Laurie Townshend: 

Michelle Anbar-Goldstein: 

Sarah Doucet: Dancer, choreographer, rehearsal director, costume designer, jewellery designer, stylist, feminist, queer, activist, fixer, fighter, lover of chips, bigger lover of all things sparkly, vintage clothes collector, proud auntie, animal lover, eldest of 7, fiercely devoted friend. 

Best advice I’ve ever received:  "keep yer pecker up." my Mom - Twinkle

Favourite quote from favourite choreographer: "Dance, dance, otherwise we are lost." - Pina Bausch  

Favourite quote from favourite designer: "I think there is beauty in everything. What ’normal’ people perceive as ugly, I can usually see something of beauty in it."  - Alexander McQueen

Talli Osborne: Inspirational speaker, advocate, punk rocker. 

Rusul Alrubail is the Executive Director of Parkdale Centre for Innovation.  She launched the centre because she believes in the power of voice, community and supporting diverse talent, traditionally pushed to the margins.  Rusul is also an author, educator, social justice advocate, and mom of two.  twitter.com/rusulalrubail 

Books are how Jael Ealey Richardson came to understand what it means to be black in Canada. But books by black authors and writing workshops led by folks of colour were important to her and hard to find. So after publishing a memoir about her life and her father, CFL quarterback Chuck Ealey - THE STONE THROWER - Jael founded the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) where she continues to serve as the Artistic Director for Canada’s first literary festival centred around marginalized voices, which is held in Brampton, Ontario in May. Since the FOLD began, Jael has also published a children’s book (also called The Stone Thrower) and is a regular book columnist for CBC’s q. Her debut novel, Gutter Child is due in Fall 2020 with HarperCollins Canada. jaelrichardson.com theFOLDCanada.org twitter.com/jaelrichardson twitter.com/theFOLD_

As a steadfast and vocal advocate for the inclusion of people with disabilities, Christine Karcza left her mark on many fronts. Her vision and business mission was to make accessibility an everyday consideration instead of an afterthought. Nowhere was this effort more visible than in the arts community across Ontario. Her expertise brought accessibility improvements to clients and patrons of Luminato, the Fringe Festival, Stratford Festival, Fall for Dance, Gardiner Museum, the ROM, TO Live, Mirvish Productions and many more. Shortly before her passing, Christine was honoured to be named a Senior Fellow of Massey College and brought her passion to a number of new initiatives there. The disability advocacy community has lost the voice of a true trailblazer.

Christine Simpson: NHL hockey broadcaster and features reporter for Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada, advocate, ally and sometime shit disturber. We’ve come a long way from when I was often the only woman in the locker room but we sure have a ways to go. Doing my part to change hockey culture. 

Cynthia Zamaria. I took the leap. From a successful career in PR to a dream realized as a floral and interior designer. Through my soul-fulfilling work I hope to encourage us all to make meaningful spaces that become the beautiful, comforting backdrops for our lives.

My superpower is my creative energy and optimism that allows me to see the potential, especially in old houses that need to be saved and gardens that need to be loved. My floristry approach is grounded in the Slow Flower Movement meaning I grow specialty blooms sustainably and create uncontrived, seasonal arrangements. My interiors begin with the premise that homes have souls which translates into true-to-the-space and emotionally-fueled mash-ups of tradition, texture and colour.

One of my favourite sayings is: “Sometimes on your way to your dream you get lost and find a better one.” So, I say to you: “Wander.”

instagram.com@cynthiazamaria | www.cynthiazamaria.com

Sarah Chan: Manager, Africa Scouting - Toronto Raptors. “You can affect the world in your capacity, don't downplay your ability. Keep dreaming, it's possible and you're capable”. 

Tova: The first time I was on stage I was 10 years old. I performed a Holocaust monologue as a mother who had just seen her baby thrown into the air and shot by Nazis. Acting allowed me to make sense of the pain I felt growing up as a daughter of Holocaust survivors. It also allowed me an escape into worlds where I could be happy.

An award winning actor, writer and singer Tova is "An Artist Canadians should celebrate”... Toronto Star. Recognized by NOW Magazine as one the Top Ten Toronto theatre artists of 2017 for bringing two unforgettable mothers to the stage: the controlling, seen-it-all matriarch who put the “tough” in Tough Jews, then the woman caught between devout husband and restless artistic son in The Jazz Singer. As ACTRA Toronto President, she also proved an effective spokesperson working to change the culture of sexual harassment in the film and television industry. 

I grew up in a small village in Jamaica, and from an early age I knew that I was an African child.  My journey includes being a mother, counselor, advocate, activist, all the while being a teacher and travelling.

I fell in love with Ghana in 2006 and noticed that children didn't have access to books, so I began co-creating libraries with communities there.  I founded Links Across Borders to formalize the work and coordinate volunteer groups to participate in the projects in Ghana.  To date, we have completed 8 libraries.

Each time that I face a new challenge, or possible set back, I focus on the opportunities that will be on the other side of that challenge.  I become still, ask for guidance, and turn my attention to the nudges from Spirit.

My life's work is to teach and facilitate transformational processes that connect individuals to the life of their dreams. Together we can make each other's dreams come true.  

My name is Sylvia Morrison.  I'm here, in love and service. www.linksacrossborders.org

Jo Orsatti is a forensic artist by trade, but in life she is much more. A Mamma and Nonna to human and animal children a plenty; she is guided by her compassion, caring, laughter and love. She sees herself as a resourceful and creative painter, illustrator and mixed media "Artist at Life."

Leela Gilday: I walk in two worlds. My music, my words, my life and my body are a reflection of where I’m from and who I have become. I am a singer/songwriter, proud member of the Dene Nation, northern girl, independent artist, advocate for social justice, teller of stories, family member. In my most cherished dreams my music uplifts and empowers my people, reaches across social and cultural barriers, breaks chains, enlightens, brings solace to sorrow, shines a light in the darkness and tells the truth. My hope is that I help to bring about a world where people find true justice, where our children have clean water, where we live in balance with our earth, where we respect and listen to one another, and celebrate our differences. And then we can begin. leelagilday.com

Sook-Yin Lee: Broadcaster, musician, actor, filmmaker.

I am honoured to be a part of this incredible series that Lisa MacIntosh has created.

More about me, my writing, and my work can be found at rileyyesno.com and @Rileyyesnomaybe on Twitter.

Sharon Lewis: Artist, rebel, filmmaker, tv maker, performer, caribbean-canadian, mother, I tell stories but they aren’t lies.

Measha Brueggergosman: Servant. Diva. Muse. Mother. Flawed. Magnetic. Gobsmacked. Canadian. Inspired. Turnt up. Saved by grace. 

Helen Paddle: First female car salesperson in Toronto, sensible farm girl, snappy dresser, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, frugal, tenacious, prudent, no-bullshit, excellent laugher.

Chief Lady Bird (Ogimaa Kwe Bnes): Rama First Nation and Moosedeer Point First Nation. Eagle clan, Illustrator, street artist, Aquarius, French Bulldog mom. instagram.com/chiefladybird

Emily Mills: I work – aka hustle – hard. And I laugh hard too – especially in the presence of amazing women who bring me joy. This week, I’m celebrating 40 years of life surrounded by sisterhood – women who continue to wrap me in so much love and wisdom it’s hard to hold such enormous gifts. But I do so with a heart of gratitude. Because we all need to feel uplifted, especially as we take up space in the world. Without apology, I’m committed to taking up more space for diverse women, racialized women, women of colour right here in Toronto, Canada.

I’ve been doing this for almost a decade through my How She Hustles network – we host local events for women like me are often underrepresented by traditional women’s networks in the city. We hold space for us to gather, to share personal and professional experiences, to connect with like-minded women, to be paid and valued for our work, and to be to be the rule – not the exception.

I’m also a journalist and communicator by profession, so I’ve been intentional about taking up space in 'mainstream' media to amplify voices – and perspectives – that need to be heard more. I’ve tried to build bridges between communities to make way for positive change.

All this work matters, but not more than my family – I’m a proud wife and mom of two energetic little boys. On my 40^th birthday, I am thankful for the journey thus far and I’m ready for the road ahead. Thanks so much for including me, Lisa, and to Carrie Martin for accommodating this photo shoot in her private loft. EM www.howshehustles.com www.twitter.com/howshehustles

Denise Donlon: As fearless as possible, author.

Mary Walsh: Mental health and addiction advocate, novelist, actor, satirist, activist, director, mother, Newfoundlander.

Colinda Clyne: Nibi Biwajigan Kwe (Water Vision Woman). Anishinaabe kwe (Kitigan Zibi). Mother, educator, warrior, helper, friend, coffee connoisseur. Believes in the power of a single tweet. Living in gratitude. twitter.com/@clclyne

Maie Pauts: Broadcaster. boom 97.3 and going back 30+ years of radio at 104.5 CHUM FM, Mojo Radio, CFNY/EDGE 102.1, CKMW 790 AM. 88.1 CKLN. Spokesperson for Radio Trailblazers: Inspiring and Mentoring Women in Broadcasting. Interviewer. Voice-over Talent. Charity Events Host. Music lover. Concert goer. Gardener. Lover of British crime books and TV. Pretty good cook. Amazing shortbread baker. Mother. Sister. Friend. Happy to be here.

Jennifer Baichwal has been directing and producing documentaries for over 20 years. Among other films, installations and lens-based projects, she has made ten feature documentaries which have played all over the world and won multiple awards nationally and internationally.  Baichwal sits on the board of Swim Drink Fish Canada, and is a member of the Ryerson University School of Image Arts Advisory Council. She has been a Director of the Board of the Toronto International Film Festival since 2016, and is passionate ambassador of their Share Her Journey campaign, a five-year commitment to increasing participation, skills, and opportunities for women behind and in front of the camera. 

Gerri Nakirigya Lutaaya belongs to the Ngonge clan within the Buganda kingdom.

Bif Naked: Performing artist, poet, bare-knuckle fighter, human and animal rights activist, goddess, survivor 

Lynn Bebee and Kerry Wade:  Two like-minded punk rock chicks with a background in fashion, joined forces and created the iconic lifestyle brand, Blackbird Studios. 10 years later, they are manufacturing their label at the Cotton Factory in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and selling at their shop at 123 James Street North.

Made for a girl with a past and a woman with a history.

blackbirdstudios.ca

Rosanne Cash: singer, songwriter, author, activist, advocate for gun control, trying to live a fearless life. 

rosannecash.com

Sue Carr: mum, grandmother, pastor. Works at 541 Eatery and Exchange; a non-profit cafe in Hamilton, Ontario, where you can pay it forward to help nurture a diverse community of belonging around the table. www.fivefortyone.ca

Jennifer Podemski: I’m honoured to be a part of this incredible campaign created by Lisa MacIntosh. To be recognized alongside women who edge stretch, challenge perception and rise above adversity is an honour.

Producer/Writer/Director/Actor Redcloud Studios Inc. jenniferpodemski.com

Aisha Addo: philanthropist, entrepreneur, speaker, carefree black girl, motivator, sister and friend, lover of all things girl empowerment - powertogirls.com, driveher.ca, aishaaddo.com

Jill Miwa: physicist, associate professor, traveller, photographer.

Damhnait Doyle: Mama, wife, daughter, friend, singer, songwriter, storyteller, speaker, listener, learner, friend, and seeker. damhnaitdoyle.com

Eugenia Duodu:  Scientist, leader, community advocate and soccer fan. She obtained her PhD in chemistry from the University of Toronto and is currently the CEO of Visions of Science. She works to provide meaningful opportunities for youth from low income communities to achieve their full potential. www.vosnl.org

Brighid Fry and Pascale Padilla: We are lucky to be going into careers in music at a time where things are shifting in such a positive direction. Women are looking out for one another and we have been mentored by some of the finest. Kritty Uranowski (Girls Rock Camp), Samantha Martin, The Good Lovelies, Leah Fay, Amy Cole, Amy Milan, Kinnie Starr, Liv and Anita Cozzola, Oh Susanna and many many more have encouraged us in various ways. We are so fortunate to be continually running into and finding connections with the many incredible inspirational women in Canada's music scene.  moscowapartment.ca

Shirley Lum: Creator of A Taste of the World Neighbourhood Walks, where I get to combine the peeling back of Toronto's unique layers as Food Historian, Literary Detective and GhostWalk guide.  New passion: Chocolatier curating tastings to share the magic of chocolate. Judging the International Chocolate Awards, the Canadian Competition as Guest Grand Jury. 2-wheeled adventurist. Pioneer. Avid rooftop gardener. CBC aka Canadian born Chinese who's voice has been heard on numerous CBC radio Fresh Air shows.  instagram.com/A_Taste_of_the_World, instagram.com/SChocolateMagic

Richa Gupta: Who am I? One of the hardest questions to answer when you are not just talking about what you do.  I am ever evolving yet always rooted in the core values that I grew up with. My stance on a lot of things has changed over time as I matured into who I am today and I am not sure where it will be in the next few years.  What hasn't changed is my love for meaning, authenticity and honesty. My search for meaning in my life got me to where I am today. Loving life and making a difference through food. goodfoodforgood.ca

Kadey BJ Schultz: Award winning Canadian litigator and co-managing partner of Schultz Frost LLP (www.SchultzFrost.com) • professor at the University of Windsor Law School • champion for children with disabilities • mama fighting to end the monster of a disease Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy • member of the Board of Directors of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab Hospital Foundation • unrelenting advocate for women in leadership and #MeToo • WIFE • tweeter of gratitude and change making (@KadeyBJSchultz) • seriously curious, strategic, optimistic and full of energy.

The Women of WEP: (from left) Robyn Colangelo (art director, year 1), Julia Hambleton (distribution manager), Janet Morassutti (managing editor) and Melanie Morassutti (deputy editor) have what they believe to be the funnest job in Canadian journalism, cranking out the paper edition of the West End Phoenix from their office on the 2nd floor of The Gladstone Hotel. The high points include creative freedom, flexibility and the deep thrill of collaborating with people – writers, artists, volunteers, community members and colleagues – they love. www.westendphoenix.com

Tantoo Cardinal: Adventuring on the Winds.

Julia Gray: Someone wise, many years ago, said to me "do what keeps you soft." I try and return to this idea of doing not necessarily what is easy, but what keeps me soft. I work to be in good relationships with family, in the broadest sense of the word. I am a writer, a mum, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a best-friend-to-one-guy-in-particular, and I work to be a most curious artist and researcher. possiblearts.ca

Ceta Ramkhalawansingh:  During Canada's centennial year, my parents moved our family from Trinidad and Tobago to a new home in Toronto.

I am or have been a volunteer, city builder, feminist, student, university lecturer, researcher, human rights advocate, publisher, student leader, public servant, city councillor.  I am also a friend, a sister, a niece, an aunt and a daughter.

My values are rooted in feminist and human rights principles.

Personal rules: Be kind, Be generous, Be engaged, Be informed.

Liz Renzetti: Author, journalist, feminist. Trying to talk less and listen more. Grateful to all the sisters out there and the work they do. twitter.com/lizrenzetti

Barbette Kensington: It was October, 1954, I was four years old and living on a dairy farm when Hurricane Hazel hit Ontario. I remember standing outside with my father staring at the sky, I have never seen one like this since. The horses were running around the paddock in a frenzy and the cows were laying in the pasture refusing to move. Suddenly, a tractor-pulled hay wagon pulled up in the yard full of neighbouring farmers. They immediately jumped off and helped secure our livestock into the barn. It happened so fast, then my father jumped on the wagon with them and they were off to the next farm. I think this was the pivotal point in my life that lead me to becoming a community worker.

In the mid 60s, I was at the University of Toronto but it was the Community Worker Program at George Brown that caught my attention. I did not want to be a social worker, I wanted to work along side of people making change. I have practiced community work for over 35 years; working with colleges and universities, churches, my Native community, community centres and various theatres and music events. Complications from Diabetes ended my full time work and I am content at this age to do volunteer work.

Eight years ago, I started the Kensington Kittypants Fund in partnership with Dundas Euclid Animal Hospital to assist seniors within their practice with the care of their pet companions. Every year we have a fundraiser featuring live bands, great gift certificates from more than 25 Kensington Market merchants and a traditional moose feast. I am so proud and honoured to see how many people get involved and share this vision. This to me is true community work.

Jadine Baldwin is an 18 year old aspiring author and advocate for people with disabilities. A daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter and lover of all things books and tea. She is a vibrant, humble, strong, independent woman who believes that she can change the world (one wheel at a time). Jadine wants to attend University and become the next John Green or Rupi Kaur (favourite authors). She knows that true beauty comes from within, but still enjoys a little bit of glitter on the outside from time to time. When she is passionate, you will hear her roar! 

Kris Noakes: Anishinaabekwe. Finding balance with one foot in a canoe and one foot on the gas pedal.  Mother, advocate, peacekeeper, lifelong learner, lover of green tea and smiles.

Julia Hanigsberg: Mom, wife, kids health change-maker, disability stigma fighter (#DearEverybody), champion of diversity & women in leadership, tweeter (@hanigsberg), mentor, blogger (https://hollandbloorview.wordpress.com/), optimist. 

Allison Dore: "Comedy in Canada is a very difficult landscape for everyone, as there is very little money or support; but I noticed that women in particular weren't recording albums at the same rate as their male counterparts. After being annoyed and stewing about it for about a year, I suddenly realized that I was in a unique position to make it easier for comics.

Shawna Woudstra: Competitive Race Car driver, adrenaline junkie and lover of all things motorized. Originally wanted to be a ballerina, now piloting a 200mph Top Dragster. 911 operator and dispatcher, adventure seeker and dog lover. Nothing without friends and family. Pretty good at turning a wrench, changing a tire and getting dirty, although you’d never know it by looking at her. Strong believer in inspiring girls to chase their dreams.  www.instagram.com/shawnawanarace

Kathy Grant was born in Montreal to Barbadian parents Owen Rowe, a former WWII veteran, diplomat and Head of Social Development at the Prison for Women in Kingston, Ontario and Joan Rowe, a former school teacher. They instilled the value of history, education and service to each of their three children.

Before her dad passed away, Kathy promised him that she would bring Black Canadian Military History and Black Canadian History into public consciousness. For the past decade, Kathy has devoted her efforts to documenting, digitizing and videotaping the stories of Black Canadian veterans that donned the Canadian uniform in defence of Canada and also gathering stories linked to Black History in Canada.

She places an emphasis on interviewing veterans, inviting participation from the loved ones of deceased veterans, public engagement, and connecting Black veteran stories to Canadian history. Her social media page, Black Canadian Veterans Stories of War dedicated to this initiative, receives half a million views per year. Kathy has made educational presentations to municipalities, schools, and community organizations in order to promote inclusive storytelling and historical documentation. https://www.facebook.com/BlackCanadianVeterans

Through Kathy’s efforts the Government created a web feature called 'Black Canadians in Uniform, a Proud Tradition'.This unique online feature is used by educators, teachers, students and the general public. https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/those-who-served/black-canadians-in-uniform/history

Her efforts were formally acknowledged in 2012, when Kathy received a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Cathy Barrick:  Cathy is driven by purpose. You can see it come to life with an all-consuming passion that you might expect from a stadium-filling rockstar rather than charitable sector CEO. She is a big thinker and a big personality, but she never misses the little things that matter the most to the people around her.

As CEO of Alzheimer Society of Ontario, her resume includes social worker, fundraiser, social innovator and many accolades. But her deep empathy for people living with dementia is her north star. She is inspired daily by the memories of her own grandparents’ journey with Alzheimer’s and a childhood spent with them, close to nature.

She is committed day in and day out to funding innovative research and transforming policy and services in the fight against Alzheimer’s. But she never loses the opportunity to share the joy and celebrate a quiet moment, in the journey of a single client’s life.

alzheimer.ca

Jill Chen: Creating a sustainable life with aquaponics on an urban farm.  Mother of 3 humans, 2 canines, 6 felines, a pig, duck, quails and tilapia.  freestylefarm.ca instagram.com/@jillfreestylefarm     

Jo-Anne McArthur is a photojournalist, author and educator, and the founder of We Animals Media, which focuses on the stories of animals within the context of the human environment. Jo keeps a gruelling travel schedule but is nonetheless eternally grateful that she gets to help animals every single day. weanimals.org

Andrea Zackary - Oral deaf, event planner, social entrepreneur. Founder of Def Events & Beyond.  Proud mother of 4 girls, wife, gymnastics mom, networker, mentor and motivator. Working hard to give back to the deaf community. Kids first, they are the future. Together we can make a difference! #thinkbig #dreambig #noexcuses

defeventsbeyond.ca FB, Twitter, IG @defeventsbeyond

Tara Slone is a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, an aunt, a friend. Lead singer of the Juno-nominated band Joydrop, a Rock Star: INXS alumnus, the co-host of Rogers Hometown Hockey, a lifelong student of Tibetan Buddhism, a feminist, a fierce LGBTQ ally, passionate about bringing attention to Canada’s First Nations. Relentlessly curious, a believer in kindness, compassion, vulnerability, and basic goodness. Always in search of good food.  taraslone.ca hometownhockey.com

Jenn Harper: mother, wife, social entrepreneur, speaker. Working hard to show Indigenous youth that they can create the life they dream about. Believes that the key to real happiness is how much we care about others, but we can’t do that until we love ourselves. So grateful to live another day sober! cheekbonebeauty.ca

Anna Gustafson packed all of her everything’s and moved to a city 32,000 times the size of her hometown. All of her new everything’s come from the places in between.

Career comedian and producer with intentions to create live comedy and collaborative experiences where women are more fairly represented and heard, particularly those mid-career. Creating a community of these women through #firecrackerCOMEDYdept. Telling stories about “community” and “finding your people” through public speaking work and writing. 

Producer at YYComedy Festival in Calgary and the Resident Comedian at Gilda’s Club Toronto. Currently experiencing a fierce renaissance.  www.annagustafson.ca

Dorothy Deane: Shining star. Canada's top female vocalist back in the Big Band era with all of the top dance bands and stage orchestras of those glorious times. Also a radio star and popular performer in the early days of television.

Dorothy started singing professionally at age 16, became Canada's 'Jingle Queen" in the 1950's and sang hundreds of memorable radio and tv commercials in the early 60's. An inspiration to female artists back in the day.

Dorothy is in her 98th year and remains a towering inspiration to her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all who know and lover her.

Dawn is an award-wining diversity activist/organizer who is a Mohawk woman from Tyendinaga. A single mother and cancer survivor; Dawn has worked with and for Indigenous communities and organizations for nearly three decades in the areas of Indigenous Education, Health and Governance, as well as Women’s causes and the Arts. Working locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, she is an in-demand speaker and writer in countries such as Canada, the USA, Italy, Germany and Australia. She has emceed to audiences of thousands at the Parliament of World Religions and spoken at numerous women’s marches in Toronto; and has sat as esteemed member of the UNESCO Arts and Education Roundtable. Dawn's company SKYroots provides Indigenous education, training and consulting to the private sector, while HOPES Indigenous Training Network (a not-for-profit) seeks to raise funds to bring leadership and cultural training to Indigenous groups and organizations, prioritizing access to Indigenous women, trans and two-spirit peoples.  facebook.com/dmaracle1, Twitter: @dtmaracle Instagram: @dawnmaraclesky, DawnTMaracle.com

Jayna Hefford: Hockey player.  Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018. 5 time Olympian & 7 time World Champion. Commissioner of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League. Professional speaker focussing on change, adaptability, resilience and culture. Mother of 3, loves to cook, believes in the power of opportunity.  jaynahefford.ca, thecwhl.com

Hannah Alper: Activist, blogger, author, kindraiser, change maker, traveller, eco-warrior, motivational speaker.  "I believe we all have the capacity and responsibility to create change. I don't care how old you are or how young you are, where you live or how much money you have. The ability to create change does not discriminate, it's in everyone." callmehannah.ca

It was an incredibly fortunate the day I met my colleague and friend, Lynn Courey, founder of The Sashbear Foundation in a sociology class six years ago. We quickly realized we are both on parallel mindful journeys and we found out very quickly when we collaborate, we prove to be a powerful team offering unconditional support of each other’s different strengths and creativity. Such as when we embarked on an enormously impactful project: the life changing, enlightening mindfulness 14-part documentary film series, ‘Having a Life Worth Living’! It continues to help countless of families and individuals around the world who struggle with the often misunderstood and misdiagnosed Borderline Personality Disorder. Through the testimonies of 14 courageous individuals we offer hope to so many others who might be lost. Lynn and I stand united to break the stigma of mental illness and for a more mindful, compassionate society. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cAmuiFkE8Q

Karen Waddell: Professional Actor; Documentary filmmaker (‘Having A Life Worth Living’); Mental Health Ambassador for The Sashbear Foundation: advocate and educator; Forever Student: (Recently went back to school at age 50!! Graduating in Social Work Studies as well as honoured to be now recognized as a CFM Qualified Mindfulness–Based Stress Reduction Teacher from UMASS Medical School)!; Meditator; Painter; Adventurer; Always welcoming more simplicity, more listening, curiosity, new possibilities, laughter, music, books, and more profound connections into my life. Proud Mama of two excellent boys and wife of 30 years to John Ralston. https://karenwaddell.wixsite.com

Lynn Courey: Suicide prevention advocate, community service mental health provider, family support, caregiver, wife and mother.

Annelise Noronha: Engineer, producer, composer. Teacher and mentor. Hopeful for the future of the Canadian Music Industry.  

Kayt Lucas: high steel rigger, singer songwriter, industrial designer, waitress, retired dancer - kaytlucas.com

Anne Woolger: A chance encounter with a refugee over 30 years ago changed the course of my life. His heart-wrenching story of escaping persecution ended with his account of feeling painfully unwelcome upon arrival in Canada. His story so deeply moved me that I decided to begin volunteering with refugees to help them feel more welcome.

Fast forward 30 years and I'm still helping make them feel welcome!

Kim Thompson Steel: Teller of visual stories, people-loving introvert, supporter of women's voices, seeker of ways to uplift humanity through photography. Current project: shooting for the Chef-In-Training program www.sproutscookingclub.org/chef-in-training-program of Sprouts Cooking Club in the San Francisco Bay Area. They support underserved youth with hands-on training in the food industry, working with real restaurants under real chefs.

After telling stories as a character animator on award winning visual effects films and commercials for many years, Kim continues to create visual narratives through her photography and occasional video work. Her current projects encompass her love of natural light, food and environmental portraits of makers and creative entrepreneurs with their work.

She supports The Hivery's www.thehivery.com marketing efforts as a Visual Content Producer, and is a contributor to the collaborative photography blog Viewfinders www.viewfinders.io/authour/kim-thompson-steel where she shares her thoughts on image-making alongside a community of amazing women photographers.

Piper Hayes: Exuberant, passionate, inclusive, whimsical, abundant -

Rev. Linda Wheler: For more than 20 years I have been privileged to work with congregations, creating places where people feel welcomed, accepted and included. As a Minister, I have been blessed with the opportunity to walk closely with people of all ages in difficult and tender moments, in times of joy and celebration, and in times of questioning and seeking. It is inspiring to witness God at work in simple yet powerful ways to give young and old alike the courage to live their faith and make a difference in the world. 

Proud wife, mom, grandy. Woman of faith. Welcoming. Grateful. Lover of life and people. I am always grateful for the love and support of family and friends.  www.trinityuc.ca

Thea Munster is the creator of the Toronto Zombie Walk, the first event of its kind, spawning zombie walks around the world. When not organizing odd occurrences Thea is a videographer, writer, traveller, tarot reader and aspiring thereminist - my1000moons.com

Jill Daum: I'm a mother, a wife, a playwright, an actor and most recently a caregiver.

My husband John Mann was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's 6 years ago and my son was diagnosed with a mental illness 5 years ago.

I have been working as an actor and writer for over 35 years. I'm one of the performers and co-creators of the internationally acclaimed plays: Moms the Word, Moms the Word Unhinged, Moms the Word ReMixed and Moms the Word Nest 1/2 Empty. Our shows have been seen in 17 different countries and translated into 11 languages. I also wrote the drama/comedy Forget About Tomorrow which premiered at the Arts Club Theatre and the Belfry Theatre in 2018. It's a story close to home for me about a woman whose husband receives a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's.

Jaiden Dal Bello, an 18 year old aspiring Toronto filmmaker and photographer studying in New York City at the School of Visual Arts. Wants to share stories based on her real life experiences to hopefully inspire and try to change the world, even just a tiny bit. www.vimeo.com/jaidendalbello www.jaidendalbello.com

Isabel Zatti:  Early Childhood Educator, committed to inclusion, collaborator, facilitator, adapter, storyteller, actor, play advocate, lifelong learner, dreamer.  Surrounded and inspired by amazing families and colleagues. Devoted daughter, mother, nonna, partner, friend, Italian, dwelling in possibility.  Thank you to Lisa for including me in this awesome series.

Marcia Brown is a Woman of Distinction, an educator and Founder/Executive Director of Trust 15 Youth Community Support Organization where future leaders are mentored and given hope. Marcia surrounds herself with people who have the same passion for youth and the desire to restore greatness that is often hidden; striving towards breaking the shackles that have kept so many young people down and without hope. She is an advocate, a leader and feels most comfortable sharing her message on the street and in schools in her community. She has found peace in giving peace back to the people in her life. A favourite quote that Marcia shares is "Your crown has already been bought and paid for, all you have to do is wear it" - James Baldwin. www.trust15.com

Penny Eizenga: “A filmmaker on the journey to trust my own voice, my gut, my intuition, whatever you choose to call it, more than ever.” www.dogearedproductionsinc.com

Halina Stopyra: Reinventing myself, bravely changing stale circumstances, forming new dreams and having a strong sense of purpose. Sharing, helping others and having JOY is my recipe for approaching a mature age; it also leads me to my most authentic self and my creative freedom. Being an artist and expressing my soul is what I'm most grateful for. The focal point of my paintings is a woman in settings that suggest inclusion and oneness. She is one with nature, she is creating life around her, her heart and mind are open and she can do it all and be everything.

Evie Bacopulos: Tattoo artist from Toronto, Canada. Bringing accessibility and raising standards of areola repigmentation to a community in need. www.instagram.com/tattoosbyevelyn

Jen Ochej: At my core, I’m a detail person who thrives under pressure and loves being the problem solver. I’m the one people come to when they need something done, figured out, or taken off their plate, and when I took on my first Tour Management gig (three weeks in the UK with Sarah Jane Scouten), I knew it was what I was born to do– a perfect culmination of my skills and passions. I always say if I'm doing my job right, the artist won't have to worry about anything except putting on their best show every night - I may not always succeed, but that's the goal every day. I'm a Tour Manager, a friend, a sister, a daughter, a comic book nerd, a total homebody who craves being on the road and loves living out of a suitcase on a tour bus, a wanderer; sometimes too serious, always thinking, and always up for anything with the people I love. I've worked hard to get where I am and do what I do, and consider myself lucky as hell every day to be - truly, genuinely - living the dream.  twitter.com/jenochej

Jana Girdauskas: mama of two, founder of The Period Purse, menstrual equity advocate, social impact leader, optimist  instagram.com/theperiodpurse,  twitter.com/theperiodpurse, fb.com/theperiodpurse

Kathryn Fudurich: I view my life as a series of choices that lead me closer to what success and happiness look like to me, not to fit anyone else's perception or projection of those things. Daughter. Partner. River's Mom. Sister. Caregiver. Friend. Alzheimer's Advocate. Musician. Solo Canoe Tripper. Business Owner. Whatever I Want To Be... I believe that giving back in a meaningful way in a world that's so wildly out of balance is what we're here for. I believe that carving out time for yourself and the really important things in a world that glorifies stress and being busy is a conscious choice that we are all accountable for. I strive to live a consistent practice of patience, gratitude, self-acceptance, and wider understanding of the varying lenses humans experience life through.  kathfilms.com memoryball.org

Ren Navarro: fan of cats, tattoos and craft beer. Resident trouble maker. Giver of epic hugs. Talk a LOT about the ongoing need for diversity in beer.

Michelle Shephard: journalist, author, filmmaker, traveler, life-lover, nerd; tries to shed light in dark corners, laughs easily and adores her goofy Labradoodle named Dorothy Parker, who shares none of the writers' cynical traits. twitter.com/shephardm michelleshepard.ca

Rae Ellen Bodie: learner, teacher, meditator, breather, noise-maker, lover, fighter, crone - raeellenbodie.com

Savoy Howe: boxing name Kapow! Howe, boxing coach, New Brunswicker, former comedian, instigator, activist, out of the box thinker, safe space provider, softy - torontonewsgirls.com

Sarah Dougall is the trail-blazing entrepreneur and brainchild behind Toronto's famous Made You Look Jewellery Studio and Retail Gallery. Sarah’s desire to push the boundaries has brought together makers and designers in a collaborative environment that supports the local arts community, the artists and the neighbourhood. She lives by the motto: create the world you’d like to see.  madeyoulook.ca

Beth Pollock: Exploring the world with a sense of wonder. Travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, and has stories to tell about each of them. Avid reader and author of three children’s books. Imaginative, gentle, tenacious. Mother, wife, daughter. If you need to talk, I’ll listen (and I’ll bring a plate of freshly baked ginger snaps). Loving the world and all the people I meet here.  bethtravels.com instagram.com/bpollock

Jen McCain:  Entrepreneur & Investor, Master's of Business Administration and Bachelor's Degree in Business Management.  "None but ourselves can free our minds." - Bob Marley   saveourscruff.org, iriecapital.com  

Debbie Donsky:  Mommy, teacher, leader, writer, thinker, creator, learner of all things, seeking spaces of possibility through equity, inclusion and social justice. debbiedonsky.com twitter.com/DebbieDonsky Instagram.com@DebDonsky

Jane Harbury:  "I am honoured to have been photographed by Lisa for this series.  I'm a Gemini, which may not mean anything.  My whole life has been a series of unplanned, unthought-out adventures, none of which I regret.  Still fortunate to work with amazing artists.  Perhaps most will say 'she posts great stuff on Facebook - mainly animals' or 'you should write a book'.  I'm more than fine with the first comment but the book writing bit, too busy making a living."   janeharbury.wordpress.com

Mary-Lynne Howell: mother, farmer, teacher, leader and mentor of youth, Jerseygirl, agriculture and environment advocate, adventurer, finder of fun, pioneer, nurturer, lover of life, loyal friend and extremely blessed.

Michelle Peek: Photographer, artist, dreamer. Founder and Creative Director of Art Not Shame. Mental health advocate. PhD. Dancer at heart. Can’t stop thinking about love and belonging. Always learning. Potty-mouthed. Sensitive. Thoughtful. Imperfect. Vulnerable.

www.artnotshame.org

www.michellepeek.ca

Dana Bookman: Mother. Believer that anything is possible. Recognizes the power that comes from girls playing team sports. Founder of Canadian Girls Baseball. torontogirlsbaseball.com

Leslie Arden: I spent my youth trying to decide whether to spend my life with animals and nature, or with music. Now I divide my time between composing, writing, playing and singing at my grand piano, and boarding and fostering dogs on my beautiful ten acres in Ontario farmland. It’s all about balance. lesliearden.com

Sam Campbell: quietly understated, dreamer, doer, animal lover, farmer, hopeful environmentalist. Purveyor of connecting people, places and things. Having a blast with her mid-life "re-launch" as a  B&B/Farm Retreat host.  cobblestonefarmretreat.ca 

Michele Gare: kind, persistent, thoughtful, loving, strong, passionate, giving, music lover, optimistic, endurer, problem solver

Laura Maness: CEO of Havas New York. Wholehearted, servant leader that uplifts people and helps them grow, be and become (more like) themselves. Advocates for women and meaningful change as original signer and steering committee member of Time’s Up/Advertising.  Lives with her husband Steven Brisson and young son in New York's historic TriBeCa neighbourhood. Enjoys SoulCycling, pilates, river walks, street art, pop up shops, bold California reds and HEYMAMA meet-ups. Passionate about building community and fueling imaginations as cofounder of Love Bug Café & Play. lovebugcafeplay, Instagram: @lauramaness, twitter.com/pinkbird_biz

Rachel Rashotte: view from our balcony lady, lover of all things natural, healthy choices come first, seven years sober, compassionate mother, partner, friend.

Jen Squires - photographer, artist, antique enthusiast and lover of light. jensquiresphotographer.com

Joanne Ramolo: woman, partner, mother, friend, kind, compassionate, brave, resilient, cancer survivor  

Liza Cohen: proud mother, partner, sister, daughter, friend, social worker and compassionate being. Grateful. Thankful. Blessed.

Ashley Jacot De Boinod: food soldier, professional giggler, peppery, fungi enthusiast, lover of beasts, servant to all those in need, shop mum, pro cyclist wannabe, authentically me, hobbit, comedy addict - gloryholedoughnuts.com

Vivienne McMaster: photographer, body acceptance advocate, wonder seeker, nature nerd, creative entrepreneur. After realizing the camera was a powerful tool to heal her own deeply critical self-image and self-worth, she created the Be Your Own Beloved workshops that help people get back in the visual story of their own lives and make peace with how they see themselves in photos. beyourownbeloved.com

Cynthia Kinnunen: Passionate music educator and advocate for lifelong learning. Performer: voice, ukulele, piano. Community music festival director/founder. Volunteer. Firm believer in sexual health education. Mixtape maker. Apron collector. Most important roles: mum of 3, wife, daughter, friend. Gratitude always. cynthiakmusic.com, Instagram: @cynthiakinnunen

Isla Grady: Believer, wife, mother, adoring grandmother of Caitlin, Emma and Ava, caregiver, passionate volunteer for victim support, advocate for ending hate, hunger, poverty and supporting the disenfranchised. Can be found in the church kitchen. Believes preparing food together, and eating together, is a place of trust where love and hope can meet and all are Family.

Josie Candito: Co-Owner of Master Mechanic High Park and their first female franchisee ever. She’s an animal rights warrior, women’s advocate, self-proclaimed ‘nerd’, hopeless romantic, loves to dance in the rain, loving wife, adores her beloved daytime family, a fairy godmother to Alex and Victoria, and proud Mommy of her fur-baby rescue, Charlie. One thing that does not define her, is her Fibromyalgia. She is Nicknamed ‘The Fixer’ and ‘Wonder Woman’, believes in spreading positivity and laughter through charity outreach, community involvement, and the uplifting messages she displays on her shop sign all year long. Keep up with all that she does and loves at mastermechanic.ca/locations/home.php?location=TorontoHighPark

Angela Betts: inspiring, caring, positive, creative, kind, passionate, deadhead, life giver and lover, wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunty, groovy entrepreneur and loyal friend, grateful. Young at heart. grasshopperimports.com

Vanessa Arscott: Plan V. Lover of live music. Coordinator of things. Auntie, sister, daughter, friend - planvproductions.com

Kat Leonard: Dare to live! If less is more, imagine how much more more is! KatLeonard.com

Caroline Cameron: Sportsnet television host, but deep down, still that little girl that grew up shooting hoops on the driveway. instagram.com/carolinecameron, twitter.com/SNCaroline

Mimi O'Bonsawin: dragonfly lady, Abenakis, Francophone, songstress, music maker - "I write songs and I share them", part time faerie, full time entrepreneur. 

Ellie Arscott: mom, artist, creator, nurturer, hopeful feminist, listener, connector, sister, daughter, friend - elliearscott.com