Creating a thriving and inclusive Canadian economy, one connection at a time.

Since 2016, Mark Schollenberg has contributed his business knowledge and experience supporting 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and professionals as CGLCC’s Board Chair and Manitoba Regional Member. As a long-time employee of RBC, he has worked to grow and empower businesses across Canada, most recently as a Regional Enablement Coach for Business Markets.

Shawn Salewski is an accomplished entrepreneur and senior manager with over two decades of experience in public relations and communications. He currently serves as the Director General of Protection Incendie C.D., a business he has owned since 2022, leading a team dedicated to fire safety and protection. His inclusive leadership and ability to deliver quick, lasting results define his management style.

Previously, Shawn was the Assistant Vice President of External Communications at BDC, Canada’s bank for entrepreneurs, where he led the team responsible for reputation management, corporate communications, events, and public relations activities. He believes that impactful, purpose-driven projects are essential in building trust and a strong brand.

A passionate advocate for LGBTQ2+ issues, Shawn is currently Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) and Chair of its Governance Committee. He was the Executive Sponsor of BDC’s LGBTQ2+ Employee Resource Group for five years, until 2023. He has also contributed to non-profit organizations such as Startup Canada and GRIS-Montréal. Shawn’s academic background includes undergraduate studies and a Master’s in Communications from the University of Ottawa. Originally from Ontario, he has lived in Montreal since 2012.

Dr. Gavin Armstrong is committed impact entrepreneur. He is currently serving as the Founder and President of Lucky Iron Fish Enterprise®, a social enterprise attempting to alleviate iron deficiency around the world using a simple health innovation. Through this role he was a Fulbright scholar at Auburn University and was awarded the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 in the Social Entrepreneur category in 2016. In 2017 he received the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award and was named ‘Social Entrepreneur of the Year’ by EY Canada. In 2018 he successfully pitched his company Lucky Iron Fish Enterprise on CBC’s Dragons Den where he was able to secure a deal with two dragons. Gavin holds a PhD in Biomedical Science from the University of Guelph.

Partner/Principal | Intl Tax and Tran Svcs(ITTS). Ernst & Young LLP.

As the Co-founder of CGLCC (2003) and Board Chair (2003-2018), Bruce McDonald continues to contribute his experience as a business consultant, LGBTBE owner, as well as his experience from many years in the hospitality, travel, and tourism industries. His support of 2SLGBTQI+ communities stretch beyond CGLCC. He was the Co-Founder of both Travel Gay Canada, an association that promoted Canada as a preferred destination for LGBT+ travellers internationally; and the Canadian Gay & Lesbian Business Education Foundation (CGLBEF), Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ business education foundation.

Florence Chapman joined Sobeys Inc. in March 2019 and currently serves as Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion HR and Business Process supporting implementation of a multi-year Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy. Prior to joining Sobeys Inc., Florence was CEO of Canadian Business SenseAbility, a leading not-for-profit committed to supporting corporations in advancing employment outcomes for people with disabilities through inclusive and accessible culture and process transformation.

Flo spent over 10 years in the financial services industry as Vice President, Institutional Equity Sales developing strategic global institutional client relationships for Midland Walwyn Capital, and Merrill Lynch in Toronto, New York City, and London, England. She holds a BA in Commerce and Economics from Trinity College, University of Toronto, and completed the Women in Business Initiative at the Rotman School of Management, U of T in 2015. In addition to recently joining the Board of the CGLCC, Flo is founding Board member of Access to Success, a Fellowship Program that provides scholarships to MBA students with disabilities at four of Canada’s leading MBA schools, and ATS Labs, Canada’s only accelerator for accessibility technology startups.

Margaret Coons is the Founder & CEO of Nuts For Cheese, Canada’s market leader in artisan, organic, plant-based dairy manufacturing. Vegan from an early age, Margaret developed a passion for plant-based cuisine becoming a vegan chef and experimenting with nuts and seeds to create deliciously creamy dairy-free cheeses. Since launching at a farmer’s market in 2015, Nuts For Cheese™ has enjoyed explosive growth across Canada and the United States with its award-winning artisanal and versatile dairy-free products available at national retailers, including Loblaws, Sobeys, Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and more. Today, Nuts For Cheese™ employs 30+ people, operating from a 25,000 square foot manufacturing facility in London, Ontario. Nuts For Cheese™ continues to scale year-over-year with a mission to create delicious, dairy-free and vegan cheese for cheese lovers everywhere.

In Jessica’s current role, she works with a team of Procurement and Business Professionals, across the globe, leading the Bank’s Supplier Diversity strategy, reporting into the Strategy team in RBC Global Procurement under the Chief Administration Office umbrella. Jessica firmly believes that inclusive procurement practices strengthen local economies, forge new business opportunities and create value for communities.

She is known for her strong relationship building skills and strong record in engaging teams, which sets her up for success in her current role. She is bold and is known to tap into the full RBC network to identify the best opportunities for diverse suppliers.

Jessica is energized by connecting with suppliers and spends her time on finding ways to advance the equality of opportunity for Women, BIPOC, LGBT+, people with disabilities, service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses by promoting an inclusive supply chain and levelling the playing field for disadvantaged suppliers.

In her spare time Jessica carries that love for sports and you can often find her playing baseball, soccer or basketball with various GTA women’s leagues.

Jane Griffith is the Managing Partner and Founder of the Griffith Group Executive Search. A veteran search leader, Jane focuses on the recruitment of senior leaders in the not-for-profit, academic, and broader public sectors. She is a frequent speaker and guest lecturer on hiring practices, with a specific focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Jane holds a Bachelor of Arts in Legal History from the University of Calgary and a Master of Arts in Legal History from the University of Toronto. She is an active volunteer and has supported many organizations including 30% Club Canada, Informed Opinions, Congress 2017 with AFP Toronto, as the Founder of The Council of Women Executives, and has been appointed to the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Chamber of Commerce in 2022. Jane is also the Founder of the Canadian Chapter of the LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors Association.

Joining Export Development Canada in 2021, Rachel is the VP, ESG Strategy, Outreach and Reporting.

Rachel brings over a decade of experience in ESG strategy and reporting in the Canadian financial industry. As the Head of TD’s ESG Reporting and Impact Measurement team, she navigated TD’s strategy through materiality assessments, the adoption of GRI standards, SASB and TCFD reporting. TD’s reporting won national acclaim, winning “Best ESG Reporting” in Canada from IR Magazine for three years in a row.

Originally from the U.K., Rachel completed her undergrad at St. Andrews University in Scotland and returned to school mid-career for a Certificate in Corporate Responsibility from St. Michael’s College in Toronto. In her spare time, Rachel volunteers with Ski Patrol Canada.

Breanna Needham is a commercial litigation lawyer with a focus on matters where misconduct is an element. She founded Luceo Legal after practicing law at two of the largest law firms in Canada, one of the leading litigation boutiques in Toronto, and the Toronto office of an international law firm.

Breanna brings her love of research, reading, and writing to the work she does by specializing in written advocacy and providing in-depth review and detailed analysis for complex and evidence-heavy matters. She has extensive experience working on matters involving investigations and injunctions, as well as strategic analysis, legal research, written submissions, and opinions in confidential, high-profile, and high-stakes matters.

Breanna has consistently been recognized for her work in the commercial litigation space. She represents companies and individuals in a wide variety of proceedings, investigations, and disputes, including in matters involving fraud, misappropriation, conversion, restrictive covenants, breach of confidence, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, and other complex disputes involving shareholders, employees, directors, officers, and nuanced business relationships.

Part of Breanna’s approach to practice includes preventing problems before they happen, including through offering risk management and fraud prevention services to clients so that issues can be addressed before they become emergencies.

Debra Quade brings extensive knowledge of Supplier Diversity to CGLCC’s board. Based in Battle Creek, Michigan, she currently manages the Supplier Diversity program at Kellanova.

As Co-Founder and CEO of CGLCC, Darrell Schuurman has been committed to CGLCC’s mission since 2003. He is a Former Managing Partner at DNA Marketing Group and has a background in business, sales and marketing. He is the Co-Founder of Travel Gay Canada.

A social change activist at heart, Sarah approaches their work with a steadfast commitment to co-creating equitable, sustainable, and joyous communities.

As an executive leader, they have spent nearly two decades working with the public service sector and large corporations to create policy, lead innovation and build progressive, future-ready organizations. They’re known for championing sustainable and scalable practices through the lens of inclusion, justice, and environmental responsibility.

Sarah’s advocacy for building bridges between people, place, and understanding means they can most often be found in community—supporting non-profits, hosting gatherings and fundraisers, and leading inclusive outdoor adventures.

Dre Choi is an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practitioner, consultant, researcher, and educator with over 15 years of leadership experience developing, advising, and executing EDI initiatives in organizations and institutions. Their professional experience includes applying robust intersectional EDI frameworks when assessing workplace climates, strengthening policies and practices, and evaluating EDI programs in corporate settings, universities, and the public sector. They are particularly fond of creating rigorous and innovative equity-informed research methodologies and metrics for analyzing data. Strategy-focused, Dre places a heavy emphasis on ethical practice, sustainability, impact, and lasting positive change.

They hold a PhD on the efficacy of equity practices and antiracist initiatives in higher education and the barriers to inclusion for members of equity-deserving groups.

Didi A. Chuk holds a Master’s in International Business Management and Finance from Edinburgh Business School. Recognized as a distinguished scholar, he was honored as the Best Graduating Student for his outstanding academic achievements. Throughout his career, Didi has collaborated with numerous government and public organizations, where his innovative strategies and customer-centric approach earned him the Top Performer accolade. His tenure at Scotiabank’s business banking division further showcased his expertise and commitment to excellence. Beyond his corporate roles, Didi has sat on the board of a charity endowment fund, ardently pushing for female economic empowerment. He’s also a staunch advocate for the rights of black and neurodivergent individuals, reflecting his deep-rooted passion for inclusivity and justice. Outside of work, Didi’s interests are diverse, from exploring culinary arts as a chef to the discipline of powerlifting. As he joins CGLCC, Didi brings a rich tapestry of experiences, achievements, and a genuine desire to foster an inclusive business landscape.

With a career in the non-profit sector that spans over 15 years, Tyler has built a strong background in program management and grant-making, as well as donor education. Tyler holds an MSc in International Development and Biomedical Science from the University of Guelph and is committed to driving positive global change through his career. Using his funder’s experience, he will help to build CGLCC’s granting programs, through the new 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program.

Outside of work, you can find Tyler on the soccer pitch or at the pool playing water polo with the Toronto Triggerfish. He also enjoys volunteering for local charities, fiddling around on his guitar, or curling up with a nice book and mug of coffee or tea.

With over 5 years in the non-profit sector, Paige brings experience in fundraising and partnership management and a passion for advancing causes that focus on equity and sustainability. She has a BA from Queens and professional experience in communications, tech, and client relationship management.

With over ten years of experience in human resources, project management, organizational leadership, training and development, change management, and operational compliance, Austen is passionate about building inclusive, collaborative workplaces. A passionate equity advocate, Austen thrives in an environment that values problem-solving and innovation, continuous improvement, and the exploration of new ideas.

Splitting her time between Toronto and Northern Ontario whenever possible, Austen enjoys spending time outdoors, going on family adventures, vegetarian cooking, and exploring new arts & crafts like knitting and 3D printing.

Adnan joins the CGLCC with over 12 years of proven expertise as a passionate and results-driven Chartered Professional Accountant. His career spans multiple continents, bringing a valuable blend of global perspective and deep knowledge of Canadian financial practices. Adnan holds an MBA from a leading global institution and is recognized as one of the Top 35 CAs in South Africa, known for his empathic leadership, strategic thinking, and innovative approach to financial challenges. His vision is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, whether through developing robust financial strategies, mentoring future finance leaders, or implementing technology to drive operational efficiencies. Adnan is thrilled to join the CGLCC team and looks forward to contributing to our shared mission of diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Based in Vancouver, Em brings expertise in organizational operations, client success, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Most recently, they worked on the People Team in the telecommunications sector, focusing on internal communications, workplace culture, and managing projects to enhance employee experiences.

With a BA in Political Science and experience in customer success and project management, they are a ProSci Certified Change Practitioner passionate about fostering inclusive workplaces, contributing to operational efficiency, and driving meaningful change.

A longtime supporter of CGLCC events, Em is proud to help advance its mission of empowering the 2SLGBTQI+ business community.

With over 15 years of entrepreneurial experience, Alina leads the Supplier Diversity Program at CGLCC as the Business Development Manager for Quebec and Nunavut. Trained as an economist, she is skilled in identifying strategic market opportunities and driving initiatives that bolster both corporate growth and community impact. Her expertise shines in nurturing product market fits, boosting B2B and B2C sales, and overall market expansion initiatives, with a notable track record launching diverse brands in CPG and Durable Goods markets and securing major distribution agreements across Canada and the U.S.

Passionate about creating inclusive and intersectional environments, Alina actively works to connect the immigrant experience with LGBTQ+ identities, helping newcomers overcome initial challenges in Canada, through her volunteer work. Outside of her professional endeavours, she is a dedicated mother of two sons and an enthusiast of fitness and nutrition, balancing her life through weightlifting, cycling, swimming, and continuous curious exploration in food product development.

Oscar is a Project Manager with experience in the non-profit and education sectors. Originally from Mexico, he moved to Canada in 2018 to settle permanently after completing his Masters degree in Marketing Management. Oscar is a trilingual professional with an international background in diversity and inclusion. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling and embracing different cultures, cuisine, and traditions.

Autumn has over a decade of experience managing technology systems for local, national and international nonprofit organizations. He lives in Ottawa with his partner and four spoiled cats.

Idara (ee-dah-rah) is a people developer and project manager who resides in Edmonton. With 6+ years experience working with nonprofit organizations, she has gathered extensive understanding of the non profit sector in Alberta. Idara has also worked in post secondary institutions, with a goal to facilitate acclimatization of international students in Canada and to promote equality and diversity initiatives within tertiary institutions. Over the past few years Idara has honed her passion for community advocacy through running several community initiatives and offering educational sessions to organizations who wish to foster an inclusive workplace.

Idara’s interests include planning outfits and spaces, and connecting with friends and community. She is a huge fan of paint nights, clothing swaps and trips to the mountains.

Originally from Ottawa, Melika has a Ba. in Social sciences with Honors in International Studies and Modern Languages from Ottawa University. While in school she worked for Crown Corporations attached to the tourism industry but later found her calling in the non for profit sector. First by empowering francophone youth with leadership skills, and later supporting 2SLGBTQI+QIA+ Newcomers and asylum seekers with their integration process and to help them face various social, institutional and systemic barriers while in the Greater Toronto Area. Fitness and sweets are her favourite ways to relieve stress. So this, and her love for different cultures lead her to get certified as a Zumba Fitness instructor.

She is now based in the maritimes where she is studying Africentric Social Work at Dalhousie University in hopes of continuing her work in systemic change. Melika feels that her work with multiple vulnerable communities will enrich her work as grant manager with the CGLCC.

Kailey Gilchrist brings a dynamic perspective to our team, with over 10 years of experience in business development and as a Diverse Supplier with her company, NONA Vegan. Leading a successful CPG food business has taught her versatility and resilience in entrepreneurship. Actively engaged with CGLCC for the past 5 years, she has attended Global Trade Missions, won pitch competitions, obtained Rainbow Registered status, and participated in the Out for Business Youth Program.

Now in the role of Manager of Corporate Business Development, Kailey holds a genuine commitment to fostering partnerships with organizations and supporting suppliers in their journeys. Having completed Tuck Executive Education programs at Dartmouth for Starting and Growing a Successful Diverse Business, she brings both practical experience and education to her role. Additionally, holding a degree in Theatre Studies from the University of Guelph, Kailey’s creative background may just be her ‘secret sauce’ in the world of business.

Pru is a Queer South Asian Business professional and an artist based in Toronto. She holds a MA in Painting and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, with a focus on intersectionality. Her work is inspired by the relationship between her identity, community and equity. Her vision as a creative professional is to work toward bringing together dispersed communities through meaningful engagement and persuasive dialogue.

Pru manages some of the core programs at CGLCC, including Supplier Diversity and OUT for Business. Previous to CGLCC, she worked at Pride at Work Canada, as the Business Development Coordinator and held positions at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and the Toronto International Film Festival.

Hanna Haddad holds an MBA and has built a distinguished career in business development, social impact, and management. Known for his strategic problem-solving abilities, Hanna specializes in crafting innovative solutions that drive efficiency and success in complex environments.

Throughout his career, he has worked closely with organizations to enhance operations, foster inclusive business practices, and implement effective management strategies. His expertise spans project estimation, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, making him a valuable asset in leadership and decision-making roles.

Beyond his professional achievements, Hanna is deeply committed to human rights action worldwide. His work focuses on creating equitable opportunities, advocating for marginalized communities, and driving systemic change through sustainable initiatives. With a strong passion for social impact and a talent for finding practical, results-driven solutions, Hanna continues to bridge gaps between business excellence and human rights advocacy.

Let’s connect!

Eloise brings experience in events management, fundraising and entrepreneurship to her role at the CGLCC. She has a BA from McGill and has worked in the public and non-profit sectors.

With a background in Political Sciences and Communications, Abdi has worked the last several years in community-based research centres. His background in conducting and coordinating public health research projects has focused on intersectional and underserved groups in the 2SLGBTQI+ community, which is where his passion lies.

Abdi is responsible for coordinating the delivery of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub. He is eager to apply his research experience and passion to the Knowledge Hub and strives to be inclusive of intersectional and underserved communities on this project.

Seema is a connector and storyteller, passionate about creating impactful and moving content for tech, finance, not for profit and retail industries. Having her education and vast experience in Marketing and Communication, Seema is the Manager of Corporate Engagement for CGLCC, cultivating and sustaining robust and rich relationships with corporate partners and help them give back to the communities they serve.

Julie-Léonora, a communication and marketing professional with a background in Political Sciences, brings extensive experience spanning diverse industries, including the nonprofit sector. She firmly believes in the power of storytelling and effective content creation to emphasize and drive positive change.

As a former content strategist, editorial project manager, and communication and marketing lead, Julie-Léonora is also dedicated to advocating for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. She is actively working towards fostering greater inclusion and awareness. In pursuit of this mission, Julie-Léonora is currently undergoing training on feminist issues and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Sana Khaliq (she/her) is a researcher, daughter, sibling, lifelong student, and advocate. A Pakistani settler on the traditional territories of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples, she has a background spanning multiple industries and disciplines with her work ultimately being rooted in building bridges and creating equitable systems. With almost a decade of knowledge and experience within the social justice space she envisions a future where everyone – including non-human kin – can thrive.

Adam is a Queer Canadian originally from Lebanon, who has called Vancouver home since 2016. With over five years of experience in Project Management, he holds certification as a Project Management Professional and a Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering. Adam’s journey took a significant turn driven by his passion for human rights and LGBTQI rights, prompting a career shift to focus on working with the 2SLGBTQI community. His interests span from travelling to cooking, and thrive on To-do lists.

Adam serves as the Special Projects Manager at CGLCC, channeling his skills and dedication into meaningful initiatives for the community.

Eli (ee-lie) is a trans, nonbinary, disabled activist, parent, and mindfulness practitioner committed to supporting and advocating for opportunity, empowerment, and liberation for all beings. They are a former U.S. lawyer with experience in business immigration, human rights, and youth work and are passionate about creating and fostering community and connection.

Eli holds a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and a B.A. from the University of Texas at Dallas. They live in Tiohtiá:ke (commonly known as Montréal) in an apartment full of kids, pets, books, endless dirty dishes, and love.

Reggie was raised on the outskirts of Paris within a French Brazilian family. Early exposure to a variety of cultures ignited her curiosity about the world and instilled in her a passion for celebrating diversity. Her journey has been marked by a profound appreciation for cultural exchange, having also lived in the UK before settling in Canada.

A seasoned media professional with over 10 years of experience in content production and visual storytelling, Reggie is dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices, aiming to highlight the importance of representation and cultivate inclusive spaces.

In her free time, Reggie finds solace in the simple joys of life, whether she’s hanging out with her beloved dog Milo, indulging her creativity, going on walks, or travelling.

Raised in rural Manitoba and based in Winnipeg, Chris is the CGLCC’s Business Development Manager for the Central Region (MB & ON). With over 15 years of experience in multiple businesses – from manufacturing to Northern retail to food delivery technology – Chris has experienced and contributed to change and growth in various industries.

Chris is focused on building relationships and creating value for organizations and communities. His spare time is devoted to his family, including two dogs who do whatever they want.

Chris has over 15 years experience working both in Canada and abroad in the areas of international and community development, refugee protection, and education. From working with non-profit organizations, to sitting on the board of local 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, to teaching kindergarten up to university level students – Chris is motivated by a desire for social justice.

Most recently, as part of a PhD program in Education, Chris was researching the language learning experiences of 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers in Canadian ESL classrooms. He brings this same passion for understanding issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion to his work with the Supplier Diversity Program.

Outside of work, you will find Chris on the tennis court or doing laps as part of his fervent involvement in 2SLGBTQI+ sports!

Named an ‘Inclusion warrior’ by the Saskatoon Star Phoenix while pursuing a double degree in Sustainability and International Development, Connor is a leader in breaking down gender binaries through their passion for 2S2SLGBTQI+QA+ community engagement.

Connor is excited to translate his experience into concrete policies, education, and support for workplaces that are ready to create stronger, safer spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ customers and employees.

Over the last several years, Leila-Indira has merged her training in storytelling at one of the top journalism schools in Canada with direct experience working in the communications, marketing and branding space for several Arts and civic focused business development organizations. Her specialization is in translating and coordinating brand narratives into compelling digital stories across social and newsletter channels.

Leila’s journey into this niche is inspired by her past role as a summer intern with CGLCC, which further kindled her passion for storytelling, social advocacy, and inclusivity. She firmly believes that acknowledging and understanding the intersectionality of human experience is of utmost importance when using the power of narrative to advocate for social change, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Vanessa, originally from a Nigerian-Kenyan background, made Montreal her home just six months ago. Prior to settling in Montreal, she resided in Kenya and the Netherlands. Her professional background is rooted in NGOs dedicated to enhancing the lived experiences of marginalized groups. Her expertise lies in communications, stakeholder engagement, and event planning.

Vanessa’s motivation for joining CGLCC stems from her commitment to amplifying the voices and improving the experiences of historically marginalized communities. With a foundation in Political Science and European Studies, her academic pursuits often centered on researching the experiences of Black/Afro minority groups. She identifies as a Black/African woman with an unseen disability.

In her leisure time, Vanessa finds joy in traveling, spending time with her favorite kitty Mango, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Originally from France and now Vancouver-based, Léa holds a Master’s in Gender studies and Administration. She is joining the CGLCC with over five years of experience in administration, bilingual customer service, and nonprofit organization. She is constantly advocating for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as well as for neurodiversity awareness; she identifies as an intersectional feminist and truly believes in equal rights and opportunities for all

Highly trained in Nonviolent communication and a big empath, Léa’s main focus is to ensure all partners and members feel seen and valued.

In her spare time, Léa enjoys anything that brings joy to her soul, from paddle boarding, road trips or even interior design and going to Drag performances.

Originally from Montreal, Tash is a Concordia Alum where they completed their degree in Leisure & Education. With experiences in non-profit, and public organizations, they dedicate themself to maximizing group and individuals’ experiences by fostering inclusive safe spaces. In 2016, Tash’s home base became Hull, Quebec, steps away Gatineau Park where they now reside with their partner, our 3 cats, and 1 high energy pup. Tash enjoys trail hikes, camping, leisure sports, and a cool breeze.

Based in Toronto, Peter is a strategist and systems thinker committed to building efficient, inclusive, and values-driven environments where people and processes thrive.

With over twenty years of experience in financial operations, customer advocacy, and change management, Peter has led teams across corporate landscapes to deliver measurable impact. He also brings strong experience in the travel sector, having served as a Travel Director and Project Lead for incentive programs. Known for simplifying complexity, Peter drives change, streamlines operations, and enhances customer experiences.

His passion for connection and lifelong learning shines through volunteer work with animal rescue groups and travels to 65+ countries. Whether supporting clients with safe space accreditation or helping teams grow with clarity and compassion, Peter offers a rare blend of empathy, insight, and operational expertise.

Trish is a proud member of the 2S2SLGBTQI+ Community and proud to be part of the 2SLGBTQI+ team. As Office Administrator, she is the voice that answers the phone and is supporting key directors of the organization. She has worked in private, government, non-profit and media organizations.

As an avid traveller, she has explored over fifty countries and welcomes travel stories and tips. She loves a very good cup of tea, a walk in her favourite trail and time near water. You will find her and her son between Vancouver, BC and Ottawa, ON.

Originally from Aotearoa New Zealand, Janelle (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Pākehā) brings her experience in grants funding and relationship management to support the delivery of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program. Janelle is responsible for the Ecosystem Fund within the Ontario, Manitoba and Nunavut areas.

Janelle is passionate about the arts, communities, and cultural wellbeing. In her spare time you’ll find her attending galleries and performances, knitting, reading, or searching Toronto for the perfect flat white.”

Based in Moncton, NB, Nic is a business development manager with a creative mind, dedicated to driving supplier diversity in the four Atlantic provinces in their regional role.

As a multidisciplinary artist and neurodiverse entrepreneur, Nic is passionate about equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything they do. Their background in sociology, anthropology, community work, and business management has heightened their awareness of disparities and inspired a hopeful drive for progress.

Nic is adventurous and accomplished, with a robust CV and international network. Amongst their many talents, they are most often called upon for their skills in event management, social media marketing, negotiating and hospitality. Nic’s ample international and domestic travels and contracts have enriched their understanding of diverse cultures and business practices. Feel free to ask Nic about your startup, growth, export, and supplier diversity plans!

Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, with skills in Romanian, Italian, German, and Portuguese, Nic loves practicing languages to connect with others.
When off-duty, Nic enjoys nurturing her little ones, attending community events, taking pictures, and making art.

Srinidhi is passionate about tech, code, art, and inclusivity. As an Indian-Canadian AFAB/nonbinary immigrant, they are acutely aware of the importance of inclusivity in tech. They have worked with Google as an IgniteCS mentor to bring their passion for code to underprivileged youth. As a Lead Python Instructor for Engineering students at McMaster University, they strived to reduce the dropout rates of minorities. They won the coveted Accelerate Scholarship through Best Buy Canada, offered to two individuals across Canada who offer promising and diverse talent in Software Engineering, and subsequently worked as a Full Stack Software Developer at BestBuy.ca. Now, at CGLCC as the IT Coordinator, they are excited to use their passion for tech and contribute to CGLCC’s commitment to queer individuals and businesses.

They hold an Honours B.Sc. degree from McMaster University and are also a mixed media artist, having exhibited at the Canadian House of Commons. Creativity and problem-solving are at the core of their work, and they love to work with a variety of tech-stacks and media. In their spare time, you can find them painting, hanging out with their cat, playing video games, or at the gym.

Feel free to connect!

Sydney is a graduate from the University of Western Ontario’s Richard Ivey School of Business, and earned her CPA, CA designation while working with Deloitte in Toronto. Sydney has spent 10+ years supporting charities and non-profits both in Canada and abroad. It was Sydney’s humanitarian work in South India and Honduras that sparked her personal mission of utilizing her professional skills to improve the lives of as many people as possible throughout her career.

(External Contractor, from CHARITYacCOUNTS!)

Merve, pronunciation Mervé (mervei-lleux; Mervay) was born into a Turkish household, raised in Germany and chose Montreal as her new home in 2019. With a vibrant background, she has actively contributed to the non-profit community. In Germany, she co-founded an organization providing space for 2SLGBTQI+ immigrants and served as a board member and support services volunteer for a local non-profit in Montreal serving 2SLGBTQI+ immigrants and refugees. Now she is active as a volunteer and provides legal aid for queer Turkish refugees coming to Canada.

Her journey has taken her to various parts of the world, including Sao Paulo, Lisbon and Vancouver, reflecting her love for travel and connecting with different cultures.

In her free time, Merve enjoys going for runs, cooking Turkish meals and relishes board game nights at home with her partner and her cat. Her passion for intersectional identities and her zest for life shine through in her various roles and experiences.

Sabrina is a storyteller who believes in the power of bridging mission with community. Her research interests include decolonization, political economy, and the effects of environmental degradation. She completed her Hon. B.A. and Masters in History and Political Science, from the University of Toronto. Previously, she worked as the Communications & Creative Manager for a Queer & BIPOC-focused land stewardship collective based in California. Additionally, she was the recipient of a Canada Council for the Arts grant to translate her Masters thesis on Haiti’s development into a documentary.

Ruth Wallace is a driven and compassionate individual who is committed to advocating for social justice. With extensive experience in both public and private sector accounting, Ruth is always eager to grow and develop professionally. She is pursuing her CPA certification while completing a degree in project management. Ruth is known for her creative problem-solving skills and is committed to using her knowledge and expertise to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Originally from Gotha, Germany, Stanley is passionate about all things international and gained work and study experience in Canada, Germany, and the United States. Having a strong background in grant and project management, Stanley is responsible for the delivery of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program in Saskatchewan, Alberta, B.C., the Yukon and the Northwest Territories.

In his spare time you can find Stanley either painting and sketching, ballroom and swing dancing, or being active outside as he’s into many different sports throughout the year.

Victoria has built a dynamic career in Project Management, specialising in operational excellence, process improvement, and strategic planning.

Her experience spans the tourism and service industries, event production, media and entertainment, and the nonprofit sector,  where she has managed complex projects, forged high-level partnerships, and championed diversity and inclusion initiatives. Known for her adaptability, creativity, and people-focused approach, Victoria thrives in dynamic environments, ensuring every project she leads is executed with precision and impact.

Based in Scarborough, Ontario, Victoria enjoys music and theatre, creating and sharing food and drinks with loved ones, practicing yoga and running, and embarking on new adventures with her partner and their beloved pup, Jones.