In this episode Kimiko Shibata, a multilingual language educator for the Waterloo Region District School Board is both Host and Thought Leader. She is joined by Natalie Royer, ECE and Belonging/EDI consultant and Ian Mark Kamanjie, a TV producer director.

They explore how our upbringing and education shape our reactions to others, the ongoing battle against misidentification and misrepresentation, and the groundbreaking projects aimed at uplifting our communities.

We have the pleasure of hearing personal stories, powerful quotes, and practical insights that will leave a lasting impact. Delving into the importance of representation, language preservation, and the impact of colonial languages on our identities. Together, they will guide our discussion towards compassionate change and the essential role we all play in creating conditions for everyone to flourish. Join us in this thought-provoking and heartwarming conversation as we uncover the rebellious resources that are reshaping our perspectives for the better. Buckle up and get ready to send those positive ripples into the community, because the journey towards compassionate change starts right here, right now.

Host & Guest:

Kimiko Shibata, Multilingual Resource Co-ord, WRDSB

Kimiko Shibata is a multilingual learner (MLL) resource teacher with the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB). She has been an educator in childcare settings, as well as a classroom teacher in Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior divisions. She holds ESL Specialist Qualifications and Special Education qualifications, and is currently an ESL/ELD Resource Teacher for K-8 for the Waterloo Region District School Board, in Ontario, Canada. Kimiko was honoured to receive a 2021 Leading Women, Leading Girls – Building Communities Recognition Award

Guests:

Natalie Royer, Facilitation, Belonging & EDI Consultant, RECE

Natalie Royer is a belonging consultant, strategist and coach at Saroy Group Inc. She provides training sessions primarily in the education sector and consults with companies and organizations on how to promote a space of belonging using an equity, diversity and inclusion lens. She has worked in the healthcare sector (i.e. Hospital For Sick Children) and she has taught at colleges and universities for over10 years. With a background in early childhood education, she advocates for the next generations and hopes as leaders we can create an inclusive space where everyone can thrive. Natalie Royer, speaks specifically to creating belonging, inclusion and anti-racism in the Early Childhood realm.

Ian Mark Kimanje, Producer, Director, Diversity promoter

Ian Mark Kimanje is a director/producer, with a multitude of experience. Over his years in the industry, having worked in Africa, Australia, Europe and North America, Ian has directed and produced content for Mnet Africa, Facebook, Microsoft and many broadcasters such as National Geographic, PBS, TVO, Knowledge Network, Arte France and Canal D. Ian is the Founder/Producer of Film Garage North Inc, a production company that operates in Canada and Africa. He is also co-founder of Africa Children's Television and Film Foundation. He loves partnerships with other producers to create content world-wide.