Moriah Bacus, CAPM Ⓥ

When I made the leap from my 9-5 job after 11 years, I didn’t have a manual or a blueprint to guide me. What I did have was passion, purpose, vision, and faith. I trusted that, just as I’ve always been supported by the universe, Mother Nature, the Creator, and the humans placed on my path, I would not only survive—but thrive. Yesterday’s calendar was a testament to this transformation. Here’s a peek into my full day of work, what I call CEO diaries and it doesn’t look like this all the time: • 8:30-10:20 am: Mélanated Affinity Group Supervision (Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta represented) • 10:30-11:50 am: Another Affinity Supervision Group (Ontario, Alberta, and BC provinces represented) • 11:50 am - 12:25 pm: Lunch break • 12:30-1:00 pm: Consultation for Black History Month workshop • 1:00-2:00 pm: Individual supervision with someone in Ontario • 2:00-3:00 pm: Break • 3:15-4:00 pm: Meeting • 4:00 pm: Pick up daughter from choir • 4:15-5:00 pm: Preparing dinner • 5:30-8:30 pm: Teaching Africentric Social Work Mondays are my teaching and supervision days—no therapy sessions. It’s a consultation-heavy day that can get pretty busy, but today is quieter, which allows me to focus on finishing documentation from yesterday. I will be wrapping up my Monday evening class next week and happy to get my evening time back. Despite the hustle and the sometimes-packed schedule, my heart is full of gratitude. This journey is one of growth, alignment, and purpose. Every day, I’m reminded that the leap of faith was worth it. Here’s to thriving, supporting others, and continuing to trust the process. ✨ My digital home is www.wellnessempowered.com- let me know if any of our services can benefit you or your organization.

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Today, on World Mental Health Day, I'm taking a moment to reflect on the vital importance of mental well-being. This day reinforces the message that our mental health is as essential as our physical health. More than 20 years ago, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), which set me on a path of self-discovery and growth. I've been fortunate to be able to navigate this challenge by embracing talk therapy and medication, tools that have helped me to manage and thrive. By sharing, I hope to underscore the significance of reaching out for help. Access to mental health services is a crucial lifeline and should be accessible to all. It’s okay to seek support; in fact, it's a brave step toward healing. World Mental Health Day is our opportunity to dismantle the stigma and discrimination. It's a day to pledge our support for open dialogue, to foster safe spaces, and to promote understanding and empathy. This year’s theme is mental health in the workplace. A US survey (by the American Psychological Association) found that 43% are worried that disclosing a mental health issue at work could have negative repercussions. If you aren’t already: it’s time to prioritize the promotion of your EAPs and encourage your people to take time off as needed. I’m thankful for the strides I've made and for the support systems that have been there for me. If you're facing mental health challenges, please remember, you’re not alone, and there’s hope. Let's join hands in breaking down barriers and ensuring mental health is given the attention and care it deserves. #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthAwareness #EndTheStigma #windsorDetroit #mentalhealthintheworkplace Photo: The skyline of Detroit, Michigan, from Windsor, Ontario, my hometown—still one of my favourite places to go to decompress, think, reflect and feel.

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I’m pleased to be opening the 2025 Summit on Disability Employment and Career Advancement Strategies hosted by the Canadian Council for Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW). This event is a vital opportunity to discuss how we can create a more inclusive and accessible workforce. Employment plays a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities, not only by providing financial independence but also by fostering a sense of purpose, belonging, and self-worth. The work we do today to break down barriers and advocate for equal opportunities will shape the future for generations to come. Reflecting on my own journey, I’ve experienced firsthand the toll that being asked to work for free can take on someone’s mental and emotional well-being. In the early days of my speaking and consulting career, I was asked to work for organizations that seemed to value my skills but were unwilling to provide fair compensation. A common practice within these communities. That experience was disheartening and had a significant impact on my confidence at the time. Today, such practices are no longer tolerated. And I would encourage that they not be tolerated by others. We need to advocate for fair pay and meaningful work, not just as a matter of equity, but as a foundation for a healthier, more inclusive society. I look forward to joining the CCRW and sharing insights at the 2025 summit as we work toward a future where all people, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to thrive in their careers.

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Are your job postings weeding out top talent? Joanna Goode, Executive Director of the Canadian Association For Supported Employment/ Association canadienne de soutien à l'emploi, makes a compelling point: subtle phrases in your job descriptions could be unintentionally discouraging qualified candidates with disabilities from applying. This article explores how seemingly simple requirements like "meeting all deadlines" or "must be a team player" can be misinterpreted by neurodivergent individuals. It highlights the importance of focusing on essential job requirements and using inclusive language. Here are some key takeaways for employers, inspired by Joanna Goode's insights: - Review your job descriptions: Focus on the core skills and experience needed for the role. - Avoid vague terms: Replace phrases like "excellent interpersonal skills" with specific examples of what success looks like in the role. - Be clear about accommodations: Don't just say you offer accommodations, showcase your commitment to an inclusive workplace. - Broaden your talent pool: Recognize the value that people with disabilities bring to your team. By making small changes to your job postings, you can open doors to a wider range of qualified candidates! #disabilityinclusion #hr #hiring #recruiting #neurodiversity

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The month of August will be a busy one for the team at Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN)! We have something for everyone! On Tuesday, August 13th, we are hosting a free session for #EmploymentServiceProviders to reintroduce the updated Jobs Ability Canada recruitment platform- you will learn how you can offer #JobSeekers who have a #Disability another option to connect them to inclusive employers. Event Link: https://lnkd.in/eAJT_fbZ On Tuesday, August 20, we are introducing a new project to our #EmploymentServiceProviders membership - #BeyondAODACompliance - Disability Inclusive Hiring. You will learn about tools we are developing so that you can offer them to your #business network and help them move beyond regulatory compliance. The event is free. Event Link: https://lnkd.in/ed6J58X5 And on Wednesday, August 21st, we will be running two training sessions: The first an #EmploymentServiceTraining for organizations offering employment supports for people who have a disability. Event Link: https://lnkd.in/euTvizRZ The second training session will be #DisabilityAwarenessAndConfidenceTraining for #EmploymentServiceProviders - training design for staff wanting to gain knowledge in order to be responsive to the broader abilities, competencies and needs of people who have a disability. Event Link: https://lnkd.in/eSRkAKtt Register for any or all of these events for an experience that blends engaging activities with invaluable networking and professional development. Don't miss out on the chance to gain insight that could transform the way you operate your #employment #services and impacts the lives of #JobSeekers who have a #Disability.

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I'm dying to get back to routine. As you get into your post-summer rhythms and drive toward the New Year make sure you're getting the right start. Join us for lunch and a conversation about your goals and momentum. #businessgrowth #businessowner #entrepreneur #goalsetting #leadership

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The job market is TOUGH right now, there is no doubt about it.   If you are searching for a job, make sure you are doing things that will help you to be successful, so that you have the best shot at landing your dream job, or at least the best practical option.    ➡ Do some self-reflection to better understand your interests, strengths, motivations, values. This will give you insights to your 'must haves' and 'nice to haves' for your best-fit future career. ➡ Prepare an elevator statement for when unexpected conversations pop up. Sure, mention what you are doing currently but also focus on what your are interested in or keen to learn more about. ➡ Invite someone to an informational interview and learn more about the field or profession you are interested in. Make sure you ask if they can introduce you to anyone else so you can learn more about opportunities that are the best fit.   Interested in discussing other strategies for success? I would love to chat. 🏆✨

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Struggling to fill your calendar this winter? You're not alone— A property owner in Saint John, NB, recently shared this challenge: "Had no bookings in November and half the month vacant in December now. Any ideas to boost bookings?" It’s a common struggle. The good news is there are simple strategies to turn things around. Updating your listing with cozy seasonal vibes to using AI-powered tools like PriceLabs for dynamic pricing, technology can help you stay competitive and attract winter travelers with ease. Here are 6 ways to make your property the ultimate winter escape: ✅ Highlight your destination’s unique appeal (think snowy trails or festive markets) ✅ Update your listing with seasonal photos and inviting language—AI tools can even help craft the perfect description ✅ Use social media and seasonal OTA updates to boost visibility ✅ Experiment with pricing strategies—AI tools analyze demand and trends for smarter rate adjustments ✅ Partner with local businesses for cross-promotions ✅ Gather feedback to uncover fresh ideas—AI-powered surveys can streamline this process Winter bookings don’t have to be frozen—try one of these strategies. What’s worked for you in the slow season? Drop your tips or let us know if you'd like help brainstorming. #HospitalityTips #VacationRentals #SlowSeasonStrategies #WinterBookings #smartpineapple

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Today, our Toronto office is wearing orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day honors the survivors of residential schools and the many lives impacted across generations in Canada’s Indigenous communities. The legacy of residential schools is a tragic one: every Indigenous person in this country is either a survivor or is one generation away from someone who endured the trauma of these institutions. More than 150,000 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children were taken from their families to attend these schools. The impacts of this history are still felt today, with Indigenous communities facing challenges such as higher rates of poverty, inadequate access to clean water, and systemic barriers to education and healthcare. As a business and as individuals, we have an obligation to reflect, learn, and support meaningful action. Today is not just about remembrance—it is about acknowledging our role in fostering reconciliation and committing to a better, more inclusive future for all. Together, we must listen, uplift, and advocate for change. #OrangeShirtDay #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #IndigenousRights #SupportHealing

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Information about life in Canada is plentiful, but finding the right information to help newcomers choose where to live, and informing them about the different opportunities, realities, and services outside of Canada’s most well-known destinations, can be a challenge. This workshop presents recent research aimed at informing migration communication activities in these areas. Drawing on surveys of established immigrants across Canada and recent immigrants to Quebec, the panelists discuss newcomers’ location choices, their information needs, and their access and utilization of services to support their integration. Participants are invited to share reflections and experiences, and join panelists in a discussion of the role of communication strategies in supporting settlement and retention outside of major urban centres. Presentations and Presenters: Learning from Newcomers about the Different Motives Behind Location Choices Colin Scott, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) How to Communicate about Opportunities in Canada: Understanding Immigrants’ Digital Behaviours and Needs Karissa Leduc Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Recent Immigrants’ Experiences with Integration Services: An Assessment of Access to Services Across the Province Thomas Gareau Paquette, McGill University This session was part of the Pathways to Prosperity 2023 Conference. https://lnkd.in/geRtZSeQ

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Have you heard about the recent lawsuit in Canada? This Black Class Action Lawsuit highlights concerns of systemic racism. The way employees are treated can impact your organization's reputation. Click the link for more details regarding this lawsuit https://lnkd.in/gJJ_4A_c #PeopleAndCulture #InclusiveLeadership #DiversityAndInclusion #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipDevelopment #EquityInTheWorkplace #BelongingAtWork #HRCommunity #InclusiveWorkplace #WorkplaceWellbeing #CorporateSocialResponsibility #CultureOfCare #DiversityMatters #FutureOfWork

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@indigenousprojectevents is a full service corporate event management company that specializes in Indigenous experiences. Thanks so much to @inspiregroupltd for being such leaders & advocates of Indigenous entrepreneurship and of our people. We were blessed to have been given an opportunity to help you bring your last two Indigenous events to fruition. Why do we do what we do? We do it because events is how we can help to shift perceptions of who we are to not just non-Indigenous peoples but within our own communities. With so much lateral violence, collaboration and doing these kinds of events with eachother and with other non-Indigenous peoples, brings us all together as one...for one purpose. To understand and support eachother. With our strong set of values, our mission and our vision, we believe in being of service to those who resonate with our values of Creativity, Culture, Collaboration, Innovation, & Honesty. Let's support each other and continue to create these amazing events, memories and experiences 🫶🏽🩷❤️💙 #indigenousbusiness #indigenouspeople #indigenousevents

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Enhance Your Onboarding Process to Retain Top Talent! 🌟 As recruiters, we recognize the significant impact of a positive onboarding experience on employee engagement and retention. A strong start sets the stage for long-term success, and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve exactly that! Retaining top talent is fundamental to any thriving business. With a robust onboarding process, you can effectively support new hires and elevate retention rates. Our FREE Onboarding Checklist assists you in crafting an outstanding onboarding experience from the ground up, ensuring you address all essentials right from day one. What’s Inside? ✔ Pre-Start Checklist: Essential steps for a smooth start before your new hire’s first day ✔ Embedding Company Values: Key strategies to foster a sense of belonging from day one ✔ Supporting L&D: How to facilitate their Learning & Development journey ✔ First Week Essentials: Crucial information to share for a successful first week Create a positive and engaging onboarding journey that leaves a lasting impression on your new hires. Download our FREE guide and start building a robust onboarding process today! 🚀 https://lnkd.in/gu_id4aP #Onboarding #TalentRetention #Recruitment #HR #EmployeeExperience #DownloadNow

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Since the "DEI industry" has been around for 5ish years now, with a flood of more DEI consultants entering this market, we are seeing a lot of inconsistent and questionable DEI practices being employed. [note that it existed before then but was elevated as a greater priority in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd, the findings of residential school grave sites, COVID-19, and once mainstream media coverage started reporting more frequently on human rights and equity-based workplace struggles] This exists in all industries, although many have a set of standards that practitioners must abide by, which the DEI industry still does not. I wrote this blog on why DEI certification matters! Some key points to consider when selecting one of the many DEI certification programs include: 🏆 Reputation and Accreditation - is it a reputable organization with a clear track record in DEI education? 📖 Curriculum and Content - does it cover a comprehensive range of topics? Is it beyond theory and does it include practical applications and tools? 💡 Faculty and Instructors - Do they have real-world demonstrated experience in successfully advancing DEI in workplaces? 🛠 Practical Application and Case Studies - Do they include hands-on learning opportunities? Practical exercises? Real-world case studies? 🌐 Networking and Community - You can't do DEI along, does the program include a community aspect? Mentorship and collaboration are key! 💰 Cost and Financial Aid - Does the cost provide good value? What is the ROI? Does it include equity-based pricing? ✅ Reviews and Testimonials - Are there past participants or alumni you could talk to? 🌟 Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Does the organization 'walk their talk?' I.e., are they putting into action what they are teaching? To learn more, read the blog, and check out Canadian Equality Consulting's Equitable & Inclusive Leadership Certification Program here: https://lnkd.in/gnA4fVEc https://lnkd.in/gyhehw3x #DEI #EDI #DEICertification #EDICertification #DiversityandInclusion #InclusionandBelonging #PeopleAndCulture #HR

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What a great way to start the week - letting you all know that a job has opened up working with me! Seriously, if you have experience in a member-based NFP, you like remote work, and possibly the idea of working with me is even remotely exciting - check out the job description below:

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Can't wait to speak next week at the CPHR BC & Yukon conference! I've been preparing for months, working to refine my presentation and make this year the best it can possibly be. It's so much fun finding how I can use my story and message to align to the goals and message within a team or organization. If you are looking for a speaker to deliver a keynote or workshop for your event, please reach out! #speaker #meetingsandevents #keynotespeaker #keynote #motivationalspeaker #inspirationalspeaker #mentalhealthspeaker #changemanagement #eventplanner #eventplanning #meetingplanner #conferencespeaker

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Neurodivergent people living in Canada continue to face barriers in all stages of employment – from recruitment and hiring, to career development and promotion. While a growing number of employers are eager to be more neuroinclusive, they might not know where to begin. This #DisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth (#DEAM) – in partnership with the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation – we’re sharing insights from our Neuroinclusive Employment Project on what practical steps employers can take to support inclusion and neuroinclusion. These actions, grounded in workplace studies and promising practices, can help build a more inclusive environment and support employees throughout their journey with your organization. Start Here 👉 Check out our latest Blog Post ✍️ highlighting why building a strong foundation is so important and steps organizations—at all levels, from leaders to managers, direct supervisors and frontline employees—can take to move from intention to action. Read "Starting with a Strong Foundation for Neuroinclusion" 🧱 here: https://lnkd.in/ghhfNdGr In partnership with the The Sinneave Family Foundation , the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation is conducting research to explore how employers can create more neuroinclusive workplaces. The research aims to identify evidence-based practices and real-world examples that help employers support neurodivergent people and people living with disabilities to uncover opportunities to further improve workplace inclusion. You can read the summary in its entirety here: https://lnkd.in/gjkSaJnx #BuildingAStrongFoundation #NeuroinclusionInTheWorkplace #NeurodiversityAtWork #InclusiveEmployers #InclusionMatters #StartHere

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