EQiSpace

Kareem Sadiq is a seasoned policy expert with over 14 years of experience in the Government of Canada, where he held Senior Analyst and Assistant Director roles. His extensive background includes 11 years in human resources, focusing on staffing policy and program analysts at various levels.

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As President & CEO and Board Chair of EQiSpace, Kareem brings immense value through his expertise in developing federal policies and programs. He has made significant contributions to initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness, promoting equity, and fostering the inclusion of racialized individuals, immigrants, refugees, and people with disabilities in Canadian society.

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Kareem played a pivotal role in renewing Canada’s federal homelessness program, establishing plans and priorities for its knowledge development initiative. He collaborated with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, healthcare providers, and NGOs to enhance the delivery of healthcare benefits to resettled refugees. With Canada’s Office for Disability Issues, Kareem developed and implemented a National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace and produced a Federal Disability Reference Guide, aiding officials in considering the needs of people with disabilities in policy and program development.

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His extensive experience includes recruiting program and policy analysts, providing policy advice, managing multiracial teams, and overseeing multimillion-dollar project budgets.

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After experiencing targeted workplace racism, Kareem left the Canadian government in 2018. His lived experience with systemic racism positions him uniquely to advocate for and implement practical workplace equity solutions at EQiSpace.

 

Anne Cole brings over 25 years of hands-on experience as a front-line Disability Support Worker and Supervisor with the Ottawa Carleton Association for People with Developmental Disabilities (OCAPDD). Her extensive background has provided her with a deep understanding of the essential services and supports required to help people with disabilities fully participate in community life.

Anne is a strong advocate and proponent of community partnerships. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in linking Ontario Community and Social Services programs with local community partners, including employment programs. Her efforts have ensured that individuals supported by OCAPDD receive the necessary help to thrive.

In her current role as the Coordinator of Volunteers for OCAPDD, Anne continues to showcase her leadership and partnership-building skills. She is responsible for the recruitment, engagement, and supervision of volunteers across various community programs, playing a pivotal role in enhancing OCAPDD’s impact.

Anne's commitment to social justice is deeply rooted in her personal family history. Her grandparents' survival of Auschwitz is a powerful testament to her family's resilience, and serves as a constant reminder of the importance of fighting against injustice and inequity. This legacy fuels Anne's passion for creating inclusive spaces where every individual is valued and respected.

Anne will be instrumental in advising EQiSpace on its efforts to ensure that people with disabilities are equitably represented in the labour market.