Celina Caesar-Chavannes is no stranger to breaking boundaries as a Black woman in business and politics.

When Celina became the first Black person elected to represent the federal riding of Whitby, Ontario, she hadn't really thought about the fact that Ottawa wasn't designed for someone like her.

The former Member of Parliament, who served as parliamentary secretary to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Minister of International Development et la Francophonie, paid the price for speaking out about micro-aggressions and speaking up for her community and her riding, but she also felt exhilaration and empowerment.

Celina is an equity and inclusion advocate and leadership consultant, and her latest book, Can You Hear Me Now?  digs deep into her childhood and her life as a Black woman entrepreneur and politician and shows us that effective and humane leaders grow as much from their mistakes and vulnerabilities as from their strengths.

Celina will be in conversation with Takara Small, an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur who was named one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada. Takara is also the technology columnist for CBC's Metro Morning, host/producer for the Globe & Mail podcast I'll Go First, and host of CBC's new podcast series, A Death in Cryptoland.

This program will be recorded and available for replay at the same link.

Place a hold on Celina's book from Toronto Public Library here.

Questions about online programs? Please email us at programproposals@tpl.ca

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible, and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks' notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca

Celina Caesar-Chavannes: Can You Hear Me Now?