focusing on the concept of architecture and sustainability. Reza established the International Art & Architecture Research Association (IAARA) in 2002 to work and conduct research pertaining to urban architecture, habitat, and settlements, with a focus on sustainability, multiple international architecture awards. 

He created numerous development projects and programs and started working as the member of Steering Committee of UN-Habitat’s best practices since 2004. Designted by the Under-Secretary-General of the UN and former Executive Director of UN-Habitat as the First Global Advocate of UN-Habitat in 2016 for his contributions globally. He established the Middle East Regional Center for Best Practice and Local Leadership from 2012 to 2014. 

Presently, he is the Founder and Chair of Urban Economy Forum since 2018, and is working on urban development projects globally. Reza established strategic partnerships between United Nations and the Government of Canada to establish the World Urban Pavilion in Regent Park, a collaborative initiative between the UEF and UN-Habitat, supported by the Government of Canada and The Daniels Corporation. The Pavilion was officially launched on April 21, 2020. 

Ilda is the Director of Programs at the Urban Economy Forum (UEF). With over 20 years of expertise in urban planning and program management, Ilda has a wealth of experience working with the public and private sector. She is dedicated to fostering collaborative efforts with leaders on both national and global scales to advance crucial concepts related to urban economy and sustainable municipal finance. This commitment aligns with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on SDG 11, aiming to create inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities.

Ilda holds a master's degree in environmental studies from York University and was a registered planner with the Ontario Planners Professional Institute (OPPI) for eight years. Her enthusiasm lies in engaging with diverse stakeholders worldwide, ensuring the inclusivity of all voices in decision-making processes for city development. Her ultimate goal is to contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, leaving no one behind in the pursuit of sustainable urban economy and development.

Fazileh Dadvar serves as Chief of Research and Development at UEF and Head of Networking and Capacity Building at WUP, she is instrumental in organizing the flagship Annual Forums at UEF, fostering connections with various national and international universities, and managing developmental projects and events within the organization. She also is leading capacity building and partnerships at the World Urban Pavilion in collaboration with UN-Habitat, powered by Daniels, at Regent Park. In these roles, With a Ph.D. in Regional and Rural Geography, Fazileh brings over 25 years of experience as a professor at the University of Tehran. Her extensive publications span Gender Geography, Regional and Rural Planning, and Tourism Planning, with a particular focus on Rural Tourism. Fazileh has collaborated with international journals for over two decades. She also has a rich background in working closely with local communities, conducting extensive research on rural communities, especially within the context of Iran.

Her areas of expertise include Geography and Regional Development, Geography and Rural Planning, Gender Geography, Sustainable Development, Tourism Planning, and Empowerment of Local Communities. Additionally, Fazileh is affiliated with York University, focusing on the Cluster of Home, Identity, and Belonging at the Center for Feminist Research. Her diverse experiences and academic contributions underscore her commitment to advancing knowledge in these critical areas.

Eduardo López Moreno, is co-Director of the World Urban Pavilion in Toronto, Canada. He worked for 25 years for the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi, Kenya, and retired as Director of Research and Innovation. He was the representative of the Agency in Mexico and Cuba from 2020 and 2021.

Dr. Moreno has over 35 years of academic and professional experience in housing and urban development policies, institutional analysis, global monitoring, and equity and urban poverty issues.

Dr. López-Moreno was Chief of Research and Capacity Development (2012-2018), the State of the World’s Cities (2008-2012). Prior to this post, he was the Chief of the Global Urban Observatory (2002-2008) and Senior Technical Adviser in the Bureau of Africa and the Arab States (1999-2001). He was also Chief Technical Adviser in Angola for UN-HABITAT (1996-1999). Before joining the United Nations, he was invited professor in the universities of Louvain-la-Neuve (Belgium) and the University of New Mexico (USA). 

His qualifications include a Ph.D. in urban geography from the University of Paris III-Sorbonne in France and a master’s degree in urban sociology in the same University. He also has a BA in Architecture from the University of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Ms. Ahmed-Omer has accumulated a wealth of experience and accomplishments in the performance measurement, policy development, HR planning analysis, and employment equity and diversity sectors. Ms. Ahmed-Omer has been the recipient of notable awards over the years, including the exceptional service within the Federal Public Service, the Canada150 Community Builder Award, the Ottawa Black History Community Leadership Award, the top 100 under 40 Most Influential Person of African descent in support of United Nations decade and most recently, the Globe and Mail’s Inaugural Business Changemakers Award (2021), Most recently, last year she was listed as one of Canada's most Influential Women Leaders by Bay St Bull.

In the professional realm, Ms. Ahmed-Omer is the Chief Executive Officer of the BlackNorth Initiative. In her previous role, Ms. Ahmed- Omer was the Human Resources Specialist within the Public Sector and primarily responsible for the Visible Minority Advisory Steering Committee of the Agency and working in the agency-wide Employment Equity Action Plan and Anti-racism Strategy.

Ms. Ahmed-Omer is a founding member of the Justice for Abdirahman Coalition, which advocated securing justice for the late Abdirahman Abdi and his family. A previous member of the Black Agenda Noir organization, a Circle of United Black Citizens whose goal is to cement Black presence on the national radar.

Janet Bobechko is a Certified Specialist in Environmental Law by the Law Society of Ontario and Partner at WeirFoulds LLP. Janet is a nationally recognized senior practitioner with over 30 years of experience in all aspects of environmental and natural resources law. 

Janet’s environmental law practice is broadly focused to include climate change and sustainability, Environment Social Governance (ESG), brownfield development, environmental dispute resolution and natural resource development. 

She routinely provides sophisticated and strategic advice on environmental compliance, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and portfolio acquisitions and dispositions, leasing, financings, and environmental management systems. She has significant experience in construction and infrastructure matters including linear infrastructure and renewable energy.  Her dispute resolution work includes advice on environmental aspects in complex civil litigation for legacy contamination, migration of contamination, environmental inspections and investigations, defence of regulatory charges and administrative orders relating to federal and provincial environmental offences, and strategic due diligence advice. She advises clients in the natural resource sector involving mining and Indigenous consultation. 

Ramani Nadarajah is counsel with the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA).  She holds an LL.B. (1987) and an LL.M. (2007) from Osgoode Hall Law School and is certified by the Law Society of Ontario as a Specialist in Environmental Law.  

From 2022 to 2023, Ramani was on secondment as Policy Counsel with the Law Commission of Ontario, where she led the Environmental Accountability: Rights, Responsibilities and Access to Justice project. 

 Prior to joining CELA in 1994, Ramani was Crown Counsel with the Ontario Ministry of Environment. Ramani has appeared before the courts and administrative tribunals on cases involving contaminated sites, waste, air pollution, pesticides, water-takings and environmental land-use planning.  She was also co-counsel for over five hundred residents at both phases of the Walkerton Inquiry. 

Ramani has served on federal and provincial government advisory bodies on a range of issues including environmental penalties, brownfields and modernizing environmental approvals.  Ramani is a co-editor of Carswell’s Canadian Environmental Law Reports and has published articles in Canadian and international law journals on environmental law and policy issues, with a focus on regulatory compliance and enforcement. 

Heela is a dynamic leader in the Greater Toronto Area’s city-building industry. As Vice President, Social Impact at The Daniels Corporation, one of Canada’s largest and pre-eminent builder/developers, Heela is responsible for corporate mandates and strategic initiatives that look beyond the bricks and mortar to ensure that the social, cultural and economic infrastructures of communities built by Daniels are as strong as the new buildings. Since 2009, Heela has been working on Phases 1, 2 and 3 of the revitalization of Regent Park in Toronto’s Downtown East.



Heela strongly believes in the potential of the real estate development industry to positively shape how communities and cities come together to foster inclusion and resilience. Her passion for social change and community impact comes from her lived experience as an immigrant to Canada at a young age and growing up in a vibrant social housing community in Toronto’s inner suburbs.

Dr. Zahra Hojati holds a doctoral degree in an interdisciplinary program; Higher Education/Women and Gender Studies at the Ontario Institute of Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto, Canada. Her scholarly pursuits revolve around utilizing postcolonial and integrative anti-racist feminist perspectives, coupled with a transnational feminist paradigm. Her primary focus lies in critically examining the entwined nature of capitalism and patriarchy, which collectively oppress women of Middle Eastern/Muslim descent in both Northern and Southern contexts. Furthermore, she explores the profound impact of Middle Eastern conflicts and war  on the lives of women and their families. Dr. Hojati's research uniquely explores the intersection of gender with race, class, religion, and various other social inequalities, aiming to elucidate the intricate dynamics of "identity, home, and belonging " and the resilience of racialized women. 

In 2013, she authored the book "Between 2 Rocks, Iran-Canada: Iranian Immigrant Women Speak Out," subsequently translated into Farsi in 2018. Dr. Hojati boasts an extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals, accompanied by numerous presentations at national and international conferences conducted in both English and Farsi. Her pedagogical experience includes teaching women and gender studies, as well as Women in Islam, offering a nuanced perspective from both Western and Eastern vantages. She has contributed her expertise to former Ryerson University (now Metropolitan University) and the University of Toronto, both situated in Toronto, Canada. 

Roya Sharifzad is a compassionate and dedicated individual who has made a significant impact in the lives of children and families. With a master's degree in Psychology and over 20 years of experience as a behavior therapist for kids with autism, Roya has been instrumental in helping children overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. In 2017, she established MAGO Charity with the mission of bringing hope and happiness to orphans and their families. 

Under Roya's leadership, MAGO Charity has made a tremendous difference in the lives of many. Through various initiatives and programs, the charity has provided clean water to numerous villages that were previously deprived of this basic necessity. This has not only improved the health and well-being of the communities but has also brought a sense of hope and empowerment to those in need. 

Roya's dedication and commitment to making a positive impact have been recognized and appreciated by many. She continues to work tirelessly to expand the reach of MAGO Charity and support as many children and families as possible. 

Outside of her charity work, Roya enjoys spending time with her family. She believes in the power of education and actively seeks opportunities to empower others through knowledge and support. Driven by her passion for helping others, she remains an inspiration to all those who come in contact with her.” 

Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee is a Clinical Psychologist, and the Director and Founder of Silm Centre for Mental Health. She practices from a Cognitive-Behavioural orientation (e.g., CBT, DBT, and ACT). She works with adolescents and adults who are having difficulties with adjustment and/or with their mental health.

Dr. Taslim graduated with her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Lakehead University, and has a Masters in International Development Studies from Dalhousie University. She currently teaches at Adler Graduate Professional School, and Lakehead University. She is an Adjunct Faculty Member at Lakehead University and at Adler Graduate Professional School.

Dr. Taslim is a keynote speaker and is often featured in the media. She consults, teaches and does research related to mental health, well-being, intimate partner violence, stigma, social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion, culturally-adapted psychotherapies, and cultural humility in clinical practice.

Fiana Andrews, Ed.S., C. Psych., is a licensed Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Fiana’s role includes providing psychological assessments and CBT-focused counselling services across all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults.

Fiana is committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for her clients to explore their experiences. Her non-

judgmental approach ensures that clients feel heard and valued, allowing for a collaborative partnership in their journey toward empowerment and growth. With a deep respect for cultural diversity, she strives to create a culturally-sensitive and inclusive environment where clients can freely express themselves and work towards their goals.

In 2009, Fiana earned her Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology from Andrews University. Since 2008, she has been an integral member of the psychology department at the Peel District School Board. Additionally, Fiana brings valuable experience from her work in private practice.

Fiana is a proud member in good standing with the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice.

Karthiga Mahendran is a Clinical Associate and Registered Psychotherapist who provides psychotherapy and psychological services to adolescents and adults under the supervision of Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee and Jesse Roberts at Silm Centre for Mental Health. She is a graduate of Adler Graduate Professional School, where she completed her Masters in Psychology. She has a Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree and earned her York-Seneca Rehabilitation certificate at York University.

She provides both individual therapy and supports assessments at Silm Centre for Mental Health. Karthiga believes that seeking therapy is a journey that is unique to each individual, whether they are experiencing difficulties with adjustment and/or their mental health. She ensures that her clients feel heard and understood in a way that is non-judgmental and compassionate. Karthiga provides evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, and ACT using a trauma-informed and Adlerian approach. In addition, she utilizes her skills as an ADHD coach providing individual and group therapy. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults. Karthiga is fluent in Tamil and English.

Monica Aguilar is a Clinical Associate and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who provides psychotherapy and psychological services to adolescents and adults under the supervision of Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee at Silm Centre for Mental Health. She is a graduate of York University where she completed an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree. She is a current student at Adler Graduate Professional School pursuing a Master of Psychology degree.

Monica is passionate about creating a safe space that is non-judgmental, accepting, compassionate, and respectful where clients can feel genuinely comfortable discussing whatever is on their mind. She is dedicated to collaboratively working with her clients, and primarily uses a trauma-informed and person-centred perspective in therapy. She also believes in an integrative approach to therapy, and includes CBT, ACT, and mindfulness. For Monica, being able to help in any impactful capacity is the most rewarding gift.

Yalda Omari is a Clinical Associate and Registered Psychotherapist who provides psychotherapy and psychological services to adolescents and adults under the supervision of Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee and Jesse Roberts at Silm Centre for Mental Health. She has her Master’s degree from Adler Graduate Professional School.

She provides therapy, taking an integrative approach to address a wide range of mental health challenges. She uses evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), using a trauma-informed approach. She also supports psycho-diagnostic and psycho-educational assessments. She enjoys working with both adolescents and adults. Yalda is fluent in Dari and also speaks conversational Turkish and Dutch.

Honour is a graduate of the Ethics, Society, and Law program at the University of Toronto and is a Sustainability Scholar. She specializes in environmental ethics, plastic pollution, toxics, and women’s health. Honour has worked in the realm of education and knowledge translation for 10 years and has created site-specific environmental dance performances and short educational films such as the Plastic Project.

She has written articles, drafted submissions for environmental law reform, and has appeared as an expert panelist at the University of Toronto's School of the Environment and more recently as the youngest female NGO leader at Toronto Metropolitan University. Honour is delighted to be working with WHEN and to have a space to advocate for women and other vulnerable populations through multiple channels. 

As a Law Reform Specialist, Kanisha leverages her understanding of legislative and policy development processes to advocate for laws and policies that advance environmental justice, intersectional gender equity, and the human right to a healthy environment. Kanisha engages in law reform efforts including testifying in front of legislative committees, submitting legislative and policy recommendations, and participating in various coalitions and government consultations. Kanisha's work has largely focused on reforming the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) to meaningfully address the health inequities faced by women, Indigenous peoples and other vulnerable populations; her research is informed by the gender-based analysis plus methodology and she has developed expertise in applying an intersectional approach to law and policy reform. She continues to engage in the development of the Implementation Framework for the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA as well as the National Strategy to Address Environmental Racism under Bill C-226. To learn more about Kanisha's experience at WHEN, please visit our website.  

Kanisha has a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Conservation from the University of British Columbia and a law degree from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University, with specialized certificates in environmental law and Aboriginal and Indigenous law. Kanisha has significant experience in the non-profit sector and completed her legal internship with Ecojustice before becoming a licensed lawyer in June 2023." 

Kim is a visionary global executive with over 25 years of experience in the information technology industry, she stands as a relentless and focused global thought leader. Her expertise spans driving strategy, innovation, transformation, and operational excellence across various sectors, including Federal Crown Corporation, Fintech, Healthcare, Retail, etc. managing end-to-end global portfolios in different time zones valued between $500K to $700MM, with a keen eye for the big picture without losing sight of tactical details. 

In Kim’s leadership, she practices and advocates for PEI (Positivity, Excellence, and Impact)., and personalizes her relationships by fostering authentic conversations and building connections, by actively listening with an eye on evolving competitive landscapes. 

Kim is an independent mom of 2 children, the CEO/Founder of SCABA and Management+ Inc., and a member of various Boards globally, she brings expertise in strategic planning, thought leadership, allyship, anti-bullying, mentoring, and coaching. She is also a dedicated Global Mentor and Coach, guiding 15 mentees worldwide, and an International Peace Ambassador. Her efforts in the community and ESG are reflected in her volunteer work and participation on non-profit Boards. Her contributions have been recognized globally, earning her the honour of being a Global Peace Ambassador and an advocate for Women’s Empowerment. Her journey is about leading organizations and creating a legacy of transformative leadership, inclusive excellence, and a place of belonging. 

Mahlikah Outten is the current Director of Programming for Neighbourhood Impact for the Toronto Centre Of Learning & Development in Regent Park, the 2023 recipients of the City Of Toronto’s Constance E. Hamilton Award for Women’s Equality; and holds key roles within their community, such as, an Immigrant Women’s Integration Leadership Program Lead Trainer, Art Educator and Wellness Ambassador at the Art Gallery Of Ontario, and Faculty Member at the Wildseed Centre of Art & Activism. 

Mahlikah is a Nationally recognized award-winning Canadian Spoken Word artist, Published Writer, Tedx Speaker, Content Creator, and Human Design Soul Purpose Coach, who utilizes artivism in multidisciplinary forms such as: performance, digital art, futurist writing, and mindfulness, to cultivate social change, rest, and resistance. 

Mahlikah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Radio Television Arts, from York University and TMU respectively, and is a 2022 Radical Permission Institute Fellow. 

They are also a key collaborator and contributor to several community projects such as the Black Diasporas Tkaronto Storytelling Digital Mapping Project, Oddside Arts " Beyond The Soil', exhibition which explores textiles and patterns as modes of communicating stories and

Nimo, a dedicated resident of Moss Park for 16 years, has long been immersed in community service. Initially involved with Creating Caring Communities, she underwent training for outreach and program coordination. Although she temporarily paused her involvement in 2019, Nimo reignited her passion in 2020 through volunteering efforts in Moss Park and Regent Park. There, she connected with Suraya, a community leader, and began volunteering at the Toronto Centre of Learning & Development under her guidance.

As Nimo assumed the role of co-chair at Mothers of Peace, she spearheaded numerous initiatives, particularly crucial during the pandemic. She attributes her resilience to the support from the Toronto Centre, finding solace in her faith during trying times. Nimo's unwavering commitment exemplifies her steadfast dedication to uplifting her community.

Nora is an accomplished Employment Consultant passionate about helping individuals unlock their potential and find fulfilling careers. Hailing from The Neighbourhood Organization (TNO) and a proud IWIP graduate, Nora brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role.

Throughout her career, Nora has demonstrated a commitment to empowering others, and guiding them through every step of the job search process. Her dedication and personalized approach have resulted in numerous success stories, where clients have achieved their professional goals.

In her current role, Nora leverages her skills to match candidates with opportunities that align with their strengths and aspirations. She thrives on building meaningful connections and fostering relationships with both clients and employers, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Nora is an avid chef, finding inspiration and balance outside the office. Nora continues to make a positive impact in the lives of those she serves.

Rafia Taqi, is a proficient Quran, computer, and sewing teacher.

Alongside her role as a dedicated mother, she began her journey in sewing as a volunteer at the Centre of Learning and Development. Currently, Rafia serves as a Leader of Trainers at DesignWith, utilizing her skills to empower others. Her passion for sewing dates back to her childhood, where she learned from her mother, sister, and cousins. Recognizing the value of sewing as a vital skill, Rafia is committed to sharing her knowledge with her community. Joining the sewing studio at the Centre of Learning and Development aligns perfectly with her mission to promote skill development and empowerment within her community.

With over three decades of experience in Personal & Commercial Banking, Rosemary demonstrates exceptional proficiency in providing leadership, coaching, and business management to a sizable team in the Financial Services Industry. Utilizing effective business strategies and adept people management skills, she successfully achieves key business objectives by nurturing robust client relationships. Furthermore, Rosemary possesses a deep understanding of sales and sales management processes, coupled with the knowledge necessary to ensure the delivery of an efficient client experience while optimizing business opportunities. She is also seen as a Talent Master in her field, identifying individuals that hold the skillsets and ability to connect with others whether they be clients or leading teams. She has supported as mentor and sponsor to many that have led successful careers.

Rosemary holds an Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) with a focus on Finance and Financial Management Services from the University of Western Ontario – Richard Ivey School of Business. Currently serving as the Regional Vice President at BMO Financial Group, she is dedicated to positioning the company as a leader in client relationships. Rosemary is committed to fostering an environment where employees can thrive, people are what truly create a winning culture at BMO and through this ultimately aiding clients in making real financial progress both in business and at home.