![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f0610abd564c84962a9e56a/1605756145305-01QL8RV62BLB4VHYAHUE/top%2Bmain%2Bheader%2Bphoto%2Bnot%2Bsure%2Bwhich%2Bis%2Bhigh%2Bres.jpg)
DRIVING FORCE
It’s not about what you HAVE.
It’s about what you GIVE.
Together we are stronger.
Along with some of the most inspirational people I know, I am trying to create worthwhile change. Whether it is supporting ground-breaking research to end Parkinson's disease, teaming up with other women leaders to push for equality, or spearheading environmental stewardship.
Parkinson’s disease awareness
I’ve seen first-hand the way this disease affected our whole family while watching my late grandfather’s progression. I’ve since been honoured to meet hundreds of those affected by this condition, and their caregivers, as a Parkinson Canada spokesperson. I hope you’ll learn more about the events near you that aim to connect and inspire, along with raising funds toward research, education and awareness.
![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f0610abd564c84962a9e56a/1609272123940-ZE9VJSSK37YK0YZ9FOAU/SaphiaIvanWeddingCC+254.jpg)
“There were A LOT of tears shed while writing this one…”
In this very personal article I recount how no disease could break my grandparents’ love and connection, even in their final hours together.
East Africa and international aid
My family is from East Africa, and in 2008 I was fortunate to travel and work there with a development and equality organization, funded in part by the Canadian Millennium Goals. While living in Kampala, Uganda, traced my roots and met so many incredibly kind people. Now I’m connecting with like-minded organizations.
![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f0610abd564c84962a9e56a/1609274042080-RGB03GCSM1AS5M1FJ2HQ/africa%2Bhome%2Bpicture.jpg)
“I’ll never forget walking through the home that my family had fled decades ago as refugees.”
Read this look back at my family’s journey from Uganda to Canada in the 1970s
Gender equality & women’s issues
There’s great power in women and men coming together to fight for gender equality. To that end, I’ve been a part of various events around the GTA, including 2020’s inaugural International Women’s Day Burlington that brought together more than 500 people. I definitely plan on participating in more such events in the years to come including the 2021 Evolve Summit for women professionals.
![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f0610abd564c84962a9e56a/1609273397937-SSQ33WMK6EWUFS746U6P/FE6A1968%2B-%2B1-2.jpg)
“I’ve been honoured to use my platform to speak out for the women of tomorrow.”
Check out my open letter to little girls everywhere.
Environmental Stewardship
I’m fiercely passionate about protecting our planet, along with providing climate change-related education. Read more of my original environmental reporting.
![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f0610abd564c84962a9e56a/1606577752459-E21JKYFMVMO30O3HOTQT/FE6A1867+-+1.jpg)