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Not because I was being provocative. But because I genuinely believe we do each other a disservice when we decide a question is too complicated to touch.
The room was CIBC's International Professionals Network. The question was four words: "Where are you from?"
After the talk, a woman came up to me. She told me that for years, she'd answered that question with "I'm Persian" - a way of sharing something, while protecting herself from the judgment she feared might follow. She'd never felt safe enough to simply say, "I'm Iranian."
She said the talk was a pivotal moment in her journey of self-discovery. That she would be approaching conversations about her heritage differently from now on - with pride.
I've been thinking about that ever since.
Another attendee wrote to me afterwards:
"I've been asked 'Where are you from?' more times than I can count, and it's always a question that carries more weight than people realize. The way you unpacked that - with both empathy and clarity - made me feel seen in a way I didn't expect. It was one of those sessions that genuinely shifts how you think and how you show up."
That's why this conversation matters. I'd love for you to watch it.
During the talk, I share a framework I designed specifically for this question - one that guides you on how to ask it, when to ask it, and when to leave it alone altogether. And just as importantly, how to receive it with grace if you're the one being asked.
June 24 - The Art of the Business Table (For Professionals Who Mean Business) · VERITY, Toronto · 5:00 - 8:30 PM
Some of the most career-defining moments happen over a meal. Are you ready for them?
An executive dining and learning experience at the stunning VERITY club - one of Toronto's most beautiful private members clubs. Over a guided 3-course meal, we'll cover the etiquette, strategy, and subtle skills that separate good from exceptional at the table. Plus network with some of Toronto's most fascinating business leaders.
June 11 - Gen Z Professionals Meetup · HOTHOUSE, Toronto · 6:30 - 8:30 PM
No managers. No agenda. Just young professionals (ages 19–29) talking freely with peers who actually get it. I've been hosting these in Durham Region for months - and you asked us to bring it to Toronto. 15 spots only. And more than half of them are already gone. If you're a leader managing Gen Z, share this with your team!
01 - Ontario Career Lab: One Morning. Real Impact.
I recently sat around a table with an oncologist, a police officer, a criminal lawyer, a program manager, and a non-profit executive - volunteering as a career coach for Grade 9 and 10 students across Ontario. We shared our stories, our pivots, and the lessons we wish we'd known earlier. The student feedback said it all: "Thank you for telling me it's ok not to know." If you're a professional looking for a meaningful way to give back, check out the Ontario Career Lab.
02 - Women's Multicultural Resource Centre: The Unwritten Rules of Canadian Business
Recently, I've been coaching women launching businesses here in Canada - unpacking the unspoken expectations around communication, networking, and professional presence that can make or break relationships in a new market. I grew genuinely attached to this group, and was sad to see our sessions come to an end.
As a thank-you, three participants who run an apparel company gifted me a stunning handmade satin dress. I was honoured. Their technical ability is extraordinary. If you're looking for a custom piece, they can make it happen. shopartisanapparel
03 - The Workplace Divide: What I Told a Room of Business Leaders (and Parents)
According to a 2025 Deloitte survey, only 6% of Gen Z say their primary career goal is leadership. Not because they lack ambition - because they've watched us burn out. I was recently invited to speak to a room of Toronto CEOs and entrepreneurs about what's really driving that divide - and what we can do about it, both as leaders and as parents.
A lot happened this month. But looking back at all of it - the conversations, the coaching, the students - the thread running through all of it is the same thing that brought me to this work in the first place. Human connection.
Subscribe for tips on handling workplace challenges, building communication and social skills, and exclusive course updates. Hear success stories from professionals, perfect for young professionals and leaders aiming to sharpen their skills and foster respect.
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