EDI at the Business Career Hub
The Business Career Hub (BCH) continues its meaningful efforts to build a sense of belonging for its teams and students in their programming.
Microaggressions session by Dr. Yomna Awad
Beginning in 2022, the BCH’s Ted Rogers Co-op team partnered with Dr. Yomna Awad, an Education, Awareness and Outreach Specialist, with TMU’s Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion. The partnership focused on introducing a Microaggressions session to all students admitted to the Ted Rogers Co-op Program from 2022 onwards.
The Microaggressions session, developed by Dr. Awad and tailored to Co-op students, focused on identifying and addressing microaggressions both inside and outside of the workplace. By the end of the sessions, students would be equipped with the ability to recognize and address different types of microaggressions, their impacts and how to counter them.
Following this launch, in 2024, the Ted Rogers Co-op team created and launched an online module on D2L to provide Co-op students with access to the content and resources at any time. Students can engage in the material, presented through videos, photos and written pieces, while participating in knowledge checks and quizzes to ensure confirmation of learning. The Ted Rogers Co-op team launched the module with accessibility in mind, offering closed captioning and alternative text.
To date,
1,267 Ted Rogers Co-op students
have participated in the Microaggressions sessions prior to their first work term.
EDI/Wellness Committee
The BCH’s EDI/Wellness Committee has a demonstrated approach to EDI, having incorporated equitable practices into its workplace culture and organized inclusive projects. Over the past year, the committee produced the following outcomes:
Annual EDI Survey: Now in its third year, staff complete an assessment of internal EDI practices, with the 2023-24 survey attracting the highest participation rate with demonstrated support for EDI initiatives.
EDI Calendar: The committee maintains an annual calendar of significant cultural days from around the world.
The Name Game: A weekly practice where a team member shares the heritage or cultural meaning of their name, telling the story using photos, maps and family history.
“Out of the Box” Video Series: In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30), the committee organized an event featuring a video on the best-selling book, Indigenomics by Carol Anne Hilton. Breakout rooms were created to discuss the contributions of Indigenous people on the economy.
TRSM Pride
TRSM Pride, established in April 2024, proudly stands as Ted Rogers School’s first affinity group for 2SLGBTQ+ faculty, staff and their allies. With core values rooted in community and belonging, the group celebrates diversity, inclusion and accessibility, ensuring every individual feels welcomed and valued. Upholding ethics and integrity, TRSM Pride is committed to cultivating respect and transparency in all interactions. The group’s dedication to equity and justice drives their mission to advance human rights and social justice, advocating for fairness. Embodying courage, resilience and buoyancy, they confront challenges with bravery and persistence and inspire others to do the same. Through a focus on personal growth and empowerment, they empower individuals’ continuous learning, creativity and self-improvement.
Looking ahead, TRSM Pride plans to build strong connections with the Ted Rogers Pride Alliance student group, explore innovative ways to enhance safety and support for 2SLGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff, and amplify the group's presence within Ted Rogers School and the broader community.