
Conference Speakers
Join us in empowering established and aspiring leaders at the Elevate Her Conference. Let's elevate together!
Abi Kibarita-Martens
Conference Host
Abigail Kibarita-Martens is a passionate educator and project coordinator committed to empowering communities through education, theatre, and strategic initiatives. As an active member of Black Women Connect Vancouver, she plays a pivotal role in organizing projects that promote community engagement, leadership, and growth.
Her dedication to youth empowerment is evident in her work with initiatives like Empowered Black, which provides Black teens with the resources, mentorship, and inspiration they need to reach their full potential. A lover of theatre, Abigail harnesses the power of creative expression and storytelling to uplift voices and foster self-confidence, believing in the transformative impact of the arts.
With her background in education and theatre, Abigail is deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where Black women and youth are seen, heard, and supported. She works tirelessly to build platforms that encourage individuals to express themselves authentically and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Abigail is thrilled to be the host of the 2025 Elevate Her Concert, an event dedicated to celebrating talent, creativity, and empowerment within the community. Her unwavering commitment to strengthening and uniting communities continues to make a lasting impact.
Jam Gamble
Opening Keynote Speaker
Slayer of the Mic, Vocal Empowerment Coach, and Multidimensional Speaker
Jam Gamble is a globally recognized vocal empowerment coach, dynamic speaker, and media personality whose mission is to help individuals reclaim, trust, and amplify their voices unapologetically. Known as the Slayer of the Mic, Jam has worked with leading brands including RBC, Lululemon, Pinterest, MetLife, and WSIB, delivering transformational keynotes and workshops to audiences of all sizes.
While vocal empowerment is Jam’s cornerstone, her expertise extends beyond the mic. As a seasoned entrepreneur and woman in business, Jam is passionate about fostering healthier workplace environments that empower individuals to show up as their best and whole selves. Whether she’s helping leaders embrace authentic communication, sharing her entrepreneurial journey, or delivering insights on leadership and personal growth, Jam brings unparalleled energy and impact to every stage.
A familiar face and voice across major media platforms, Jam has appeared on The Social, Breakfast Television, and SiriusXM, using these platforms to amplify her message and inspire audiences worldwide. Her charisma, expertise, and authenticity shine through in every appearance, cementing her as a trusted voice in her field.
Through her Slay The Mic™ Method, Jam has equipped thousands of people with the tools to overcome self-doubt, address “vocal roadblocks,” and discover the power of their unique voices. Her holistic, innovative approach doesn’t just focus on speaking—it’s about rediscovering confidence, fostering connection, and inspiring change on every stage and platform.
From corporate leaders to students, Jam’s audiences leave feeling empowered and ready to step into their fullest potential. Whether she’s coaching, speaking, or showing up in the media spotlight, Jam continues to redefine what it means to own your voice.
Lillian Umurungi-Jung
Panelist - Building Resilience and Innovation in Business: How Black Women Entrepreneurs are Shaping the Future
Lillian Umurungi-Jung is a mom, entrepreneur, and real food advocate, best known as the founder of Mumgry, a line of ethically sourced, natural nut butters celebrated for their quality, sleek design, and no added sugar, palm oil, or additives. Born in Uganda and raised in Canada as the youngest of five, Lillian’s journey spans from child actor to film school graduate, with 16 jobs in 10 years before launching Mumgry in October 2019. Bootstrapping the brand with her severance pay, she has grown Mumgry into a household name, earning recognition from Beyoncé.com and securing collaborations with ice cream parlors—all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic to keep her retail partnerships thriving. Lillian’s passion for community, sustainability, and better-for-you snacking continues to fuel her mission to create food that nourishes both people and the planet.
Giselle Blackman
Workshop Facilitator - Navigating Workplace Politics
Giselle Blackman (MBA, CPHR, SHRM-SCP, CHRL) is an award-winning, certified Human Resources Executive currently serving as the Vice President of People Culture at Fit-Foods Ltd, a consumer packaging firm that manufactures and sells protein powders internationally. Her experience, education and unique perspective enable her to operationalize the firm’s strategy and drive organizational culture.
She holds an Executive MBA and Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University, a Diploma in Arts from Douglas College, and a Diploma in Human Resources from the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
With a background encompassing HR leadership across diverse industries such as Financial Services, Real Estate, Manufacturing, and Consumer Products, Giselle's contributions have left lasting impacts. Notably, she played a pivotal role in leading HR for TransLink’s Olympic Transportation Project Team during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
Giselle's proficiency extends across HR strategy, operations, talent development, DEI initiatives, health and wellness, payroll, and employee relations.
In addition to her role as a dedicated mother to Kenny Jr. and a loving partner to Kenny Sr., Giselle is deeply committed to community service. In addition to her role as Board Chair at Pacifica, Giselle volunteers with CPHR BC & Yukon HR Association. She also serves as a Board Member for Cultch and is the Vice-Chair of the DE&I Strategy Committee for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.
Giselle enjoys giving back and strives to make an impact in her relationships, projects and society as whole.
Ruth Unaegbu
Workshop Facilitator - Navigating Burnout
Ruth Unaegbu Counselling & Coaching is a private counselling practice based in British Columbia, Canada, providing compassionate, culturally affirming support. Ruth Unaegbu is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12132) and Approved Clinical Supervisor with over 15 years of experience offering counselling, supervision, and coaching services to clients in British Columbia and worldwide.
Ruth specializes in working with People of the Global Majority, focusing on Black women, first-generation Canadians, and immigrants. She also works extensively with creative professionals and high-performing athletes, helping them address challenges such as performance blocks, focal dystonia, and personal and professional growth.
Her expertise extends to parental guidance, where she supports parents and caregivers in understanding child behaviour, addressing caregiving challenges, and meeting attachment needs. Ruth is also highly experienced in transracial adoption, assisting adoptees and adoptive families in navigating racial trauma, fostering healthy family dynamics, and developing a strong sense of cultural identity.
At the heart of Ruth's practice is a deep commitment to addressing the complex intersections of identity, race, trauma, and high performance, helping individuals heal and thrive. Her approach is empathetic, professional, and grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and transformation.
Sharla Farrell
Workshop Facilitator - Strategies for Safeguarding Your Business Identity (PR)
Sharla Farrell is a seasoned public relations and communications consultant and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the public relations industry, especially for BIPOC representation. With over a decade of experience, Sharla has honed her expertise in digital marketing, media relations, communications, and copywriting. As a proud Black female entrepreneur, she founded Easy Consulting Studio to empower small businesses to communicate their messages effectively. Sharla’s commitment to excellence and dedication to uplifting underrepresented voices set her apart as a leader in her field.
Rochelle Grayson
Workshop Facilitator - AI in Business
Rochelle Grayson is a dynamic leader with over 30 years’ experience in business, technology, and education. As Co-Founder of Circles of AI and Founder of Mosaic Accelerator, she champions learning and innovation through AI applications and has taught AI courses at the University of British Columbia (UBC), focusing on AI application, innovation, and ethics for Canadian and international students ranging from high school through to Executive Education. Rochelle has also received the UBC John K. Friesen Excellence in Teaching award.
Recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women's Executive Network, Rochelle has been named "The New Executive Cool Hunter" by Canadian Business Magazine, awarded one of Vancouver's Top Forty Under 40 by Business in Vancouver, and listed among Vancouver's Top 10 Technology Women. Rochelle holds an MBA in Finance and Business Policy from the University of Chicago, and her career has spanned from New York to Silicon Valley, and now Vancouver, Canada. Her extensive expertise in digital business models and AI-driven solutions makes her a prominent figure in the tech and business communities.
Firina Anchor-Beamish
Workshop Facilitator - Strategies for Safeguarding Your Business Identity (PR)
Firina’s journey from South Sudan to Cairo, Ottawa, and ultimately Vancouver has shaped her into a dynamic leader in the PR and marketing industry. As the founder of Firina Achor Creative Agency, she has built an accomplished career working with top-tier clients in health, wellness, retail, and fashion. With a keen eye for strategy and execution, Firina has successfully led high-impact campaigns, driving brand visibility, fostering community engagement, and setting new standards for inclusion and representation. Her expertise extends beyond traditional marketing, as she actively contributes to cultural conversations that empower women, particularly Black women and entrepreneurs.
Her ability to curate meaningful events and collaborations has positioned her as a thought leader who bridges the gap between social causes and commercial success. With every initiative, Firina balances her personal experiences, offering a relatable, authentic touch that resonates deeply with diverse audiences. Her story is not only one of professional achievement but of personal resilience and a commitment to advancing cultural shifts that inspire and empower communities.
Melissa Nkomo
Panelist - Building Resilience and Innovation in Business: How Black Women Entrepreneurs are Shaping the Future
Melissa Nkomo is the founder and CEO of Kunye Wellness Group, a wellness company providing the tools and resources to support a more mindful and sustainable approach to physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
For almost 15 years, Melissa has carved her own unique path in the wellness world. Merging her passion for fitness and beauty, she has shared her knowledge and deep love for refined and intentional living through her business.
Kunye sells a collection of skincare products online and across Canada. In 2022, Melissa became the first Black woman to open a pilates-based studio in western Canada called The Well by Kunye and is credited with starting the slow wellness movement.
By creating intentional offerings and sharing honest information, Melissa is helping to open up a world of possibilities for others - and empower a more mindful and well-lived life for all.
Asha Wheeldon
Panel Moderator - Building Resilience and Innovation in Business: How Black Women Entrepreneurs are Shaping the Future
Asha Wheeldon is a Kenyan-born chef, entrepreneur, mother, and founder of Kula Foods, a plant-based company celebrating African and Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Based in Vancouver, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, sustainable food spaces that connect people through culture and diversity. With a background in tech and a passion for food, Asha has become a trailblazer in the plant-based market, offering innovative, culturally rich products. She partners with organizations like Flavours of Hope to mentor women entrepreneurs and support marginalized communities. As a mother, Asha is deeply committed to building a legacy of sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural appreciation for future generations.
Djaka Blais
Panelist - Leading with Purpose: Strategies for Authentic and Impactful Leadership
Djaka Blais (she/her) is a social sector leader with 21 years of experience in philanthropy, government, and community mobilizing. She is a change agent to shift power dynamics and remove oppressive structures within philanthropic and nonprofit organizations. Djaka is the inaugural Executive Director of Hogan’s Alley Society, a Vancouver-based non-profit focused on advancing the social, political, economic, and cultural well-being of people of African descent (Black People) through the delivery of inclusive housing, built spaces, and culturally informed programming. Djaka is a founding Director of the Foundation for Black Communities, the first philanthropic foundation for Black communities in Canada. She is a board member with Philanthropic Foundations Canada and a How Women Lead fellow in their first Black cohort.
Karlyn Percil-Mercieca
Closing Keynote Speaker
Karlyn Percil-Mercieca, Founder of KDPM Consulting Group and Chief Equity Officer of KDPM Equity Institute, is a visionary catalyst for impactful global change through an ancestral knowledge system lens.
As the pioneer behind the groundbreaking L.E.A.P. to Equity, Ancestral Leadership, and Emotional Intelligence Program, Karlyn reimagines how we view Human and cultural equity, going beyond standard Diversity, Equity, Inclusion practices, and Anti-Racism Leadership training.
With a foundation in ancestral wisdom and cultural equity-focused learning, Karlyn drives equitable change by helping leaders and employees cultivate psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and personal growth within organizations.
Dedicated to cultivating a world where belonging and equity thrive, a world where Black women and all women feel safe enough to flourish, KDPM Group, in partnership with York University, has released a groundbreaking study on Workplace Well-Being, Psychological Safety in The Workplace, focused on Black women at work.
Karlyn and the team recently launched KOFA AI, an AI-powered human-supported coaching and mentorship platform rooted in ancestral knowledge systems, emotional intelligence, and neuroscience.
Through the Sistertalk Ubumuntu Fellowship Program, she aims to certify 1000 Black women as DREAM BIG Coaches, rooted in ancestral leadership and Emotional Intelligence through her EQ Clarity Coaching Program.
Elise Drayton
Panelist - Leading with Purpose: Strategies for Authentic and Impactful Leadership
Elise Drayton is a seasoned HR leader with over 20 years of expertise in strategic human resources across multinational tech companies, including Amazon, Snapchat, and Netflix. Originally from Vancouver, BC, Canada and now based in the US, Elise excels at aligning business objectives with innovative employee initiatives, leveraging analytics and a global mindset to drive scaling and operational excellence. A trusted advisor and executive coach, she partners with leaders to develop solutions that foster growth, inclusivity, and high-performing cultures. Elise has a deep understanding of international HR strategy, having worked across diverse regions including Canada, the US, Asia and Europe. Passionate about empowering teams and developing talent, she is committed to driving organizational success through strong partnerships, a human-centered approach, and impactful leadership.
Nataizya Mukwavi
Moderator - Leading with Purpose: Strategies for Authentic and Impactful Leadership
Nataizya Mukwavi is the Founding Executive Director of Black Women Connect Vancouver (BWCV), a non-profit organization established in 2017 to address critical gaps within the local Black community, with a particular focus on issues impacting Black women. In 2021, Nataizya spearheaded the launch of Empowered Black Girl (EBG), a groundbreaking conference aimed at inspiring and empowering teenage Black girls to emerge as future leaders.
In addition to her leadership role at BWCV, Nataizya has held positions as the Program Manager for the Black Business Association of BC (BBABC) and served as a Freelance Leadership Consultant with Career Contacts. She also has ontributed her expertise as a member of the Local Content Advisory Board of BC for TELUS Story Hive.
Nataizya's remarkable contributions have earned her recognition on multiple platforms. In 2022, she was honored as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch by Canada International Black Women Excellence (CIBWE), followed by a nomination as a YWCA Woman of Distinction Community Champion in 2023. In 2024, Nataizya received the prestigious Trailblazer Award from Diversity Community Resources, further cementing her commitment to driving positive change. Subsequently, she was honored with the 2024 Trailblazer Award from DiverseCity Community Resources Society as part of the Black Brilliance Awards.
Nadia Mallay
Panelist - Leading with Purpose: Strategies for Authentic and Impactful Leadership
Dr. Nadia Mallay [she/her] (BAH, PGCE, MEd, EdD) is a dominant-thought challenger and system’s disrupter to affect positive change. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Western University, a joint Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Curriculum and Pedagogy from the University of British Columbia, a teacher’s degree from Exeter University, and a Bachelor of Arts Honours from Queen’s University. Nadia is currently studying a Certificate in Law from Queen’s University and previously engaged in post doctorate studies in communities of practice in palliative care that was a joint project across three research universities in Canada. With over three decades of work experience and slightly more years in volunteer roles in communities across Canada and overseas, Nadia has observed and challenged deeply held inequities in Canadian systems with keen focus on educational systems including the near impermeable ivory tower of academia.
Nadia has held many inaugural roles, carving space in hegemonies where little space existed prior. She has been a worker and leader who moves with intention, authenticity, tenacity and integrity in Canada and around the world. In her fulfilling career, Nadia held the inaugural Vice President of Equity and Inclusive Communities at a university, and inaugural Director roles of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility in Canada. Upon Nadia’s advocacy and work, a university was able to have ground-breaking hiring of 15 Black staff and 15 Indigenous staff under a special programs initiative from the British Columbia’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner. Nadia was an inaugural mentor for the Queen’s Black Alumni Chapter, and was a key committee member in the establishment of the inaugural Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Office for the British Columbia Teachers’ Federation. Nadia also established a Regional Node of the Canadian Black Scientists Network, and she has taken steps to have a process whereby employers can better understand and address racism as a health matter. Additionally, Nadia is Founder and Principal Consultant of Biophilic Consulting, which focuses on supporting difficult change and growth in organizations while centering and honouring the people that make-up organizations.
Nadia has been lucky enough to have her hard work, determination, and profound resiliency open doors for herself, but more so for diverse members in communities in Canada and overseas. She is immensely lucky to have a solid community surrounding her. Nadia continues to create positive change for others, no matter how challenging.
Phebe Trotman
Workshop Facilitator - The Power of Your Words: Speak Success
Phebe Trotman is a heart-centered entrepreneur and accomplished soccer player. She has achieved many accolades as an athlete, including being inducted into several sports halls of fame, winning championship titles, and being recognized as an exceptional athlete. Phebe has also excelled in her career as a network marketer, earning top awards and recognition within her company. Phebe recently released her second book in a book series titled, "Never Quit on a Bad Day: Inspiring Stories of Resilience". Reading this book series will energize you to overcome your challenges, strengthen you with the tools needed to do it, and invoke your sense of gratitude for your personal journey. Phebe is passionate about personal growth and empowering others to reach their full potential.
Aanu Adeleye
Speaker: Optimizing Financial Literacy (KPMG)
Aanu Adeleye, MBA, CPA, CPA (Illinois)
Aanu is a dedicated Partner at KPMG’s Audit Private Enterprise practice, bringing over sixteen years of experience in the Public Sector and Not-for-Profit sectors. She is committed to delivering customized solutions and insights to organizations, including educational institutions, local governments and not-for-organizations, ensuring they receive the tailored support they need. Aanu firmly believes in the power of empathy, mindfulness, and recognizing each person's unique journey—values that have enabled her to make a significant and positive impact both within and beyond the public sector.
Ayomide Kolawole-Osafehinti
Speaker: Optimizing Financial Literacy (KPMG)
FCCA – Senior Manager, KPMG Private Enterprise
With over fifteen years of experience, Ayomide serves as a Senior Manager at KPMG's Audit Private Enterprise practice, working with a diverse array of public sector clients. Her portfolio encompasses national bodies, advanced educational institutions, school districts, local governments, and not-for-profit organizations. Her passion lies in promoting transparency and empowering organizations to use their resources effectively, enabling them to create lasting, positive change within our local communities.
Efemena Esieboma
Speaker: Optimizing Financial Literacy (KPMG)
ACCA, ACA – Manager, KPMG Private Enterprise
As an Audit Manager at KPMG, Efemena brings eight years of progressive experience in the audit industry, specializing in financial statement audits. With a keen focus on financial reporting, accounting, and harnessing AI-driven tools, she consistently enhances audit efficiency and accuracy. Her expertise extends across various sectors, particularly within private enterprises. Driven by a passion for empowering others, Efemena is dedicated to fostering excellence and inclusivity in the professional space.
Chelsia Watson
Workshop Facilitator: The Career Pivot: Rebranding & Positioning for Top Roles amidst the DEI push back era
MSc, Research Program Manager
Chelsia Watson is the Research Project Manager for the Black Equity Integration Initiative, bringing her expertise in medical science and a passion for leveraging data to drive meaningful change. She holds a Master of Science in Medical Science from the University of Toronto, where she conducted research on intersectional study design and developed a marginalization index through advanced statistical analysis. Her experience in clinical research and data analytics equips her with the skills to oversee project execution, facilitate focus groups, and build strategic partnerships with Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs) to enhance qualitative data collection.
Driven by a commitment to fostering inclusivity and social impact, Chelsia empowers businesses and organizations through evidence-based research and strategic insights. She is a dedicated advocate for using data to support underserved communities, helping them achieve economic inclusion and sustainable growth. Chelsia’s leadership in research consulting and program design reflects her dedication to creating equitable opportunities and systemic change.
Amoye Henry
Workshop Facilitator: The Career Pivot: Rebranding & Positioning for Top Roles amidst the DEI push back era
INVESTOR, AUTHOR & STRATEGIST
Amoye Henry, MBA is an investor, author and strategist on a mission to scale growth-based businesses led by unique founders across four different continents. She has worked to secure millions in funding for tech entrepreneurs, start-ups, and innovation-driven organizations.
She is the Co-Founder of Pitch Better Inc., a market-research firm that supports underrepresented founders. She is also a Co-Founder of AfroChic Inc. a conference built at the intersections of art and tech, which has platformed global talent such as Issa Rae, Erykah Badu, Jidenna, Wale, Teedra Moses and Wizkid.
Amoye is the author of Don't Panic, Pivot (2023) and Navigating Covid-19 (2020). Her writing covers topics such as entrepreneurship, economic growth, global business strategy and investment. Through her writing, she aims to provide comfort to high performing professionals looking to find balance. She lives in London, UK with her family.
Renita Drakes
Panelist - Building Resilience and Innovation in Business: How Black Women Entrepreneurs are Shaping the Future
Entrepreneur, Investor, Author and Transformational Speaker
Renita is a visionary entrepreneur, real estate investor, and empowering voice for women and underrepresented communities. As the founder of Gold Trident Capital Inc, Renita has built a multi-million dollar real estate portfolio spanning North America and the Caribbean, leveraging innovative strategies and a collaborative team to achieve remarkable success. As a Black woman, immigrant, mother, and sole provider, Renita has defied societal expectations, proving that resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking can transform challenges into extraordinary opportunities.
Beyond her accomplishments in business and real estate, Renita is a dynamic speaker and first-time author with an upcoming book focused on empowerment, resilience, and breaking through barriers. Her journey is a testament to the power of defying limiting beliefs and creating pathways to financial independence and personal fulfillment.
Renita’s story is a powerful reminder that your background or circumstances do not define your destiny. Through her work, she inspires others to think boldly, act strategically, and build legacies that transcend barriers. Whether sharing insights on real estate investment, entrepreneurial mindset, or personal empowerment, Renita’s message resonates with audiences seeking to unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Nerissa Allen
Workshop Facilitator: Unlocking Funding Opportunities for Your Business or Non-Profit Organization
Nerissa Allen is a dynamic community leader and entrepreneur dedicated to fostering economic prosperity within the African Diaspora. As the Co-Founder and President of the Black Business Association of BC, she drives progressive change to empower Black businesses across BC and Canada.
With over 20 years of experience as a federal public servant, Nerissa has significantly contributed to organizations such as the Barbados Cultural Association of BC and the Vancouver Economic Commission Advisory Board, and most recently being appointed to the Surrey Police Board. Her impactful work has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2021 Surrey Board of Trade Women in Business Social Trail Blazer award and recognition as one of BIVBC’s 500 most influential leaders in 2023. Additionally, she was honored as one of the 100 Most Influential Black Canadians by AfroGlobal TV in both 2022 and 2024, and named one of the 100 Most Accomplished Black Canadian Women in 2024.
Actively committed to supporting non-profit organizations, Nerissa Allen Consulting re-imagines how organizations engage with their audiences by developing innovative hybrid business growth strategies and integrating advanced technology. Her efforts promote a more inclusive and robust economic environment for all.