After TMU — Marlon Merraro

Marlon Merraro, Social Work ‘06, is a well-recognized social systems architect with a clear focus on poverty reduction and addressing the social determinants of health within a framework of equity and inclusion. He brings 25 years of experience in leadership positions within the non-profit sector and municipal government. His work focuses on spearheading strategic planning and tactical methods that address complex social issues, resulting in improved and more equitable health and community services. Currently, Marlon is the Chair of the Toronto Children’s Aid Society and the Executive Director of Peacebuilders Canada. He made history last year after being the first Board Chair who identifies as Black Canadian.

Why did you choose to study at Ryerson University?

I chose TMU because, at the time of my application, TMU was a progressive University creating space for students to play an active role in issues in their respective communities. I also felt that the university environment needed more people of colour.

What skills did you develop in university that you continue to apply today?

Personal growth and development. Finding out who you are, who you want to be and what is important to you. This personal development led me to enhance my technical skills in research and foundational knowledge of the drivers of our social contract as a city, province and country. I also gained skills that enhanced my ability to work in teams and across intersecting identities and viewpoints. 

Where do you work right now, and what does a typical day look like for you?

I work at Peacebuilders Canada, a non-profit organization that improves access and support to youth and families in the justice, child welfare and education systems. Peacebuilders' restorative justice model is an effective tool to work with youth and communities in conflict and support critical reflection, skill development and positive decision-making skills. 

There are no typical workdays, especially during a pandemic. However, consistent themes impact what my leadership team and I do. These include building/enhancing cross-sector relationships, navigating a non-profit resource and development ecosystem and addressing critical program and service-related tasks while supporting frontline staff and board members to maximize their impact.  

How has mentorship from others impacted your career? What advice would you give to those seeking mentorship opportunities?

Mentorship from others has paved the way for me to receive greater, more robust learning while challenging myself. Mentorship can mean just following the work and dialogues of trusted people with aligned agendas, or it can mean seeking out those mentors whose work and commitment to a cause or community you value.

When seeking out mentorship — be bold and expand your comfort zone. Remember, you also have a lot to offer the mentor. It's a mutual learning opportunity.

How do you understand the significance of being the first person of colour appointed as the Chair of the Board of Toronto Children's Aid Society?

The significance of my role as chair of CAST is to continue the work of many before me. It is only significant in this time because, as Black and racialized folks, we continue to see the lack of systemic inclusion and the erasure of our historical contributions. It is significant because I have a tremendous amount of responsibility to myself, my communities, and an organization working hard to create an organizational future that does not need to celebrate being the “first”.  

In your experience, what are some attributes of the most successful individuals in your field?

Attributes I find of most successful individuals are:

• A drive for creativity 
• Openness to failure — that's where the learning happens
• Surrounding themselves with different perspectives
• Understanding/accepting that we all have personal value 
• Enjoy and promote humour
• Authenticity and intentionality  

Do you see an absence of people of colour represented in places of leadership within your field? If so, what do you think can be done to change this? 

The not-for-profit sector is a diverse and significant contributor to our Canadian identity. Various parts of this sector are challenging the structural barriers of exclusion impacting Black, Indigenous and racialized folks. However, more needs to be done — and not tomorrow but today. 

Things that we can do to change this situation is to include the following:

• More accountability measures and metrics for organizations and government funds and foundations to address systemic barriers and culture
• Long term investment in Black, Indigenous and underrepresented groups
• Implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations 
• Strategies at all levels of government that are matched with accountability metrics and resources (dollars in budgets — not one-time grants)
• Truth and reconciliation process for the Black community in Canada 

What advice do you have for young people of colour interested in taking up leadership positions?

The reality of systemic barriers and oppression is ever-present. This is most evident in sectors that are slow to change, don't want to change, or see any value in changing. This reality is just that — a reality. Who you are and what you want to do are more important than the systemic barriers.

Engage in those systems with mentorship, allyship, confidence and a dose of bravery that will help to protect you. 

What do you value most in a leader? How does this shape your leadership style?

I value authentic leadership and understand the power and privilege one has while creating space for others to lead. That is the kind of leader I strive to be as it relates to a greater understanding of my power and privilege. However, it can sometimes be difficult because I must unlearn toxic philosophies and perspectives of colonization that continues to inform our sense of self and others around us.   

Looking back, what would you say to your university self?

I would say, “Say yes more often than no. Be bolder and take care of yourself.” 

Is there anything else you'd like to touch upon or share?

“I can't believe what you say because I see what you do.” ― James Baldwin