we are
paradigm shifts
crafters of more inclusive practices and policies
facilitators of difficult conversations
creators of safer spaces
enablers of more equitable interactions
designers of new approaches to equity
crafters of more inclusive practices and policies
At Paradigm Shifts, we support organizations, groups, and communities in pursuing greater equity through expanding their knowledge of equity principles, strengthening their equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles and practices, and applying these principles to their relationships and environments. We approach your organizational challenges through an equity-centric lens. We encourage productive discomfort as we work with you and your teams to shift your thinking about situations, experiences, your work, and the world around you, so that inclusion and equity ground every decision you make. We tailor our services to your EDI goals and will help you expand your learning and understanding, recognizing that where you are at may differ from your coworker, your leader, and your company as a whole. We employ various mediums and methodologies, including EDI training, instructional resources, small or large group discussion planning and facilitation, review of organizational policies and procedures, and strategic visioning, to build understanding. Wherever in your EDI journey you're at (including if you're just starting out), we're here to help.
we believe that fostering equity and justice cultivates the best in human beings and builds stronger communities
what we offer
professional development and educational workshops

Customized creation and facilitation of sessions that explore key principles of equity, informed by your organization’s goals, current equity-related challenges, and employee demographics/psychographics

leadership coaching

Based on your needs, one-on-one or small group coaching designed for senior leadership executives or teams to deepen understanding of and fashion solutions for equity-related challenges

review of organizational policies and procedures

A comprehensive audit of your policies, procedures, and practices using an equity lens, followed by tailored recommendations on fostering a more equitable organizational culture

stakeholder consultations and focus group facilitation

Consultations with key stakeholders and facilitation of small or large group conversations around key principles of equity and other equity-related challenges both within and outside the organizational context

resource development

Customized creation of synchronous and asynchronous learning materials to support your organization’s efforts towards greater inclusion and equity

organizational strategic visioning and planning

Based on your organization’s needs, creation and facilitation of a visioning and planning process that centres equity, intended for leadership teams, governing boards, and other key stakeholders

our work
  • Aga Khan Museum
  • Canadian Association for Pharmacy in the Environment
  • City of London, Ontario
  • FOCUS Humanitarian Assistance
  • Massey College, University of Toronto
Co-Founder
Photo of Dr. Shelina Kassam
Dr. Shelina Kassam is a critical race scholar and sociologist whose research concentrates on critical race theory and social justice. She holds a PhD from the University of Toronto and a MA from McGill. She has taught in the Division of Women and Gender Studies at the University of Toronto Mississauga and in the Gender and Feminist Research program at McMaster University. In her previous professional life, Shelina has held senior leadership positions in social justice and education organizations, both in Canada and internationally. Among other positions, she was Director of an international Teacher Education program affiliated with the Aga Khan Development Network, Director of Policy and Programming at the International Development Education Resource Association (IDERA) in Vancouver, and Executive Director of the Saskatoon Open Door Society, an immigrant settlement agency. She also worked with the Institute of Ismaili Studies in the United Kingdom, where she developed a Humanities-based curriculum and led teacher education initiatives. Throughout her life, Shelina has been an engaged volunteer in both national and international organizations.
(she/her)
Co-Founder
Photo of  Shazya Ladak
Shazya Ladak is a passionate and creative marketer who brings an equitable and inclusive lens to her work. She is currently the Director of Marketing Strategy at a boutique Toronto-based marketing and communications company that she has helped grow since 2015. Shazya's most recent community work includes holding the inaugural position of National Convener for Diversity & Inclusion on the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board Canada. She also works as a consultant on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Shazya holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Queen's University and an MBA from the University of Toronto.
meet the team
interested in working together?
we'd love to hear from you!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
© 2024 Paradigm Shifts™