VOLUME 01 | ISSUE 01
APRIL, 2024
Amplify
Elevating EDI in the Rotman Ecosystem
WELCOME
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Amplify – the official newsletter of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office (EDIO) at the Rotman School of Management. The EDIO is dedicated to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the Rotman community.
As we embark on this journey together, our mission is clear: To amplify diverse voices, champion equity-driven initiatives and cultivate an inclusive environment where every member feels valued and empowered to thrive.
Amplify will share with you what is happening in the EDI space of the Rotman community, and we hope that through our events, we will spark dialogue, inspire action, and drive positive change within our institution and beyond. From highlighting the achievements of underrepresented groups to sharing best practices for creating inclusive spaces, this newsletter serves as a platform to celebrate diversity and promote equity in all aspects of our academic and professional endeavors.
The EDIO invites you to join us as we embark on this transformative journey to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive business school community for all. If you have questions, suggestions or ideas, please feel free to email us: EDIO@rotman.utoronto.ca
Sincerely,
The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team
Looking Back
Orange Shirt Day
In observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, on September 25, 2023, in partnership with Strategic Events, the EDIO invited Bob Joseph, author of 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act to discuss his book, and its repercussions on generations of Indigenous Peoples. If you missed the event, Bob spoke with Rotman Visiting Experts before taking the stage. Give it a listen.
Fostering Disability Inclusion
On November 29, 2023, the EDIO facilitated the ‘Fostering Disability Inclusion’ event with Rotman Access to Success, as well as GBC. This event brought together academics, professionals, students and more to explore strategies for businesses to enhance inclusive hiring practices for individuals with disabilities and create more accessible workspaces. The event aimed to foster a meaningful dialogue on these crucial aspects of disability inclusion in the business realm.
Breaking Barriers, Building Connections
In collaboration with Rotman Students Against-Black Racism (SABR) and Rotman Advancement Office, the EDIO welcomed Tapfuma Musewe, Associate Director of Sustainable Finance at EYElliance; Gave Lindo, the Head of Content Programming at TikTok; and Apefa Adjivon the Co-Chair for Girls to Action Foundation, as they discussed the challenges and opportunities of black professionals in corporate Canada on January 15, 2024.
Rotman on Inclusion Week
From March 18 to March 22, 2024, Rotman on Inclusion (ROI) Week celebrated the diversity of Rotman’s community and promoted inclusion by engaging community members in a series of events. The week featured activities and culinary delights celebrating Rotman’s cultural and community clubs; three panels addressing EDI navigation in leadership, workplace, and campus contexts; and an Inclusion Celebration showcasing live performances from our student groups.
International Day of Pink
On April 12, 2024, in partnership with Rotman Pride, and sponsorship from TD Insurance and Manulife, the EDIO marked the Day of Pink, an international event against bullying and homophobia. The evening featured guest speaker Christopher Hand (MBA ‘23) along with performances by the Sing Out Choir and a drag artist.
Looking Forward
Discover What’s Ahead: 2024 – 2025
In the 2024-2025 school year, we look forward to seeing you at one of our diverse array of events celebrating equity, inclusion, diversity and belonging.
October | National Disability Employment Awareness Month
In October we will host a panel discussion and networking event honoring Canada’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Learn more about NDEAM.
November | Interfaith Celebration
Join us in November for an Interfaith Celebration. While you wait, become familiar with various observances by community members by reviewing UofT’s Multifaith electronic calendar.
January | MLK Day
In 2025 we will commemorate MLK Day with a panel/networking event.
February | Celebrating Viola Desmond & Black History Month Pitch Contest
In February we will celebrate female entrepreneurship, paying homage to Viola Desmond. Learn more about the life and legacy of Viola Desmond here. Also in February, there will be a pitch contest in honor of Black History Month.
April | Rotman on Inclusion (ROI) Week & Rotman Day of Pink
In April we will host our annual Rotman on Inclusion week. Finally, join us in mid April for our Day of Pink event, celebrating the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Click here for information on International Day of Pink.
Exploring Rotman: Profiles
Meet GBC’s EDI Vice President
Adelola (Lola) Adegbamiye, is the newly appointed Vice President of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) for the Graduate Business Council (GBC). With a rich background in engineering, technology and entrepreneurship, he has consistently driven positive change by seeking opportunities to improve the world around him through collaboration.
Lola is a passionate advocate for transformative leadership and innovation. His vision is to foster a more collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking community