T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Elizabeth Caley

By

Samantha Peksa

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5:18 pm

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The Tech Pro

Using technology for good and mentoring women in STEM areas

BY ERIN ELOFSON,
COUNTRY MANAGER, PINTEREST CANADA

Technology for good, for all. That’s the heart of Elizabeth Caley, quintessential science and technology geek. She builds big technology products, used by millions of people, often infused with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. But her work has always been grounded in helping people solve real problems, particularly scientists.

She co-leads Meta, part of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, a free, real-time discovery tool that helps scientists read and analyze millions of technical papers. It has the potential of reshaping the pace of scientific discovery across the world. Elizabeth is just like Meta — always voraciously consuming information, the latest scientific papers, technical blogs, books and more.

That appetite is only matched by her quiet ambition to mentor women in STEM areas. I was fairly new to tech when I first met Elizabeth at Microsoft. We were different in many ways, but she always celebrated our differences while harnessing and deepening our common ground. That’s her superpower — making everyone feel uniquely recognized, heard and understood and brilliantly building consensus.

That time with Elizabeth ignited my passion for technology and was at the core in solidifying my passion for the technology industry. She continues to use almost every free moment to inspire and lead women like me, as well as budding entrepreneurs. Elizabeth, in addition to her remarkable intellectual depth and talent, is best known for her steadfast commitment to helping others reach their full potential.

Next on the list: Jessica Mulroney

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Deryn Rizzi

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:17 pm

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The Fire Chief

The first woman to be appointed fire chief in Ontario

BY MAURIZIO BEVILACQUA,
MAYOR OF VAUGHAN

Chief Deryn Rizzi’s steady, focused and unprecedented climb through the ranks of Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) is inspiring and a reminder of the art of the possible. There is no shortage of glass ceilings that she has smashed through — and she’s only just begun.

An exceptionally well-qualified, prepared and disciplined individual, Chief Rizzi is recognized provincially, nationally and internationally for her advocacy and leadership in raising awareness of diversity, and inclusion values and practices, in emergency services. She has an incredible responsibility to encourage, mentor and motivate the next generation of firefighters who have answered the call. As Chief Rizzi can attest, a career as a firefighter is truly a vocation of the highest service. It teaches and instills the importance of hard work, teamwork and commitment.

She serves as fire chief in one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. With growth, comes both opportunities and challenges requiring experienced, trusted and tested leadership. She is a champion of modernization and innovation to cultivate and sustain an efficient and effective delivery of service.

She utilizes critical thinking skills, coupled with a capacity to build and maintain interpersonal relationships.

As we continue to plan Vaughan’s promising future, I know that we have a true city-building partner in Chief Rizzi. Her message is clear and powerful — that we need to be active participants in shaping our future because we all have the power in each of us to make a difference.

Next on the list: Elizabeth Caley

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Olivia Nuamah

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:16 pm

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The Activist

Building bridges for the LGBTQ2SIA community

BY REV. CHERI DINOVO,
MINISTER

As a politician I passed more LGBTQ Bills than anyone in Canadian history, performed the first legalized same-sex marriage in North America and was the only woman to sign the We Demand statement (the first gay rights lobby effort in Canada), so I’ve seen my share of activism and activists. Few people stood out as exemplary spokespeople for those of us in the LGBTQ2SIA community at that time. Olivia is one of them. She has been accessible, courageous and effective.

She has made difficult political calls with integrity. I’ve always admired her tenacity and her principles. It’s beyond difficult to manage our various interests with honesty, diplomacy and bravery.

When it came to the concern the LGBTQ2SIA community and the Black Lives Matter movement had with uniformed police involvement in the Pride Parade, Olivia’s role proved exemplary. She listened to the community. Then she involved herself in attempting to resolve some of the issues with the Toronto Police Service. Both required tact. Not everyone was or can be satisfied in such a process, but the fact that she was able to traverse some very real grievances and work toward healing shows her peacemaking skills in practice. We need more peacemakers, peacemakers that listen and maintain their principles but steer conflict toward resolution. Olivia is one. Olivia is, in all things, someone you can call. Olivia is also a role model. Perhaps most importantly, when I watch her, I think of all those young girls who will lead better lives both because of her and by following in her footsteps.

Next on the list: Deryn Rizzi

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Amanda Parris

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:15 pm

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COVERS-_0007_AmandaParrisgoogle2-LAYERED — Amanda Parris will be participating in 21 BLACK FUTURES

The TV Host

An artist who is bringing a fresh perspective to arts coverage

BY CATHERINE HERNANDEZ,
AUTHOR

Amanda has always been the kind of person who was bound for success, it was just a matter of all of the puzzle pieces falling into place.

I still remember her being cast in the workshopping of my play.

She was in the midst of a major transition in her life career-wise, and with some major decisions about what to pursue and what to let go of, she was understandably worried for the future.

It was clear to me, even in that state of uncertainty, that Amanda’s universe was going to change and change drastically. It was clear to me that she was destined for greatness.

Suddenly it happened: A media community starved for a fresh perspective?

A television arts review show that needed someone with both an understanding of all mediums of expression and star quality? CBC Arts: Exhibitionists.

A radio show that required expert knowledge of the under-told stories of the R & B/hip hop industries? CBC Music’s Marvin’s Room.

She fulfilled all of these needs and more. One by one the pieces not only fell into place — they were laid at her feet. And she deserves it all.

There is a grace with which she holds knowledge, a respect with which she amplifies the voices of the underrepresented and a sacredness with which she writes that inspires me every day.

Next on the list: Olivia Nuamah

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Rebecca Quinn

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:14 pm

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The Athlete

The highest drafted Canadian woman in the NWSL

BY BREAGHA CARR-HARRIS,
FORMER COACH

Some would say Rebecca Quinn is a natural, that awards and accolades have followed her most of her life, and they wouldn’t necessarily be wrong. The 23-year-old, all-round talented athlete and honours scholar has already had an outstanding athletic and academic career.

Rebecca is an Olympic bronze medal winner with the women’s national soccer team. She’s received a myriad of top honours throughout her time with the Duke women’s soccer program, and most recently, she was drafted third overall in the 2018 National Women’s Soccer League college draft — the highest drafted Canadian in NWSL history.

Without hesitation, I would say Rebecca’s influence on the game of soccer is far reaching, but it’s her conviction and strength of character that are most remarkable. Rebecca has earned every ounce of her accomplishments thus far. At six years old, she asked me (her first soccer coach) how old she had to be before she could join the women’s national team. Most children asking that question have the dream but aren’t prepared for the work associated with it. Rebecca is different. She is relentless and unapologetic when it comes to her preparation, resilient in the face of crushing setbacks, the epitome of what a true teammate is and humble almost to a fault. Next summer Canada will compete at the Women’s World Cup in France — Rebecca was part of the team that qualified.

With her sights set on the sport’s largest tournament, I have no doubt she will continue to inspire young athletes and, who knows, maybe even a six-year-old up-and-comer.

Next on the list: Amanda Parris

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Tanya Talaga

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:13 pm

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The Author

An investigative journalist and the 2018 CBC Massey lecturer

BY JENNIFER PODEMSKI,
ACTOR

A friend of mine had been telling me about his friend Tanya for a few years. He said we would get along, that we had a lot in common. He said she was a journalist, a writer, Indigenous and was born and bred in Toronto like me. It took a few years, but we finally met. It was after her critically acclaimed, award-winning book Seven Fallen Feathers was released and she was becoming a household name.

I was told by our mutual friend that she wanted to explore a business relationship and consider me as a director for a documentary about Seven Fallen Feathers. At our first dinner together I immediately felt like I was in the company of greatness. Our conversation seamlessly shifted from politics and Indigenous issues, to personal struggles and identity crises. While I knew it was a business meeting, I was left vibrating. I felt so lucky to have shared a few hours with a woman who I believe to be one of the most critical voices in our country.

The dialogue her storytelling provokes is paradigm shifting, and I have no doubt that the imprint she leaves will last throughout time, and people will look back and remember Tanya for breaking barriers and changing the landscape of Canadian/Indigenous relations.

The thing I feel most lucky for is that we did work together on the documentary of Seven Fallen Feathers. We’ve spent a lot of time together, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to create with someone who inspires me. Our mutual friend was right, we are similar and we do understand one another, and beyond working together, I’ve found a lifelong friend.

Next on the list: Rebecca Quinn

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Janet Zuccarini

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:13 pm

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The Restaurateur

Her restaurant Felix was nominated for the James Beard Award

BY MIJUNE PAK,
TOP CHEF CANADA JUDGE

The first time I met Janet Zuccarini was on the set of Top Chef Canada in the autumn of 2016. She came into my dressing room to introduce herself, and I was intimidated. At the time, she owned Trattoria Nervosa, Gusto 101, Pai Northern Thai Kitchen and Gusto 54’s Catering and Commissary Kitchen. I knew her as one of the most successful restaurateurs in Toronto, if not in all of Canada.

It took all of five minutes of chatting to know that she was going to be more than my co-judge. I’ve now had the pleasure of working alongside Janet for three incredible seasons, and she’s become not only my colleague, but my mentor and lifelong friend. In this short time, I’ve witnessed her passion and drive first-hand as she’s opened another three restaurants including Chubby’s Jamaican, Kiin and, of course, Felix Trattoria in Los Angeles, one of North America’s hottest restaurants last year. Naturally, she has more in the works.

She’s created an empire and manages over 1,000 employees, many of whom have stayed with her for years. I’ve met her closest friends and confidantes, and they are truly an extension of her passion and genuine nature. Recently, I asked her what it feels like to be responsible for the livelihood of 1,000 plus people, and she put it simply: “I am very lucky and honoured.”

This is the kind of person that she is, one who knows it takes a village to maintain success, especially in an industry as volatile as the restaurant world, and I have nothing but the utmost respect and love for her.

Next on the list: Tanya Talaga

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Chrystia Freeland

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:13 pm

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Chrystia Freeland has been named Canada’s deputy prime minister after a recent cabinet makeover. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed this role to Freeland after rearranging his cabinet to focus on climate change, economic growth for the middle class, public safety and most importantly, national unity. The last time this role was appointed was under Prime Minister Martin in 2003.

In 2018 we named Chrystia Freeland one of our most inspirational women, now she is second in command to the PM. In this article by Bob Rae, discover what it took for Freeland to get to where she is today.

The Politician

Conquering the challenge of the NAFTA trade negotiations

BY BOB RAE,
LAWYER & FORMER MP

I can remember quite vividly my first meeting with Chrystia Freeland. I had stepped down as the MP for Toronto Centre, and when she decided to run for the nomination we went for coffee. We knew each other by reputation but had never met. What impressed me most was her curiosity. A professional journalist, she made a point of jotting things down as she peppered me with questions. This wasn’t a pro forma exercise. She wanted to know what it would take to win a nomination, how I balanced my life and work, what she could expect when she got to Ottawa.

I warned her that her first days in Ottawa would be difficult because the House of Commons has a way of testing newcomers. She survived the comments about her voice being too high and the challenge of handling the heckling. If she was daunted by it, she never showed it.

The election of Donald Trump and the emergence of NAFTA as a key issue led to Chrystia becoming minister of foreign affairs. She mastered the web of details on that issue and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to building a world where rules mattered in trade and the rule of law needed to count in our dealings with the world. Articulate and unfazed by the challenge of dealing with the unpredictable, Chrystia has emerged as a key voice, not just for the government, but for Canada.

Through it all, she is a wife and mother, down-to-earth, disarmingly straightforward and direct. Working with her on the Rohingya file, I saw her show compassion and a willingness to go the extra mile for what she believes in. And she still writes stuff down when we chat. Because she’s curious, and she cares.

Next on the list: Janet Zuccarini

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Annamaria Enenajor

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:12 pm

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The Lawyer

Founder of the Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty

BY HADIYA RODERIQUE,
JOURNALIST
I first discovered the brilliance of Annamaria Enenajor on Twitter. It was refreshing to find a black, female legal voice drawing attention to injustice, delivering zingers and fighting the good fight in the legal world.

A few months later, we met at her law office on a Saturday — she was, as she is most hours, working hard for her clients, the marginalized people she believes are better than their worst mistakes. Over tea that afternoon, her astounding energy and passion for her work radiated from her voice, her words, her hands and her spirit. In her eyes, to quote the Smiths,“[T]here is a light that never goes out.” That light is just a glimpse of the raging fire within, fighting for the most vulnerable in society, who are often also the most criminalized given our society’s tendency to criminalize poverty and disadvantage. It was enough to almost make me want to be a practicing lawyer again, to question if I was doing all I could. I’m certain she has and will continue to inspire many others to take up the legal torch in the fight for social change.

In the past few months, I have learned more about the incredible woman behind some of the legal community’s best Twitter throwdowns and fights for justice. All of it extraordinary — the academic honours, the legal achievements, her quick ascent to partnership and her relentless fight for justice and cannabis amnesty — none of it surprising. To me, she is one of the brightest beacons in our profession, the kind of lawyer we need more than ever in this time of growing inequality. Shine on, Annamaria.

Next on the list: Chrystia Freeland

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Domee Shi

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:12 pm

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The Animator

The first woman to direct a Pixar short with her film Bao

BY NANCY BEIMAN,
SHERIDAN PROFESSOR

For animation students, storyboarding is an intermediate process they need to learn to finish a film. Domee Shi’s work stood out in my first story class at Sheridan in 2008. For one thing, her draftsmanship was outstanding — the result of learning to draw at age five with her father Shi Li, an outstanding painter and educator.

As the class went on, Shi continued to impress me. But when it came time to put together the final story reel, I was a bit discouraged when she told me that she was making a story about two students. It seemed so ordinary. The final product, however, was anything but. Shi developed a hate/love story between a couple that gets their hair stuck together with chewing gum. The plot builds until they are airborne with a flock of birds and cats stuck to peanut butter that was supposed to get the hair “unstuck.” The acting and story were so crazily original that it became part of her portfolio that landed her an internship at Pixar, which turned into a full-time job.

Shi continues to develop complex characters in her work at Pixar. Her short film Bao is a love/hate relationship between an overprotective mother and her child, using a dumpling as a fantastic surrogate. It provides a shocking twist midway and ends in a moving surprise. Shi succeeds amazingly with Bao, and her upcoming projects, which now include a feature film, will continue to surprise audiences. I’m so proud to see her bring a feminine perspective to Pixar and become the second woman to direct a feature film there. She will do them good.

Next on the list: Annamaria Enenajor

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Jully Black

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:10 pm

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The Musician

Inspiring performances from concert stages to Canada Reads

BY CHERIE DIMALINE
AUTHOR

I’d heard rumours, stories really, about magical women who rode into battle with full conviction, chests bursting with altruism and confidence — a powerful combination if ever there was one.

Women who worked hard for other women. Women who didn’t need anyone’s “Atta girl.” But I thought that’s all they were — stories. And then I met Jully Black.

Jully was my defender on the 2018 edition of CBC’s Canada Reads, an annual battle of the books. My book The Marrow Thieves was chosen for the competition. It was a long shot — a book with a storyline that forced Canadians to look at their own genocidal history where Indigenous people are concerned. But there was Jully, on day one, singing her way into the studio, challenging anyone to try to take her marrow.

Jully was in contact daily, making sure she understood the issues, building her case supported by her genuine passion. The day after she learned the Pope refused to apologize for the church’s role in Canadian residential schools, she questioned him and all of us on national TV as a woman of faith. Her performance during the show sparked a movement (and a T-shirt) to “Take it to the altar,” and my book sits on the national bestseller list to this day. This is because Jully rode into battle with it tucked under her admirably toned arm, bringing racism, classism, colonization and Indigenous rights to a huge platform.

Jully is inspiration incarnate. We are so lucky to have her on every stage she has been invited to. She is more than an ally, more than my sister. She is my absolute hero.

Next on the list: Domee Shi

T.O.’s Most Inspirational Women: Jessica Mulroney

By

Andrew Mannsbach

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5:08 pm

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The Stylist

Bringing Canadian fashion to Good Morning America

BY BEN MULRONEY,
ETALK ANCHOR & YOUR MORNING CO-HOST

I am inspired by Jessica because there is only one her. The person I met when I was 16, the woman I married 10 years ago, the mother of my children, the philanthropist, the stylist, the friend, the entrepreneur, the daughter and the businesswoman: they are all the same person. From the moment I laid eyes on her, right up until today, Jessica has remained true to herself.

She has not closed off her generous spirit or her forgiving nature. She does not offer a hand in friendship unless she wants to be your friend and she does not say one thing in public and another in private.

The person Jessica is around a boardroom table is the exact same person who makes me laugh from across our dining room table. There is only one Jessica.

She trusts herself and is willing to bet that she and she alone is enough. I am inspired by her courage of spirit and her dogged determination to build everything in her life on the same authentic foundations. I am inspired by the fact that so many people — from so many walks of life — have been drawn in by who she is and what she projects. And I am inspired by her courage to resolutely and uncompromisingly be judged by the work she puts in and the results she delivers. There is only one Jessica.

One wonderful, beautiful, amazing, funny, loving, witty, courageous, singular Jessica. And that is a good thing, because if I found out there was more of her walking around, I don’t think my heart could handle it.

Next on the list: Jully Black