Past Events

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Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee, a highly regarded Clinical Psychologist in Toronto, is the visionary behind the Silm Centre for Mental Health. Her award-winning practice, rooted in social justice, prioritizes accessible mental health services. With over 20 clinicians, the center supports pro bono work and community partnerships.

As the co-founder of Feelings Unpacked, a psychoeducational mental health subscription service, Dr. Taslim empowers users to understand their emotions.

Renowned as a speaker, she addresses well-being topics like radical self-care, burnout, and diversity. A MedCircle Certified Educator, she has been featured in interviews with major media outlets.

Alongside her clinical work, Dr. Taslim is an Adjunct Faculty at Lakehead University and a Faculty Member at Adler Graduate Professional School. Her extensive research, holding a Ph.D. and Masters in Clinical Psychology, focuses on body image, eating disorders, and community-based research with marginalized populations. She also holds a Masters in International Development Studies from Dalhousie University.

In her academic journey, Dr. Taslim earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts at Brescia University College at Western University.

Charmaine Williams was elected as MPP for Brampton Centre and appointed as Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity in June 2022, becoming the first-ever Black PC cabinet minister.

In her role, Charmaine has been dedicated to enhancing women's participation in the workforce, focusing on sectors with underrepresentation such as entrepreneurship, skilled trades, and STEM, aiming to bolster economic security and independence.

Before entering provincial politics, Charmaine excelled in municipal politics, winning her first election in 2018 and serving as Brampton City Councillor for Wards 7 & 8.

Her advocacy and courage stem from a rich background. With a 19-year career as a certified multisystemic therapist, behavioural consultant, and counselor, Charmaine collaborated with organizations like the Associated Youth Services of Peel, Peel Children’s Centre, and Reach Out Centre for Kids in Halton Region, shaping her beliefs and values.

Anu Raina has rapidly become a notable figure in Toronto's Art and Fashion scene. A graduate of the University of the Arts London - London College of Fashion, England, she further honed her skills in the Textile program at Sheridan College, Oakville.

In 2010, Raina earned the Governor's medal and various awards upon graduating from Sheridan College. The same year, she became an Artist-in-residence at Toronto's Harbourfront Centre and showcased her work at the Toronto Pearson International Airport. An impressive debut followed at Toronto Fashion Week in October 2010.

Recognized for outstanding achievement, Raina received a nomination for the 2012 Ontario Premier's Award. She has since collaborated with prestigious organizations like eBay Canada, The Law Society of Upper Canada, Keilhauer, and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Her Skyline print, featured in New York and London, was selected by the Textile Museum of Canada.

Raina's influence has been noted in national newspapers, including The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, National Post, and various fashion publications. Nominated for the YWCA Hamilton Woman of Distinction - Art, Culture, and Design Award in February 2022, Anu Raina currently resides in Oakville, Ontario, with her husband and two children.