The Connections and Conversations group welcomes ALL faculty & staff at UTM, regardless of whether or not they have attended previous meetings. Join us!

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What is Connections & Conversations?

Connections and Conversations University of Toronto Mississauga Chapter (“Connections and Conversation UTM”) is an affinity group for self-identified Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour (BIPOC) staff to provide a community of support and opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
 

The objectives of the Connections and Conversations affinity group are:

• To Build Community: Providing moral support to BIPOC members of the UTM community in their pursuit of a satisfying career experience in an inclusive environment;

• To Support Professional Development: Offering networking and mentoring opportunities and advice to members to contribute their unique experiences and skills to the growth and development of UTM;

• To Develop Innovative Strategies and Plans: Increasing awareness of systemic barriers and experiences encountered by self-identified BIPOC members and co- creating equitable and inclusive solutions among the UTM community; and

• Advocating for Effective Change: Expanding and improving the institutional commitment of the University of Toronto and the University of Toronto Mississauga campus’ principles of equity, diversity and inclusion by championing and supporting the advancement of strategic antiracism initiatives and to continue to work towards the elimination of systemic racial discrimination with stakeholders within and outside of UTM

Role of the Local UTM Chapter

Executive Committee

2020-21 Executive Committee members

Event Leads

• Rebeca Mahadeo
  Student Development Coordinator, Intercultural Programs, International Education Centre
• Tomike Babajide
  Community Engagement Coordinator, Access & Outreach

Mentoring Leads

• Martin Kengo
  Community Engagement Coordinator, Access and Outreach, Centre for Student Engagement
• Ramya Uthayakumar
  Professional Development & Career Strategist, Department of Management
• Ferzeen Sammy
  Academic Advisor, Department of Economics

Strategy & Communications Leads

• Jermaine Ingram
  Multimedia & Classroom Technology Specialist, Information & Instructional Technology Service
• Rachel Kulick
  Curriculum Support Officer, Undergraduate Programs
• Stephanie Santos
  Receptionist & Administrative Assistant, Department of Language Studies

Connections & Conversations' local UTM Chapter is guided by its Executive Committee, which provides leadership and operational management of activities such as organizing and running bi-monthly meetings, events, and other strategic initiatives.

Contact us: c.and.c.utm@utoronto.ca