Randy McAuley is a partner at Goodmans. He practices in the areas of corporate law, mergers and acquisitions and securities law. While attending law school, Randy worked as a summer legal student at Kinross Gold Corporation. Prior to law school, Randy attended Western University where he was a member of the varsity Football and Track and Field teams, and attended training camp with the Toronto Argonauts. Randy has also enjoyed a career as a musician touring and performing with the Juno nominated vocal quartet, The McAuley Boys. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Randy was a registered representative/stockbroker, holding Series 7 and Series 63 licenses which enabled him to sell securities within the United States.

John J. Lennard is a partner in the Tax Group at Stikeman Elliott LLP. He works closely with leading private and public companies, as well as pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, private equity firms and Crown corporations on corporate reorganizations, mergers and acquisitions, investment fund formation, and corporate finance matters. He frequently consults on cross-border transactions, structuring non-resident investment into Canada and outbound investment by Canadian multinationals. John also advises high-net-worth individuals on a wide variety of taxation matters. John’s clients turn to him for his practical and business-oriented advice on all aspects of domestic and international tax planning. In addition to his tax planning practice, John represents taxpayers in tax audit matters and in disputes with the Canada Revenue Agency and provincial taxation authorities, and acts as counsel in tax litigation matters before the courts. A frequent speaker at tax conferences and contributor to various tax publications, John is particularly well-regarded for his thought leadership on the taxation of hedge funds and other private investment funds. John is an active community volunteer in Montreal and Toronto. He is a member of the Major Donors’ Cabinet of Centraide of Greater Montréal and is a Director of its endowment arm, the Centraide of Greater Montréal Foundation. John is also a member of the McGill University Faculty of Law Advisory Board. A longtime advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal profession, John is a member of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, the Canadian Bar Association’s Québec Steering Committee for the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee, and L'Association des juristes d'expression française de l'Ontario.

Esi Codjoe provides pragmatic and solutions focused legal advice to employers and employees, in both non-unionized and unionized private and public sector workplaces. That work includes assisting regulated professional organizations and regulated professionals with their unique employment, regulatory and governance needs. Esi conducts workplace investigations, reviews, and assessments for both large and small employers. Her experience as a former adjudicator, including as a Vice Chair at the Human Rights Tribunal is particularly relevant to her investigation, review, and assessment work. She has extensive experience questioning witnesses, assessing evidence, and crafting written findings. She is an experienced mediator and conducts mediations of workplace disputes. Her dispute resolution practice also includes coaching and facilitation work, such as coaching employees to resolve workplace conflicts. Esi has expertise in teaching and training including in the areas of equity diversity and inclusion (“EDI”) and respect in the workplace. She provides tailored training to address each client’s unique needs. Esi taught employment law and labour relations at George Brown College and Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She frequently assists School Boards and Universities. In 2018 Esi was named as one of Canadian Lawyer Magazine’s Top 25 lawyers, and in 2019 Lexpert named her as a Change Agent in Law. The Ontario Bar Association gave her the 2020 Joel Kuchar award for Professionalism and Civility.

Wura Dasylva is a partner in the Regina office of Miller Thomson LLP, a national business law firm with over 500 lawyers across 5 provinces. Her practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, corporate reorganizations, corporate governance, banking and finance. Wura’s experience spans several industries including banking, real estate, agribusiness, automotive, retail, and hospitality. Wura obtained her bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria and a master’s degree in law from the University of Manitoba. Wura was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2014 and the Saskatchewan Bar in 2018. Prior to being called to the Saskatchewan Bar, Wura practiced at a leading national law firm in Nigeria. Wura is an avid volunteer through mentorships, community engagements and volunteer Board memberships. Currently, Wura serves as the Chair of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce. Wura loves to read and travel during her spare time.

Dr. Gideon Christian is an Assistant Professor of AI and Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Calgary. Prior to joining the University of Calgary, he was technology lawyer with the federal Department of Justice where he deployed technology in high profile litigation involving the Government of Canada. His research interests are in artificial intelligence and law, legal impacts of new and emerging technologies among other areas. Dr. Christian’s research seeks to identify elements of racial bias in laws, policies and in emerging technologies. His current research seeks to develop the concept of algorithmic racism which is defined as race-based bias arising from the use of AI-powered tools in the analysis of data in decision making resulting in unfair outcomes to individuals from a particular segment of the society characterised by race. Dr. Christian has appeared before the House of Commons Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) as an expert in the use of AI in immigration decisions. He is the Ontario Bar Association 2024 Chief Justice of Ontario Fellow in Research. His fellowship aimed to develop ethical guidelines for the use of Generative AI in the legal profession. He was named by the Calgary Herald as one of the top 20 Compelling Calgarians to watch in 2024.

Jake Okechukwu Effoduh is a tenure-track Assistant Professor at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law of the Toronto Metropolitan University. He teaches a range of technology law courses, including Critical Approaches to Data, Algorithms, and Science in the Law; Big Tech and Social Justice; and Technology Law and Society. With expertise at the intersections of international law, access to justice, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal processes, Effoduh has informed the regulatory frameworks and policy formulation on AI at the United Nations; the African Union; and for several countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Nigeria.

Olga is an associate in the litigation group at McCarthy Tétrault’s Montréal office. Her practice focuses on commercial litigation, including class actions, banking law, insolvency, and restructuring. Olga holds a Bachelor of Civil Law, a specialized Bachelor's degree in International Development and Globalization from the University of Ottawa, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Sherbrooke. Before joining the litigation group, Olga gained experience in digital law. She had the opportunity to work as a research assistant for several professors on issues related to privacy as well as international trade and foreign investments. Olga is also the co-founder of the Black Law Students' Association at the University of Ottawa and has participated in various debates and moot court competitions, including the United Nations Simulation in New York. Her academic success and involvement have earned her several awards and scholarships.

Sam is a litigation and dispute resolution lawyer in Gowling WLG's Vancouver office. He practices in the areas of commercial litigation and employment law. Working across multiple sectors, Sam helps his clients navigate a range of contentious matters – from intricate contract and negligence claims to white-collar fraud investigations to high-stakes banking litigation files. Over the course of his career, Sam has appeared before all levels of court in British Columbia, as well as before administrative tribunals in British Columbia and Alberta. Prior to joining Gowling WLG, Sam served as a judicial law clerk for the Honourable Justice Robert L. Barnes of the Federal Court of Canada. Sam complements his practice by working as an adjunct professor at Capilano University's School of Legal Studies where he teaches legal advocacy. He also serves on Capilano University's Board of Governors and on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers.

Demi is a lawyer with diverse legal experience and a passion for advocacy. She attended the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Law and was the Valedictorian of her undergraduate class at Mount Royal University . She currently works in family law at Oakley Family Law, and has appeared before the Court of Queen's Bench of Alberta, the Alberta Court of Justice, and attended numerous mediations and arbitrations.

Efua is an associate within the Dispute Resolution and Advocacy and Health practice groups at Lerners. She previously worked at a top tier litigation boutique in Toronto where she gained experience assisting individuals, private businesses and institutional clients with a broad range of civil litigation matters including commercial disputes, professional regulatory matters and public law. Efua regularly provides both litigation and policy support to universities and public boards of education and has recently completed her certification as workplace investigator. Prior to law school Efua obtained a Master of Public Health degree with a focus in Global Health from Boston University. After completing her degree, she spent two years working with a non-profit organization in rural Haiti.

E: Jyoti has an undergraduate degree in sociology and criminology, an M.A. in organizational sociology that focused on corporate social responsibility, and a Ph.D. in urban sociology that explored urban-rural struggles in hybrid areas like Rocky View County. K: Shortly after completing her M.A., Jyoti’s research skills and passion for creating change evolved into an entrepreneurial drive when she started her own consulting practice, ‘Tick’. Here, she worked with energy and city-building sectors to help business models grow alongside a rapidly evolving regulatory and economic environment by getting to the root of issues. Jyoti served on the boards of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Alberta, Design Talks Institute and Parent Support Association. E: Her experience as an integral advisor on the National Executive Forum on Public Property and the Calgary Economic Development Real Estate Advisory Committee was sought out by the University of Calgary as they asked her to lead theWestman Centre for Real Estate Studies at the Haskayne School of Business in 2014. Her knowledge in the Real Estate sector and what it means to contribute to the growth of a prosperous city proved to be essential as she examined the decline in Calgary’s commercial property value and substantial downtown vacancy. K: Before running for City Council, Jyoti worked with numerous community organizations, placing emphasis on strategic planning. She supported the expansion of Vivo for Healthier Generations recreation centre, while also participating on the City of Calgary’s Planning Commission, HealthYYC and the Community Representation Task Force. E: In 2017, Jyoti was elected to Calgary City Council where she served for four years. Her time on council, albeit brief, proved to be effective as she began working on various projects that have now been accomplished during her time as Mayor. Her commitment and advocacy for issues on budget and finance, for example, worked to minimize the property tax gap between non-residential and residential properties without increasing overall taxes. K: Elected again in October 2021, Jyoti began her term as Mayor helping Calgarians recover from the damages of COVID-19, both through reinstating a sense of community and ability to identify key priorities, such as public safety and economic development, to help the city move forward. Her optimism has encouraged Calgarians to seize opportunity and make bold decisions so our city can reach its full potential.

K: Jo-Anne Henry is the daughter of Violent King Henry and Godfrey Henry, who were both hard-working attorneys and spectacular parents. E: Ms. Henry is currently the Director of LEAD Strategic Impact at the National League of Cities in Washington, D.C.. Previously she has been in leadership positions in: District of Columbia Public Schools; DC’s Child Welfare system; the state of Georgia’s Child Welfare system; Director of a community-based child abuse prevention strategy called “Community Partnerships for Protecting Children”; and one of the 1 st lawyers at an environmental justice pro bono law organization called “Alternatives for Community & Environment” (ACE). K: Ms. Henry received her J.D. degree from University of California, Berkeley’s School of Law; and her M.A.from Georgetown University’s School of Business. E: She currently resides in Washington DC with her teacher husband and their teen daughter, who wants to be a biomedical engineer when she gets older. K: Ms. Henry is thrilled with the ways her mother Violet has been and continues to be honored; how her legacy still inspires; and how Violet’s historic trailblazing has been recognized.

K: Part of the 2024 100 Accomplished Black Canadians (ABC), Rosemarie is a strategic lawyer and privacy professional with over 20 years of Canadian and US legal experience in judicial clerkship, litigation, regulatory risk and compliance and corporate governance She was the founder of the Canada Life Black and People Colour Employee Resource Group. E: While maintaining a busy litigation practice, she ran several marathons, competed thrice as a body builder, authored an article titled “You cannot out-exercise a bad diet” in the CABL Newsletter, and earned her certification as a Personal Trainer and Nutrition specialist from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. K: She always brings her authentic self as a Black leader and meeting her audience exactly where they are providing a safe space for open communication. E: She was one of the first cohorts to graduate from the Black North Academy C-Suite and Board Preparedness program through the Black North Initiative, and the Board Diversity Network – Ted Rogers School of Management, Executive Board Readiness Program, both initiatives are aimed at addressing the shortage of Black professional talent on Boards of Directors.

E: Isabelle Cadotte, LL.B, B.C.L, TEP, is the Regional Director for The Bank of Nova Scotia Trust Company in Western Canada and leads its Indigenous Trusts practice on a national scale. She joined Scotiabank in 2019 after serving as in-house legal counsel with various federal government departments in Ottawa and Calgary, and carrying on a private practice with a regional law firm in Alberta. K: Isabelle combines 16 years of wide-ranging experience pertaining to Aboriginal rights, title and claims in the context of administrative and regulatory law, large scale litigation, estate and trust law and risk management, to drive strategic outcomes for her team of 75 estate & trust professionals. E:A graduate of the McGill University Faculty of Law, Isabelle holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Civil Laws, and is a licensed lawyer since 2012. She also earned the Trust and Estate Practitioners (TEP) designation issued by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, a standard-setting industry association that operates internationally. K: Isabelle believes in the power of sharing knowledge, which is why she dedicates time outside work to mentoring young lawyers and law students on alternative career pathing in the legal field. She also serves in executive and advisory roles with non-profit organizations such as the French-speaking lawyers association in Alberta. E: Outside work, Isabelle enjoys living and playing in smalltown Alberta with her husband and son. When she’s not watching them fly through the air on their BMX bikes, she can be found swimming, running or reading.

Stephen is an associate in McMillan LLP's business law group and specializes in M&A and Private Equity deals.

Dakota Bundy (she/her/hers) is an associate in the Business Law Group at Cassels. Dakota’s practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, private equity investments, corporate reorganizations, general corporate and commercial law, and advising clients with regulatory issues in various industries. Prior to joining Cassels as an associate, Dakota was both a summer and articling student with the firm. Dakota completed her JD at the Queen’s University Faculty of Law. At Queen’s, she was an active member of the law school community as the Equity Co-Chair of Queen’s Women & Law, elected Vice-President of the 3L Council, and a Student Representative of the Moot Court Program. Dakota was also an oralist in the national Gale Cup Moot, in which she and her moot partner argued in front of three Supreme Court Justices and won second place overall. Upon graduating, she was awarded the Dean’s Key Award for being one of two graduating students who best embodied the values of Queen’s Law.

Andrea Meade works as a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Registered Physiotherapist, and Certified Coach. She has degrees in Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, and Counselling Psychology from the University of Victoria and the University of Toronto. Her practice journey as a clinician spans over 22 years in several interconnected areas, including neurological rehabilitation, pelvic health, and community care in Canada & the Caribbean. As a dual-trained therapist, Andrea has a special interest in burnout care and prevention for Regulated Health Professionals. Her company, Practice Gap, provides individual psychotherapy, as well as group education designed to build self-care skills and capacity within the helping professions. Andrea also works with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario as a Practice Assessor. Andrea delivers care from a whole-person perspective, using both mind and body-based therapeutic approaches. Clients and colleagues frequently describe her as calm, insightful and 'easy to talk to'.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Aïda is dedicated to helping individuals navigate complex emotional and mental health challenges with a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and client-centered approach. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and a M.Ed in Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto. Her practice is grounded in anti-oppressive, socially just, and trauma-informed frameworks. As a woman of colour from an immigrant family, Aïda is keenly aware that our well-being may have important and complex relationships to the social, political, and economic conditions and contexts that we grow up and exist in, and she believes it is important to acknowledge and make space for this in therapy.

Antoine L. Collins has been practicing law in the United States and Canada for over two decades. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Chicago School of Law, he began his legal career as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Baltimore, where his prosecutorial work encompassed a wide range of cases, from minor theft to serious offenses such as felony child abuse and domestic violence. After immigrating to Canada in 2009 and being called to the Ontario Bar in 2011, Antoine transitioned to various legal fields, including real estate, immigration, and refugee law, while also providing pro bono support to low-income Ontarians. Currently, he serves as a Coordinating Member with the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, where he makes well-reasoned, efficient, and fair decisions on refugee protection claims and spearheads innovative initiatives that enhances decision-making quality and efficiency. Antoine is actively involved in the Ontario legal community. He has held numerous leadership roles with the Ontario Bar Association (OBA) and is an executive of the County of Carleton Law Association (CCLA). As President of the National Capital Region’s chapter of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL), Antoine is dedicated to mentorship, diversity, equity, and inclusion, believing that a diverse legal profession is essential for access to justice.

Meaza Damte is a Litigation Associate, building a general litigation practice with a focus on infrastructure disputes, public law, and class actions. Meaza received a Juris Doctor from the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, graduating as the Valedictorian of the Class of 2023. In law school, Meaza was a vocal advocate for her fellow students. She was the President of the Students’ Law Society, the recipient of the University of Toronto Leadership Award as well as the John Willis & Gina Caldarelli Memorial Prize for School Spirit. Prior to law school, Meaza obtained an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Minor in Law and Society (with Distinction) from the University of Calgary. Her thesis, Dependence over Interdependence: the Belt and Road Initiatives’ Impact on Development in Ethiopia, focused on international relations and political economy. Meaza was called to the Ontario bar in 2024.

Husoni is an Articling Student at McCarthy Tétrault. Before McCarthys, he served as Manager of Anti-Racism Initiatives for the New Brunswick Multicultural Council. During his undergraduate years, he was the founder of the St. Thomas University (STU) Black Students' Association and made history as the first Black President of STU's Student Union. He received the top graduating student award for his outstanding contributions to the University community. During law school, Husoni was the main organizer of the 32nd BLSA Canada National Conference. He was later elected as the 33rd National President of BLSA Canada, where he provided strategic direction and support to the organization. He also served on the board of directors of Fredericton PRIDE and Start Proud, two organizations committed to advancing the rights of queer people. In his final year of law school, Husoni received the Dean’s Gold Key and the Youth Leadership Award from the Black North Initiative for his leadership and community contributions

Raphael Tachie is a partner in the Trusts, Estates and Wealth Preservation group based in Vancouver office, with responsibilities extending across both Toronto and Vancouver. Raphael is also a member of the Dentons Family Office and High Net Worth sector group, which provides cross-practice services to family offices and high-net-worth individuals. Raphael leverages his significant in-house experience with financial institutions and in wealth management to provide strategic legal counsel to high-net-worth clients and financial institutions, covering all aspects of estates and trusts law. Raphael advises high-net-worth individuals, families, entrepreneurs and business owners on estate and trust planning, business succession planning, incapacity matters, and planned charitable giving, ensuring tax efficiency and alignment with their personal values and objectives. Additionally, he advises executors, trustees, and other fiduciaries on every facet of estate and trust administration, covering probate, fiduciary duties, obligations, liability concerns and post-mortem planning. He also collaborates closely with financial institutions and their advisors to develop, implement and uphold top-tier practices and processes in estates and trusts, life and health insurance, registered and non-registered investments, and high-net-worth advisory services, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Raphael has extensive experience in providing strategic guidance to insurance, investment, and trust companies regarding the implications of laws and regulations concerning elderly and vulnerable clients, incapacity, estates, trusts and beneficiary designations on their products, services and market practices. Furthermore, Raphael advises trust companies in their fiduciary capacities as trustees, executors, attorneys, agents and custodians on estate and trust administration and regulatory issues, including new product development. Raphael is a regular speaker for professional and industry-related groups, and has authored a number of articles and publications on estate planning, trusts and administration. Beyond his practice, Raphael is very active in the legal community and engaged in advocating for more equal, diverse and inclusive professional spaces. Notably, he is the immediate past president of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and has been a member of several committees of the Canadian Bar Association and the Canadian Corporate Counsel Association.

Bethany McKoy (she/her/hers) is the Director of Professional Resources at Cassels – Toronto Associate Programs. In this role, Bethany is involved in the recruitment, training, and ongoing professional development of associates in the firm’s Toronto office. Bethany is passionate about the mentorship and development of young lawyers, which is reflected in her professional and personal pursuits. Prior to joining Cassels, Bethany managed the student program at a leading litigation law firm, where she supported the firm’s student recruitment, professional development programming and diversity and inclusion initiatives. Before that, Bethany practiced as a litigator for several years, beginning her career at an international full-service law firm followed by several years at a small litigation boutique. As a litigator, Bethany developed a diverse practice of complex corporate, commercial, health law and general civil litigation matters. Bethany is an active member of the legal community, focusing her efforts on programs advancing young lawyers from diverse backgrounds. Bethany is currently the Vice President of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL) (previously acting as Director of Mentorship), and she developed the inaugural mentorship program for the Group of Racialized Women Litigators (GROWL). Bethany also acts as a mentor for the Osgoode First Generation Network and Black Law Students Association. Bethany is actively involved in the National Association of Legal Professionals, currently sitting as Co-Chair of the Diversity Working Group and Member of the CDLE Working Group.

Mark McAuley is a partner in the Business Law group in Lerners London office. Acting for public and private companies in corporate and commercial transactions, he provides counsel on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance transactions, commercial real estate transactions, and general corporate matters. In addition to his work with large, and complex organizations, Mark advises clients on growth-oriented opportunities. With a passion for entrepreneurship, technology, and the arts and entertainment sector, he provides practical advice to emerging, growing, and well-established businesses. Mark completed his JD at Western University where he was valedictorian of his graduating class. During his time at Western, he engaged with the student community as an executive of the Student Legal Society and as president of the Western Chapter of the Black Law Students Association. Prior to law school, Mark enjoyed a career as a musician, recording, touring, and performing with the Juno-nominated McAuley Boys and as a solo act under the name Mac Graham.

As Counsel, Diversity and Inclusion at Blakes, Kyle is responsible for collaborating with key stakeholders to promote the Firm's internal diversity and inclusion strategy and initiatives. In this role, he also leads the Firm's diversity and inclusion outreach initiatives that are designed to attract students from diverse backgrounds to the practice of business law. As a result of his experience and impact, he is often called upon by Blakes clients to offer insights and feedback on their efforts to build inclusive workplaces. Outside of work, Kyle is an active member of the legal community. He is the President of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL). Additionally, Kyle sits on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Steering Committee for the National Association of Law Placement (NALP). He is also the DEI Liaison for NALP's Canadian Section and has previously been a member of the Law Society of Ontario’s Equity Advisory Group.

Theresa Donkor is a senior associate at Rudnicki & Company. She practices criminal defence, with a focus on appeals from conviction and sentence at the Court of Appeal for Ontario. She also represents complainants in sexual offence cases, including assisting as counsel for complainants in applications for the production or admission of private records or evidence of prior sexual history. Racial justice is at the heart of Theresa’s practice. She is committed to fighting systemic racism in our criminal legal system and fearlessly advancing race-based arguments in court. Outside of her practice, Theresa is the Director of Advocacy for the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, a board member of Eva’s Initiative for Homeless Youth, and a member of the Young Advocates’ Standing Committee of The Advocates Society. She also regularly speaks to the media and at conferences on topics of racial justice, social justice, and criminal law.

Peace Eze is the principal lawyer at Peace Legal with over fourteen years’ experience in legal practice. She bagged her Bachelor of Laws degree from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria and won the Exxon Mobil Scholarship during the years 1997-2002. Subsequently, she was called to the Nigerian and the Alberta Bar, having successfully cleared all qualifying examinations and other certification requirements. Peace founded Peace Legal, having acquired unparalleled academic and practical legal experience evidenced in her diligent and responsive representation of her clients. With keen interest in litigation and legal advisory, she has appeared before multi-levels of court both in Canada and Nigeria and offered exemplary legal advice and representation in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Law, Immigration and Refugee Law, Personal Injury Law, Real Estate Law, Employment Law, Child Welfare, Fertility Law, Wills & Estates Law, Intellectual Property Law, Energy Law, Aboriginal Law, Banking & Finance Law, and General Legal Advisory.

Besides her outstanding leadership skills, Peace is smart, courteous, intelligent, and responsible, with great attention to detail and possesses high client management and repainting skills. She has written on contemporary legal issues and continues to contribute to knowledge on matters relating to area of practice. She is the chief executive officer of LLBiz Academy where she teaches and mentors young lawyers and solo practitioners in the business of law. While not working, Peace loves to sing and enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Lindsey Mahoney is a 2012 graduate of the Howard University School of Law and a member of the New York and Ontario bars. Lindsey has more than ten years of experience in capital markets, advising regulators, broker dealers, investment advisers and asset managers with respect to securities regulatory matters, and underwriters and issuers in capital market transactions. Lindsey currently oversees the investment regulatory program at HOOPP, the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan. Previously, Lindsey worked in New York for a large US law firm in their Corporate Securities and Finance group and in Toronto at a Seven Sisters law firm in their Securities Regulation and Investment Product Group. Lindsey has also worked at various Canadian and US securities regulators.

Raphael (He/Him/His) is a partner in Dentons’ Litigation and Dispute Resolution group. He has deep experience and expertise in investigations and capital markets regulatory proceedings. Raphael also specializes in complex corporate/commercial matters with a focus on securities, banking, and shareholder disputes. Prior to joining Dentons, Raphael spent several years practicing at another leading Canadian law firm, and more recently has gained experience as a prosecutor in the Ontario Securities Commission's Enforcement Branch, and as Senior Litigation Counsel for a top tier bank. Raphael is committed to improving diversity and inclusion within the legal profession and the broader community. He leads the Dentons Canada Black Professionals Network. He is also an active member of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers’ Advocacy Committee.

Kenny is the Co-Founder of the Internationally Trained Lawyers (ITL) Network and Legal Counsel at ISC. Kenny brings a wealth of expertise in guiding businesses through complex legal landscapes. His proficiency spans corporate, M&A transactions, corporate governance, and securities law, where he has consistently provided strategic and sound legal counsel. Kenny is called to the Bar in Nigeria and in Alberta.

Dr. Chika B. Onwuekwe, KC, ICD.D is the Vice President, Legal, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Trican Well Service Ltd., a foremost oil and gas service company. He sits on the Boards of ENMAX Corporation and the Canadian Public Accountability Board (CPAB). He was previously the first General Counsel at PTW Energy Services Ltd. Dr. Onwuekwe articled and practiced at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada (formerly Macleod Dixon LLP), and subsequently at MLT Aikins LLP. He was formerly an Assistant Professor of Law and Society at the University of Calgary, an Adjunct Professor of Business Law at LBS Pan African University, Lagos, Nigeria, Experienced Senior and Assistant Manager at KPMG International (Tax, Legal & Business Regulatory Division) Lagos office and a consultant to both Justice Canada and Health Canada. Dr. Onwuekwe is a registered Canadian Trademark Agent, a member of the Canadian Bar Association, the Law Society of Alberta and the Association of General Counsel of Alberta. He is the Canada-wide Chair of the BlackNorth Initiative Mentorship and Sponsorship Committee, and the Chair of the BlackNorth Initiative Alberta Chapter. Dr. Onwuekwe holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. He is a recipient of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal of Honour for his outstanding professional and community services to Canadians.

Bukola is a dual-qualified lawyer licensed to practice in Nigeria (2017) and Alberta (2023). She holds two master’s degrees: one in Natural Resources, Energy, and Environmental Law from the University of Calgary, and another in Common Law from the University of British Columbia. Specializing in corporate and commercial law, Bukola has gained experience in both private practice and in-house counsel roles. Currently, Bukola serves as Legal Counsel at MNP, where she provides legal guidance on a variety of corporate matters. Outside of her professional life, Bukola enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new restaurants, and traveling.

Vivian is Legal Counsel at BHP Canada Inc. Her practice areas and responsibilities include privacy law, commercial contracts, occupational health and safety, employment law, and environmental law. Prior to moving in-house, Vivian was an Associate in the Toronto office of a national Canadian law firm where she maintained a general litigation practice which included commercial litigation and medical malpractice. She completed her Juris Doctorate (JD) degrees (cum laude) through the Canadian & American Dual JD Program jointly at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 2017 and was called to the Ontario bar and the New York bar in 2018, and the Saskatchewan bar in 2024. Vivian recently earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University (2024). She also holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree from McMaster University in Earth and Environmental Science (concentration in aqueous environmental biochemistry), and a minor in Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Her special interests are privacy and data governance, legal and operational risk management, and improving legal operations. When she's not practicing law, Vivian can be found running, working out, baking, reading, or trying to catch up on a TV show.

Michael Akins maintains a business law practice that focuses primarily on commercial real estate and financial services, and other corporate and commercial matters. Broadly speaking, his practice deals with purchase and sale transactions, secured and debt financing transactions, corporate reorganizations and private financings. He acts for vendors and purchasers, landlords and tenants, financial institutions, and corporate and individual borrowers and lenders. Outside of practice, he is usually partaking in recreational sports and activities. He also enjoys travelling, reading and going to concerts.

Josh, a JD/MBA graduate from the University of Toronto Faculty of Law with a passion for legal innovation. Josh is the Black Future Lawyers Program co-founder and he co-founded Stratera, a legal tech company that uses AI to streamline the capital markets due diligence process.

Dr. Charles Osuji (Hon. D.) is a highly decorated lawyer and CEO of Osuji & Smith Lawyers, Calgary. Recognized among Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40 and Canada’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers, he has received over 110 awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. His exceptional contributions earned him an honorary Doctor of Laws from Mount Royal University, making him one of its youngest recipients. Born in Nigeria, Dr. Osuji graduated at the top of his class and was called to the Nigerian Bar. In 2014, he joined Osuji & Smith as an articling student and was called to the Alberta Bar. Remarkably, within two years, he became a partner and, in 2017, the sole owner of the firm. Under his leadership, Osuji & Smith has grown from six staff members to over 45, becoming Canada’s largest Black-owned law firm and expanding its presence to Ottawa, Yukon, and Dubai. Dr. Osuji’s practice spans employment law, family law, business law, real estate, and more. Known for his responsive communication and practical legal advice, he is deeply committed to achieving swift, cost-effective resolutions for his clients. His dedication extends to mentoring his team, fostering a culture of excellence within the firm. A recipient of the LEXPERT Rising Star and recognized as one of Canada’s 100 Most Influential Black Canadians, Dr. Osuji continues to make significant contributions to Canada’s legal and social landscape. Clients and colleagues alike praise his clarity, honesty, and heartfelt approach to legal advocacy.

Keshia Holloman-Dawson is a fourth generation Calgarian, Legal Counsel in the corporate energy sector, award-winning change-maker, and new mother. She graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Law & Society, a Juris Doctor from the Faculty of Law, and a Master of a Public Policy from the School of Public Policy. During her time in law school, Keshia was President of BLSA UCalgary – a role she leveraged to generate scholarships, internships, and mentorship and training opportunities. Most notably Keshia worked with Faculty leadership to create and implement the Black Student Admissions Process, which saw a 300% increase in Black student representation in it's first year. Keshia works as in-house counsel for an energy company (primarily in the sustainability, Indigenous relations, IT, and cybersecurity groups), and serves on the boards and committees of multiple organizations focused on inclusion, advocacy, and community development.

Danielle Rawlinson is Senior Associate at BLG in the Labour and Employment Group and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2020. She completed her law degree at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law and was the 2017/2018 BLSA Canada National Conference Chair and the 2018/2019 BLSA National President. Danielle assists her employer clients navigate all employment law matters. She has represented clients at various levels of provincial courts, boards, and both federal and provincial Human Rights Tribunals. Before working at BLG, Danielle was in house counsel at a national trucking and logistics company and a boutique plaintiff side employment law firm. Danielle is a zealous advocate keeping her clients’ interests centred throughout the process and she approaches her work with a listening ear, a keen eye, and is result oriented. Danielle is also a passionate mentor; mentoring pre-law, law school and junior lawyers throughout their journeys.

Chi Iliya-Ndule is a Senior Associate at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP in Calgary, where she advises clients on complex corporate and commercial transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, corporate reorganizations and project developments. Chi serves as Chair of the CBA's National Environmental, Energy and Resources Law Section and contributes to her community through board roles with the Alberta University of the Arts and Telus Convention Centre. She is also a co-founder and President of the Calgary Black Chambers, a non-profit organization that supports the Black community through scholarship, mentorship, advocacy and community building. Chi has been recognized as a Lexpert Rising Star: Leading Lawyer Under 40 (2024), one of Calgary Herald's 20 Compelling Calgarians (2024), one of CRIEC’s Formidable Immigrant Women (2023) and awarded the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022). Chi holds an LLM from the University of Calgary and an LLB from Nigeria.

Nicole is a second-year associate at Torys LLP. Her practice focuses on corporate and securities law, with an emphasis on capital markets transactions, M&A and corporate governance matters. Nicole graduated from McGill University with a degree in Psychology in 2019 and earned her JD at the University of Ottawa.

Antoine L. Collins has been practicing law in the United States and Canada for over two decades. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Chicago School of Law, he began his legal career as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Baltimore, where his prosecutorial work encompassed a wide range of cases, from minor theft to serious offenses such as felony child abuse and domestic violence. After immigrating to Canada in 2009 and being called to the Ontario Bar in 2011, Antoine transitioned to various legal fields, including real estate, immigration, and refugee law, while also providing pro bono support to low-income Ontarians. Currently, he serves as a Coordinating Member with the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, where he makes well-reasoned, efficient, and fair decisions on refugee protection claims and spearheads innovative initiatives that enhances decision-making quality and efficiency. Antoine is actively involved in the Ontario legal community. He has held numerous leadership roles with the Ontario Bar Association (OBA) and is an executive of the County of Carleton Law Association (CCLA). As President of the National Capital Region’s chapter of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL), Antoine is dedicated to mentorship, diversity, equity, and inclusion, believing that a diverse legal profession is essential for access to justice.

Natalia Peart is a staff lawyer for Legal Aid Ontario in the Family Law Service Centre. She previously practiced family and wills and estates law and earned her JD at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law. She also has a Master of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University.

Tiana Knight is a labour lawyer with one of Canada’s largest unions. Her practice focuses on all aspects of labour law at both the federal and provincial levels. Much of her practice encompasses the areas of human rights, progressive discipline and terminations, and she enjoys representing and advocating for employees in both the public and private sectors with their workplace issues. Her fulfilling and dynamic practice has led her to appear before experienced adjudicators of the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations and Employment Board and before private arbitrators in complex termination and human rights cases. Prior to practicing labour law in-house, Tiana worked in private practice focusing on employment law and workplace investigations. During her time at Windsor Law, Tiana was Valedictorian of her law school graduating class and served as the National President of BLSA Canada. Tiana is currently Chair of the Young Lawyers Division/Social of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, and a member of the Osgoode Society’s Oral History Committee, an organization focused on preserving the legal history of Ontario’s most esteemed legal professionals. Tiana is passionate about mentorship, professional development and networking opportunities for law students and young lawyers, and is a firm believer that to whom much is given, much is expected.

Jevaughn is a highly skilled corporate lawyer with a strong business acumen and deep understanding of securities and corporate law. His practice focuses on corporate finance, capital markets, and mergers & acquisitions, where he provides strategic counsel to clients navigating complex transactions. Jevaughn earned his Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from the University of Technology, Jamaica, a Master of Business Administration from the Bill Munday School of Business in Austin Texas, and a Master of Laws from the Osgoode Hall Law School. His multidisciplinary background enables him to deliver sophisticated legal solutions tailored to the dynamic needs of businesses and investors.

Storme Mckop graduated from the University of Calgary Faculty of Law in 2019, where she was the founding president of the current BLSA Calgary chapter. Storme also served as national communications director for the BLSA Canada in 2018/2019 and was a founding member and Vice President of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers Alberta Chapter. Storme articled and worked as a corporate associate for a national law firm in Calgary before moving to New York, where she currently practices corporate law at Lowenstein Sandler LLP. In her practice, Storme advises emerging and high-growth companies on equity financings, mergers and acquisitions, fund formations, corporate governance, and other general corporate matters. Storme continues to be actively involved with diversity initiatives at the University of Calgary as a BLSA mentor and as a member of the University of Calgary law admissions committee where she assists with the Black student application process.

Nashara is a graduate of the Dual JD program at the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy, and is licensed in both Ontario and Michigan. She is a Senior Associate at Bodman PLC, a major Detroit firm, where she practices both commercial and probate litigation. Nashara is both a former BLSA Canada National President and National Conference Chair, and continues her engagement with BLSA Canada as a member of its Alumni Advisory Council.

Ndija Anderson (she/her), BCL, LLB, is the Manager of the Career Development & Professional Placement Office at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, where she has worked since 2020 in roles related to recruitment, admissions, student support, and career advising. A McGill Law graduate, during her legal studies, Ndija was an English editor of the McGill Law Journal, a judicial intern at the Superior Court of Québec, and a local and national executive member of BLSA. Following law school, she worked as an immigration litigator with the DOJ, a Policy & Research Lawyer at a legal clinic, an IRB Member, and also provided oversight to e-Discovery teams. Ndija is deeply committed to combatting anti-Black racism through education, frequently leading school assemblies and EDI workshops. Outside of her professional work, she reports to her real boss, her son, Ethan, and engages in hobbies like singing, dancing, traveling, and reading.

Celine Mathews-Negash is an Advisor at Wealthsimple, a Chartered Investment Manager and Certified Financial Planner. She frequently volunteers with Wealthsimple Foundation, leading workshops and hosting 1:1 sessions to help equity deserving groups achieve their financial goals. She currently lives in Toronto with her cat Miso.

Zhané Stimpson is a Toronto-based content creator, community organizer, advocate for financial literacy and inclusivity and Senior Associate of Youth Engagement at Wealthsimple Foundation. As a creator, Zhané blends humor, education, and real-life experiences to make complex financial topics accessible. Through projects like the Wealthsimple Foundation Money Masterclass, they’ve helped thousands of teens and young adults develop practical financial skills. Drawing from their own journey, they aim to inspire others to take control of their finances and envision a future of financial freedom. Passionate about empowering marginalized communities, Zhané is dedicated to creating a world where everyone has the tools to thrive financially.