Alumni making a difference
From top left, clockwise: Ray Williams, Kayla Thomson, Takiyah Wedderburn and Aleem Punja
Meet four alumni who are making a difference. Using their experiences, expertise and innovation, they are tackling pressing issues, from advocating for marginalized children to empowering underserved groups. Their stories reflect the power of purpose-driven action and the significant role we can all play in building more resilient and inclusive communities.
Ray Williams
Honorary Doctorate ’24
Board Chair, Black Opportunity Fund
With more than four decades of experience in the financial sector, Ray Williams built a successful career rooted in community impact. Five years ago, he co-founded the Black Opportunity Fund (external link, opens in new window) , a community-led organization tackling anti-Black racism and supporting Black Canadian communities. By uniting leaders across industries, Williams sought to address gaps in education, financial literacy and technology — areas where Black Canadians remain underrepresented. The fund was formally established in 2020 amid global protests following George Floyd’s murder, highlighting the urgency of its mission.
Williams’ advocacy for equity is deeply personal. Often one of the few Black professionals in the room, he understands the barriers that persist in both corporate and community environments. Throughout his career, he has challenged these narratives, ensuring underrepresented talent is recognized and empowered. Inspired by Angela Davis, he champions continuous action to drive lasting change.
“You have to act as if it were possible to radically transform the world. And you have to do it all the time.” — Angela Davis
What advice would you give to others who want to make a meaningful difference in their communities?
To make a meaningful difference, it’s important to take action and stay committed. Here are some observations from my lived experience:
- Take the first step: Start by stepping into the fray and getting moving. Addressing community issues can seem overwhelming at first, but action is essential. Remember: “talk does not cook rice.” Taking that initial step will pave the way for further action.
- Expect setbacks: Understand that success is not linear. There will be setbacks along the way, but perseverance is key. Think of it as eating an elephant if you are an ant, one bite at a time.
- Stay rooted in values: Embrace innovation while staying rooted in values of inclusivity, sustainability and collaboration. Your work can serve as a catalyst for positive change, inspiring others to follow suit.
By taking these steps, you can create a lasting and positive impact in your community. Keep pushing forward, and remember that every small action contributes to a larger change.
Kayla Thomson
RTA ’20
Marketing Specialist, Public Services Health and Safety Association
Giving back has been a personal mission for Kayla Thomson and her family since 2000, when she was diagnosed with oculocutaneous albinism as a baby and underwent eye muscle surgery. Since then, they have raised more than $250,000 for London’s Children’s Health Foundation (external link, opens in new window) (CHF) through community-driven events like fish fries, concerts and fishing tournaments. Their Annual MacDonald Turkey Point Marina Bass Tournament has become a key event, uniting people in support of pediatric health care.
For the Thomsons, every initiative is meaningful. According to CHF, donor support funds 95 per cent of pediatric equipment and over 20 programs at London Children’s Hospital. In December 2024, they visited the hospital during their Santa Claus campaign, offering comfort to young patients and their families. Whether through donations, hands-on support or community events, they believe every effort makes a difference. Their guiding principle is simple: “A child’s health is the greatest gift.”
What advice would you give to others who want to make a meaningful difference in their communities?
While many decisions may leave you second guessing your path — whether it’s your career, where you live or who you surround yourself with — giving back is a choice you won’t regret. To support employees volunteering, many workplaces now offer time off for community service. Check to see if your workplace provides this time off and start making a difference!
Aleem Punja
Disability Studies ’16
Executive Director, Future Ready Initiative, Aga Khan Council for Canada
Aleem Punja’s commitment to social change is shaped by his experiences as a second-generation Canadian. His family’s immigration journey instilled resilience, gratitude and a deep responsibility to give back. Guided by the principle of seva — selfless service — he has dedicated his career to advocacy, policy and community engagement. At the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies, he worked to improve outcomes for children in care, youth seeking adoption and Indigenous communities affected by the Sixties Scoop. A key initiative, the “Bring Children Home” strategy, reconnected Indigenous children with their families and cultural roots.
Now leading the Future Ready Initiative (external link, opens in new window) , Punja focuses on strengthening the social safety net, supporting newcomers and reducing poverty through cross-sector partnerships. Through organizations like CivicAction Emerging Leaders Network and the Toronto District School Board, he works to break barriers and empower marginalized communities. His advocacy reflects his belief that progress comes through collaboration, integrity and purposeful service.
What advice would you give to others who want to make a meaningful difference in their communities?
- Follow your heart: Start with what truly matters to you. When you’re driven by your passion and values, you’ll find the strength to keep going, even when things are hard.
- Listen deeply: Take time to really hear the stories and needs of people around you.
- Use what you have to lift others: Whether it’s your time, skills, connections or resources, use your privilege to open doors for others.
- Be patient and keep going: Change doesn’t happen overnight, and it won’t always be easy. But every small step forward adds up.
- Build connections: You can’t do it alone. Work with others who care about the same things you do to make a bigger impact.
Takiyah Wedderburn
Child and Youth Care ’17
Founder, Natural Kids Movement
Takiyah Wedderburn founded the Natural Kids Movement (NKM) to address the overrepresentation of Black and racialized children in Ontario’s child welfare system. As a graduate of TMU’s Child and Youth Care program and with nearly two decades of experience in the field, she saw firsthand the systemic inequities affecting marginalized children. Recognizing the need for culturally relevant resources, she launched NKM to promote self-worth and resilience, particularly for Black children in foster care. Through NKM, she provides empowering programs, tools and advocacy to uplift these children and their families.
Beyond NKM, Wedderburn collaborates with child welfare agencies and community organizations across Canada, leading workshops on Black hair, cultural identity and mental health. These initiatives align with NKM’s mission to inspire confidence in Black children and help them realize their potential. Despite challenges such as institutional biases and limited funding for culturally specific programs, she remains committed to fostering equity. Her work seeks to create lasting change, ensuring future generations see themselves positively reflected in society.
What advice would you give to others who want to make a meaningful difference in their communities?
Start by identifying a need in your community that speaks to your passions and values. Build relationships and collaborate with others who share your vision — change doesn’t happen in isolation. Be persistent, even when faced with challenges, and remain rooted in the purpose of your work. Most importantly, remember that small, consistent actions can create a ripple effect of meaningful change.
