SpeakUP! International Inc.

Desiree King's story is not just about real estate; it's a story of passion and dedication to helping seniors live comfortably in their golden years. As our esteemed guest, Desiree opens up about the nuances of assisting older adults in downsizing and making informed property decisions that resonate with their desire to age in place. Her approach is a heartwarming blend of professional e...

When a high school talent show sparked a flame that would ignite Dwayne Morgan's future, he couldn't have predicted the blaze of inspiration he would become for so many. Today, we're honored to host this two-time Canadian National Poetry Slam champion and Order of Ontario recipient as he shares his journey from discovery to mastery in the world of spoken word. Elevate your spirit as...

Dance isn't just an art—it's a healer, a teacher, and a bridge across generations. Debbie Nichols-Skerritt of Markham, Ontario, joins us to weave her personal tapestry of life as a registered massage therapist and professional dancer. Her company, "For your Temple," serves as a sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of dance and the restorative touch of massage therapy coalesce. De...

Embark on a journey through the eyes of Eugene Williams Jr. , whose transition from the glitz of childhood stardom to the gratifying world of education and authorship illustrates the profound impact of life choices and familial influence. His story unfolds, revealing how a blend of early fame and the wisdom of his nurturing parents carved his future as a celebrated educator and writer. Williams&ap...

Join the conversation with the formidable Ms. Rosemary Sadlier , a vanguard for diversity, equity, and inclusion, as we celebrate the indomitable spirit that brought Black History Month to national prominence in Canada. Weaving a tapestry of perseverance and hope, Rosemary recounts her pivotal role in lobbying for its federal recognition, building upon legacies left by Dr. Carter G. Woodson and th...

From a vibrant Jamaican upbringing to the esteemed courts of Birmingham, Dawn Brathwaite's legal odyssey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As you tune in, you'll be captivated by her account of resilience and soaring triumphs in healthcare law. Her journey is a testament to the power of ambition, as she evolved from an aspiring attorney to a luminary in her field, all while maintaining...

Celebrate International Women's Day with us as we sit down with the insightful Natasha Henry-Dixon , assistant professor of African Canadian history at York University and a Vanier Scholar. Natasha captivates us with her journey, starting with the stories of Emancipation Day and leading up to her 25-year teaching career. Her stories aren't just anecdotes; they're transformative expe...

Embark on a transformative exploration with jeewan chanicka , whose leadership as the Director of Education at the Waterloo Region District School Board is marked by a trailblazing commitment to inclusivity and cultural responsiveness. Within the walls of our learning institutions, jeewan's voice is a clarion call for systemic change, challenging us to lean into the discomfort of dismantling...

Donna McCurvin's journey is nothing short of enthralling. She's lived multiple lives in one—chemist, environmental protector, and cultural curator—and in this episode, she invites us into her world of passion-fueled transformation. We kick off with stories from the heart of Toronto's music scene, where Donna's IRIE Music Festival and Toronto Urban Music Festival offering a stag...

When Nataniel Turner recounts the story of his son visualizing soccer goals to triumph on the field, it's more than heartwarming—it's a blueprint for success. Our latest episode isn't just about soccer, though. It's a deep dive into the realm of intentional parenting, where Nataniel's personal journey intertwines with potent strategies for nurturing a child's aspirati...

From the small coastal nation of Guyana to the highest echelons of the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Frank Douglas's life is a chronicle of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to equality. In our latest episode, we're honored to host this trailblazing figure as he recounts the challenges of his early life and the formative moments that led to his academic and professional...

Have you ever uncovered a hidden gem within your life's challenges? Fadhwa Yusuf joins us to illuminate how every twist and setback can be a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Her journey from self-questioning to becoming a transformational life coach is a testament to the power of personal metamorphosis. Fadhwa recounts the heartwarming story of her pivotal role in the Syrian Resettle...

Embark on a powerful journey with Priscilla Manful, the trailblazing CEO of the Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto, as she narrates her remarkable voyage from Ghana to influential leader, setting a new standard for child welfare. This episode unveils Priscilla's transformative approach to leadership, one which harmonizes accountability, community engagement, and psychological saf...

Have you ever considered the immeasurable power a community holds when it unites for the cause of education? Charis Newton-Thompson , with her deeply rooted ties to the historic village of Buxton, Guyana, joins us to illuminate just how transformative that power can be. Witness her reflection on a journey marked by educational triumphs and the spirit of empowerment, including the awe-inspiring sto...

As the sun sets on another day, we're reminded that darkness often gives way to the most brilliant of dawns. This is the essence of resilience—a theme poignantly explored in our heart-to-heart with Krystal Clark, a Texas-based life coach who faced the shadow of childhood sexual abuse and emerged into the light of healing and empowerment. Her powerful narrative, accentuated by the cathartic ac...

From the rigorous training grounds of West Point to the skies as a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, and into the legal arena as an attorney, Ben Grimes has epitomized leadership in every facet of his career. Today, he joins us to weave the narrative of his pivot from the courtroom to coaching, imparting the leadership tenets of trust, transparency, and empathy. His tale is as heartfelt as it is instru...

When grief becomes a catalyst for healing, it can transform lives. This is the essence of what our guest, psychotherapist Candace Oglesby, brings to our latest heartfelt episode of SpeakUP! International. Candace opens up about her own profound journey through personal loss to become a healer, offering an intimate look at how a challenging childhood—with a father combating muscular dystrophy and a...

When the echoes of historical injustices still resonate through the corridors of our present, it's leaders like Mr. Michael Bowe who light the path to understanding and change. We were honored to have such a distinguished advocate for equity and inclusion on SpeakUP! International, sharing the deep-seated challenges that marginalized communities face. Michael's insights on the legacy of...

Have you ever searched for yourself within the pages of a story, only to feel invisible? Nadia Hohn, a beacon of diverse storytelling in children's literature, joins us to recount her ascent from a young girl dreaming of Jamaica to an acclaimed author and educator. Her vibrant tales, including "Malaika's Costume", are not just stories; they're windows into a world where ev...

Embark on a compelling journey with Mr.  Antwaun Thompson , as he brings an infectious zeal for mentoring tomorrow's leaders straight from North Carolina (USA) to our podcast. Discover Antwaun 's blueprint for a rounded education that extends beyond the classroom, with essential skills like financial literacy, communication, and conflict resolution at its heart. Antwaun doesn't hold...

Embark on an auditory journey through the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of Mr. Robert Small , a beacon of inspiration within the Black Canadian community. As a former law school aspirant turned pivotal artist, Small's narrative is a compelling tapestry that weaves together the threads of adversity, artistry, and the relentless pursuit of one's true calling. In the face of great chal...

Embarking on a journey filled with resilience and empowerment, we welcomed an incredible guest to SpeakUP! International, a Deaf Psychologist and Mental Health Advocate who's become a beacon of hope. Her story of transforming the challenges of hearing loss into triumphant academic achievements in psychology serves as a testament to her indomitable spirit. We cover the vital aspects of breakin...

When Kevin Lawler hung up his corporate hat to weave a tapestry of change for marginalized communities, he didn't just step into philanthropy; he leaped with both feet. On SpeakUP! International Inc, we're honored to host this champion for change, who shares his exhilarating transition and the profound work he's undertaken with the Pinball Clemons Foundation. From the art of problem...

Embark on an enlightening journey with the dynamic Evelyn Myrie , a heralded champion of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), as we unravel the complexities of fostering inclusive environments in various sectors. Discover the pivotal differences between equity and equality through Evelyn's expert lens, illuminating the essence of tailored support for individual advancement within organizat...

Every child is a universe of potential, yet the world of education can sometimes orbit too strictly around a one-size-fits-all sun. Nicole Cummings-Morgan, our esteemed guest and a veritable supernova in the field of early childhood education, illuminates the myriad ways children learn and the importance of celebrating these differences. Her journey from crafting a poem to authoring a book that ch...