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Economic Security for Immigrant Women: Collectively addressing biases in hiring practices

Event Description:

Community Conversation: Collective Strategies to Address Biased Hiring
Date: Saturday, June 3, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: 1000 Glenmore Ct SE, 1000 Glenmore Court Southeast, Calgary, AB T2C 2E6, Canada

This community conversation is part of the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women’s (ANIW) Economic Security for Immigrant Women project: Collectively addressing biases in hiring practices. The event aims to raise awareness of biases in hiring practices and their impact on immigrant women.

Objectives:

  • Inform attendees about biases in hiring practices and strategies to address them.
  • Identify opportunities to move forward on identified issues and create recommendations for equitable hiring practices.
  • Motivate and inspire attendees to influence HR practices and commit to improving equity for all applicants.

Schedule:

  • 8:30 – 9:00 AM: Registration and Coffee
  • 9:00 – 10:15 AM: Welcome and Opening Sessions
    Speakers: Dr. Geetha Ramesh, Dr. Cecille DePass, Siksika Elder Adrian Wolfleg & Dakshima Dilipani Haputhanthri
  • 10:15 – 10:35 AM: Keynote Speaker – Kathryn Oviatt
  • 10:35 – 10:50 AM: Break
  • 10:50 – 11:40 AM: Report Presentation & Breakout Sessions
    Speakers: Mariel Manago, Siju Ewuhbare, Jeff Halvorsen & Roxanne Singlot
  • 11:40 – 12:25 PM: Lunch Break
  • 12:25 – 12:45 PM: Artificial Intelligence in Hiring Processes – Denis Gravelle
  • 12:45 – 2:05 PM: Practices Emerging to Remove Barriers and Biases in Hiring Processes
    Speakers: Chene Redwood, Dr. Yewande Aturamu, Annahid Dashtgard & Siju Ewuhbare
  • 2:05 – 2:20 PM: Break
  • 2:20 – 2:45 PM: Breakout Sessions
  • 2:45 – 3:00 PM: Recap and Closing Remarks

Presented by: Alberta Network of Immigrant Women (ANIW)
Funded by: Women and Gender Equality Canada

ANIW has been empowering immigrant women since 1986 by fostering equality, justice, education, mentorship, and integrity in their communities. Join us for this important conversation to create collective solutions for equitable hiring practices!

Details
Date:
June 3, 2023
Time:
9:00 am
3:00 pm
Cost:
Free

Hosted By:

Alberta Network of Immigrant Women (ANIW)

Venue
1000 Glenmore Ct SE, 1000 Glenmore Court Southeast, Calgary, AB T2C 2E6, Canada
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Ivonne Toledo (Director at large)

International trained Lawer, graduated in Mexico with two bachelors, one in English Language and other in Laws.

Settled in Canada six years ago, faced all the vicissitudes of the immigrants. Now part of an immigration legal team, I want to contribute with team of the board of directors here in ANIW trying to help immigrant women to find their way in this country

Ramona Fernando

Ramona Fernando moved to Edmonton from Sri Lanka in 2000. I am a financial strategist by profession graduated from NAIT in 2016 with a degree in Accounting. I have worked in the banking, hospitality, event planning, accounting, taxation and non-for-profit sectors. Currently I am working at the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights as the Office and Financial Manager. My passion is serving the community, mentoring and coaching youth, adults and seniors. I spent my spare time with family cooking, reading, singing, gardening and learning new challenges in life and community.

Isabel Salcedo
Isabel Salcedo, is a proud first-generation Canadian from Calgary, Alberta. As one voice in the all-women a cappella sensation, Sonabelles, her resonant melodies are a testament to her musical prowess.
Beyond the spotlight, Isabel’s devotion to helping people shines bright. Engaging in charitable endeavors and volunteer work, she embodies her passion for creating positive change.
Isabel Salcedo’s story is a harmonious blend of music and compassion, weaving a tapestry that inspires others to embrace their passions and make the world a better place. Through her evocative performances and genuine care, she continues to leave an indelible mark on hearts and minds alike.
Tracey Campbell

Tracey Campbell is an experienced career practitioner with over 20 years of expertise in career development, employment counseling, and public policy. As a former Senior Policy Analyst with the Government of Alberta, she has contributed to initiatives that support workforce development, diversity, and inclusion. Tracey is deeply passionate about empowering women and newcomers to reach their full potential through meaningful career pathways and community engagement. She looks forward to connecting with individuals and agencies to share knowledge, provide guidance, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen employment opportunities and social wellbeing.

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Dr. Sandra Dixon

Dr. Sandra Dixon is a Registered Psychologist, Certified Life Coach, and Associate Professor at the University of Lethbridge. Her research focuses on spirituality, race, gender, immigration, and social justice, with special attention to racial trauma and anti-Black racism. She actively serves on several community and professional boards, including the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women. Recognized for her leadership and dedication to equity and inclusion, Dr. Dixon has received multiple awards for her teaching, community service, and advocacy in promoting social justice.

Heidy Panameno (Secretary)

Heidy is an award-winning director, producer, and Emily Carr Institute graduate recognized for her community-building vision and creative leadership. Founder of Panameno Productions, she empowers emerging leaders in arts and culture, fostering collaboration and meaningful, educational media. Her work bridges Indigenous and multicultural communities to preserve storytelling and history. A published author and respected mentor, Heidy has inspired youth through film programs across school boards. Her lifelong mission is to use visual media to build safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities. Her achievements are featured in the Women’s Art Museum of Canada.

Hina Thaker (Treasurer)
Hina comes from a legal practice background of regulatory, privacy, labour and employment and human rights law. She has experience in both the private and public sectors as well as not-for-profit organizations. Her previous roles include in-house counsel at he Canadian Cattle Identification Agency, the Calgary Police Service and an Associate at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin. Hina has been practicing for 20 years and has gained board experience as a corporate secretary, and director throughout her career. She served on the ANIW board for several years in the past and has returned to the board again in 2025. 
Abby Aiyeleye

Abby Aiyeleye is a certified project manager and business analyst with over twelve years of international experience. Holding a Business Administration degree from the University of Greenwich, she is dedicated to empowering underrepresented groups through volunteer work. As a member of the Women’s Advocacy Voice of Edmonton and ANIW, Abby is passionate about helping immigrant women thrive in Alberta and Canada. She encourages women to pursue ambitious careers and businesses while maintaining strong family values.

Dr. Maria Louisa Torres (President)

A mathematician born and raised in Mexico City.  I immigrated to Canada for further studies and a professional life in academia. I am involved with the Latin American Literary Association, Calgary Mexican Association and the Calgary Police Services. Other interests included working for the El Salvador Solidarity of McMaster’s University and the Hamilton Police Services. I am currently the president. I am passionate about the work that ANIW does to empower immigrant women.