Welcome to a Future-Focused DEI Learning Experience
In a rapidly evolving workforce landscape, organizations must do more than simply acknowledge diversity—they must actively embed equity and inclusion into their culture and practices. This dual-presentation series brings together leading voices in DEI strategy and employment law to provide a comprehensive look at how to attract, retain, and support a diverse workforce. Asha Rampersad (Turnpenney Milne) offers practical legal insights into equitable hiring, accommodation, and the risks posed by AI in recruitment, while Anya Klimbovskai (Diversio) reframes DEI as a strategic business imperative amid rising external pressures. Together, these sessions offer HR professionals and organizational leaders actionable tools, legal grounding, and data-driven strategies to future-proof their inclusion efforts and build workplaces where everyone can thrive.
1 - Attracting and Retaining a Diverse Workforce - Asha Rampersad - Turnpenney Milne
Workplaces that welcome and embrace diversity are better positioned tap-in to talent pools of new Canadians, workers from historically marginalized groups, and the next generation of workers, who value diverse, inclusive workplaces. Using recent legal decisions, session leaders and participants will explore adjustments workplaces need to make to attract and retain an increasingly diverse workforce. Attention will also be paid to accommodating employees with family obligations (including addressing requests to work from home) and concerns that employer use of artificial intelligence may perpetuate discrimination in hiring processes.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand legal principles related to workplace equity, including the test for discrimination in hiring
- Learn best practices for recruiting and hiring equitably
- Appreciate the benefits of recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce
2 - Reframing DEI: A Business Imperative in a Changing Landscape - Anya Klimbovskai - Diversio
In today’s shifting political and economic climate, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have come under increased scrutiny. Yet the business case for DEI remains as compelling as ever. In this session, we’ll explore how HR professionals can champion inclusive workplace strategies that drive measurable results—even as external pressures grow. Using real data and examples, we’ll unpack how DEI directly impacts attrition, retention, and organizational performance. We’ll also discuss strategies for adapting your language and programming to maintain impact without inviting unnecessary backlash. Whether you’re navigating resistance or scaling your DEI efforts, this session will equip you with insights and tactics to lead with confidence.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand how inclusive workplace practices improve employee retention, engagement, and performance—with key statistics and case study examples.
- Learn how to frame DEI in ways that align with broader business priorities, minimizing risk in politically sensitive environments.
- Gain practical tools for adapting and sustaining DEI initiatives in the face of backlash, fatigue, or leadership hesitation.
AGENDA
8:00am-9:00am Registration & Breakfast
VIRTUAL STARTS HERE: 8:30am-10am Attracting and Retaining a Diverse Workforce – Asha Rampersad – Turnpenney Milne LLP
10:00-10:15am Break
10:15am-11:45am Reframing DEI: A Business Imperative in a Changing Landscape – Anya Klimbovskai - Diversio
11:45-noon Wrap-up
Registration Difficulties or Questions: Please reach out to Tracey Gallacher, Specialist, Member Engagement