Maria Zhartovska had never intended to immigrate to Canada, but everything changed in 2022 when Russia invaded her home country of Ukraine. 

Despite more than 15 years of experience working as a political journalist in Kyiv, her first months in Canada were challenging. She searched for local work while continuing to write for Ukrainian media, and quickly realized that language barriers were a new obstacle she’d have to overcome. 

“My English wasn’t strong enough,” she explains. “Even roles in the non-profit sector felt out of reach.”

Fortunately around the same time, Internews Ukraine launched a program supported by the Swedish government to help journalists gain new skills or shift career paths.

“I received a grant and chose two short courses at the School of Continuing Studies,” says Zhartovska. “Foundations of Multimedia Storytelling and Leading Projects in Organizations felt like the right foundation for rebuilding my professional life in a new country.”

While Zhartovska says she learned several pivotal lessons from her time at SCS, the most meaningful was discovering the strength of teamwork in a multicultural environment. 

“Education in Canada is very different from Ukraine, and collaboration here plays a much larger role,” she elaborates.

In her storytelling course, she and her classmates created Mosaic Media, a project focused on Ukrainians who arrived in Canada through the CUAET program. This collaboration left a lasting impression. 

“I was touched that people from different backgrounds wanted to work on something so personal to me. It showed how diversity enriches storytelling. 

Zhartovska notes that in both her project management and storytelling courses, her instructors brought years of real-world experience to the classroom. Their practical examples and case studies helped her understand how Canadian audiences engage with media and how organizations manage teams and timelines. 

“There was a lot of hands-on work, which was challenging because of my English, but I felt supported throughout,” she says. 

“My instructors and classmates offered thoughtful feedback and created an atmosphere of respect. Learning felt like an exchange rather than a lecture, and that made a huge difference.”

After finishing the courses, Zhartovska continued her job search and shared her experiences on social media. A Ukrainian entrepreneur reached out to her, and the two discovered they shared a similar concern. There was no platform designed to tell the stories of Ukrainians building businesses abroad.

Together they launched the Yellow Blue Business Platform (YBBP), an online space designed to highlight Ukrainian entrepreneurs around the world, build connections, and foster a sense of belonging among those starting over in new countries.

“For me, YBBP is more than a media project,” Zhartovska says. 

“It is a community for people who have two homes: one where they were born and one where they are building their future. We highlight Ukrainian entrepreneurs, share their experiences, and help them grow in global markets. I believe that stories of resilience and talent deserve to be heard because they not only inspire but also drive real change.”

Today the YBBP team includes 12 people living across Ukraine, Europe, the US, and Canada. They produce stories, visuals, photography, and podcasts. Many team members are navigating migration challenges or continue to live in Ukraine under regular attacks. 

“The project management course taught me how to support a team like this and work across cultures and time zones. The storytelling course helped me understand how audiences in Canada consume media differently than in Ukraine. These insights shaped the core of our platform.”

The success of the platform means that Zhartovska has had the opportunity to witness many Ukrainian entrepreneurs achieve their goals. 

“Discovering stories and watching people grow is the most rewarding part. 

She points to the example of Bob Snail, a healthy snack brand that recently entered the Canadian market.

“We interviewed CEO Dmytro Shugaiev and followed how the company built distribution in Canada while keeping production in Ukraine,” she shares

“Stories like this remind me why we created YBBP. Ukrainians everywhere carry two homes in their hearts, and seeing how they build new lives while staying connected to their roots is incredibly inspiring.”

As for her own journey, Zhartovska says she’s not finished learning, and she encourages anyone else considering expanding their knowledge and skills at SCS to seize the opportunity. 

“Don’t hesitate. Explore the programs carefully and choose something that speaks to you,” she says. 

“I’m already considering more courses. One that interests me is Decolonizing Journalism: Changing the Narrative, which explores topics rarely discussed in Ukrainian education, such as Indigenous histories, Black experiences, and the Francophone world. It feels important for anyone working with stories and media.”

If you’re ready to strengthen your communication skills or take on new leadership responsibilities, explore the Multimedia Storytelling and Leading Projects in Organizations courses at the School of Continuing Studies.

Major facilities and services initiatives at the University of Toronto (U of T) require a unique combination of technical expertise and strategic understanding. For mechanical engineer Al Amin, who supports several of these projects, it became clear that strengthening his knowledge of energy systems would help him perform his role more effectively. 

The U of T School of Continuing Studies (SCS) Energy Management certificate offered exactly the kind of structured, in-depth training he was seeking. 

“I support several major initiatives, including Project LEAP, Project RISE, and the King’s College Circle geoexchange system,” he explains. “The certificate felt like the right way to connect my day-to-day responsibilities with the bigger sustainability goals of the university.”

Amin was particularly interested in understanding the “why” behind the design and operational decisions he encounters in his work. 

“The program exceeded my expectations by giving me a fuller picture of energy economics, building systems, and Canada’s energy landscape,” he says. “It helped me connect theory to what I see every day in our capital projects.”

The Energy Management courses at SCS offered the perfect balance of technical topics, policy, economics, best practices, and real case studies with a practical and organized approach, says Amin. “The lessons on commissioning, energy economics, and Canadian energy trends stood out the most,” he adds. 

“They helped me understand both the technical and policy sides of energy management. The OISE building assignments that walked through real audit-style thinking were especially useful because I could relate them to challenges in large institutional projects.”

Amin’s classmates brought a variety of perspectives from utilities, engineering firms, municipalities, and operations teams. Hearing about their experiences helped him to understand how similar energy challenges show up in different sectors. He says their questions and examples made discussions richer and more grounded in real scenarios.

The skills and knowledge Amin gained in his classes have changed the way he participates in project coordination. “Now I approach design reviews, shutdown planning, and operations discussions with a stronger understanding of energy implications,” he explains. “I can communicate better with design consultants and operators, and I can see how my small role contributes to sustainability goals across campus.”

In terms of his career prospects, Amin says his confidence and his awareness of where his skills could take him have expanded significantly since completing the certificate. 

“I now see energy management, sustainability planning, and commissioning as areas I would enjoy contributing to more in the future. It also made me feel more confident supporting U of T’s major low-carbon projects,” he says. 

“The program helped me connect my daily work to the bigger energy and sustainability picture at U of T. It made me a better communicator, a better coordinator, and more aware of how every project decision affects long-term performance.”

Learn more about the Energy Management Certificate at the U of T School of Continuing Studies and explore how you can advance your skills in sustainability and energy systems.

From an early age, Safayat Moahamad was intrigued by AI and cybersecurity. As he grew up and explored these areas, privacy emerged as a natural fit for his interests and legal background, but he struggled to find a program that delved into the skills and knowledge he wanted to develop. 

“When the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) launched the Privacy Management in Digital Enterprise certificate, it was exactly what I’d been looking for,” he says. 

“When I started the program, I wanted to understand the day-to-day reality of a privacy professional, something I didn't have full visibility into. That insight proved invaluable, allowing me to hit the ground running in my first role. But the most important lesson I took away was the need for a constant learning mindset. Privacy, and the disciplines it touches like AI and Cyber, are evolving at an incredible pace. Staying relevant means embracing continuous learning as part of the job.”

Moahamad’s course instructors brought the industry into the classroom, sharing real-world examples, current events, and regulatory updates.

“Their approach was highly practical. Assignments mirrored real work, from strategy hypotheses to PIAs, and even preparing board-level executive presentations. In fact, I still apply each of these concepts in my day-to-day work,” he says. “They were also exceptionally accessible, both during and after the program. We’ve collaborated on special projects since graduating, and intend to keep working for the privacy cause, closely.”

This practical approach to teaching ensured learners like Moahamad could immediately apply the new skills and knowledge gained in class to help them start or advance their careers. 

“The SCS courses were pivotal in launching my career. I started as a Privacy Analyst at BMW Canada immediately after completing the program, and the skills I gained were critical in demonstrating my technical abilities during the interview and executing my mandates with confidence from day one,” Moahamad explains. 

Beyond what he learned in class, Moahamad also had the opportunity to build a strong professional network with the help of his instructors. Amalia Barthel introduced him to fellow SCS instructor Carlos Chalico. Together they went on to develop a Privacy Mentoring Program at ISACA Toronto. That collaboration later opened the door to a privacy consulting role on his team at EY Canada.

Encouraged by his instructors, Moahamad remains deeply engaged with professional communities. Since completing his SCS courses, he has gone on to earn the CIPM and AIGP designations from the IAPP. 

“These milestones have been possible with the support and mentorship I received from Amalia, Constantine Karbaliotis, and Carlos,” he says. 

Currently a Research & Advisory Director at Info-Tech Research Group, where he works closely with C-suite executives, senior leaders, and technical teams to advance privacy, cybersecurity, data and AI governance programs, Moahamad says the skills he learned at SCS are embedded in almost every engagement he leads. 

“The strategy hypothesis methodology, in particular, has been invaluable. I have applied the methodology to design an AI Compliance Strategy Framework, which I later co-presented with Amalia and Carlos at the IAPP Canada Privacy Symposium 2025. The program didn’t just give me tools, it gave me a structured way of thinking that I use daily,” he adds. 

For anyone hoping to get into the field of cybersecurity and privacy, Moahamad says that in addition to being fluent in governance, risk, and compliance, having a learning mindset is key to thriving. He adds that contributing to community initiatives can set you apart and that IAPP, ISACA, and DAMA are excellent places to start.

“New beginnings rely on strong support systems, and UofT SCS gave me exactly that. The instructors brought deep expertise and genuine mentorship, guiding me through a curriculum that mirrored real-world challenges. That foundation gave me the capability to step into my first privacy role and build a career at the intersection of data, cybersecurity, and AI governance.” Moahamad says. 

“For me, SCS wasn’t just a place to learn, it was the launchpad for everything that came next.”

Visit our Privacy Management in the Digital Enterprise page to learn more about this certificate and its related courses. 

Visit our Cyber Security Management page to learn more about our cybersecurity certificate and courses.

Karan Saraf has a clear vision for his career. He sees his future self as a Chief Communications Officer, and he’s not just dreaming about it; he’s working towards it at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS). 

A natural communicator and problem-solver, it was only after moving to Canada and taking a professional writing course in 2021 that Saraf realized he could hone his gift for communication into a sought-after skill, and a career. 

Now, he’s stacking the deck further in his favour by attending Strategic Public Relations courses at SCS. 

“I got my first role as a Communications Coordinator at Humber College, mostly working in internal comms. It was a great start, but I knew I wanted to grow into a strategic leadership role — one where I could shape stories, build trust, and lead,” he shares. 

“That’s why I took this course. I want to become a Chief Communications Officer someday, and this program is helping me get there. Honestly, it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

Taking these classes has challenged Saraf’s previous understanding of the role of Public Relations (PR) and communications, from the fact that the best crisis communication starts long before the crisis, to the importance of understanding how to use emerging AI tools effectively and ethically.

“In our Public Relations: Advanced Practices and Case Studies class, we had a discussion about reputation management. One line really stuck with me: ‘If you manage your reputation well, you won’t have to manage a crisis.’ That hit home,” he says.

“It made me realize that great PR isn’t just about reacting, it’s about being consistent and intentional every day. If you’ve built trust with your audience, they’ll give you the benefit of the doubt when something goes wrong. Reputation isn’t just what you say, it’s what you’ve already shown people through your actions. That’s been a big shift in my thinking. That mindset will stay with me throughout my career.”

Saraf says his SCS instructors have gone above and beyond to ensure he and his classmates are able to put into practice what they’re learning in the classroom. 

“The instructors have been amazing — they don’t just teach theory, they make sure we understand how to apply it in the real world. The feedback I’ve received has helped me grow, especially when it comes to thinking more strategically and seeing the big picture,” he explains.

In addition to his SCS instructors’ wealth of knowledge, for Saraf connecting with his peers in the classroom was one of the most rewarding parts of attending class.

“Everyone comes from different industries and backgrounds, which brings so many fresh perspectives,” he explains.

“We’ve shared ideas, job leads, and lots of encouragement. It feels like a real community, not just a class.”

For anyone on the fence about taking Strategic Public Relations courses or working towards the Strategic Public Relations Certificate at SCS, Saraf has some words of encouragement: “If you’re on the fence — go for it,” he says. 

“This program isn’t just about learning PR tactics, it’s about growing into the kind of communicator who leads with confidence. Whether you’re switching careers or levelling up, it gives you the skills and support to move forward.”

To learn more about SCS Strategic Public Relations certificate and courses, please visit our program page.

Each year, the Penguin Random House Canada Student Award for Fiction is awarded to an SCS creative writing learner whose work and commitment to creative expression inspires us. This year’s first place prize has been awarded to Laura Reznick.

Two prizes have also been awarded to this year's runners-up: Zhirong Chen and Joanne Lam.

WINNER ($2,500 PRIZE):

Laura Reznick, The Therapist

Laura Reznick is a social worker and has a private therapy practice in Toronto. She spent most of her life in New York and holds a BA from Kenyon College in English literature, and an MFA in poetry from Hunter College. She began a PhD program in English literature at the CUNY Graduate Center before deciding to leave academia to become a therapist. She lives with her husband, three children, and a very loud puppy. She is currently working on her first novel. 

HONOURABLE MENTIONS ($1,000 PRIZE EACH):

Zhirong Chen, 4096

Zhirong Chen moved to Canada from South China at eighteen and now lives in Toronto. She spent her childhood buried in books and scribbling stories of her own. At ten, she declared—on national children’s television, no less— that she wanted to be a writer. She hasn’t stopped since. With a background in engineering and science, Zhirong works in data and regulatory roles for the Government of Canada. She writes fiction in the quiet hours between careers, languages, and time zones. 

Joanne Lam, Queen Mother

Joanne Lam was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to Canada with her parents when she was eleven. Since she was a child, she has loved using her imagination. She is a registered architect and co-founder of Picnic Design, an architecture and interior design firm based in Toronto. In both her design work and her writing, she is interested in weaving the past and present into the creation of future stories.
 

The Penguin Random House Canada Student Award for Fiction is an endowed award open to all learners who have taken a creative writing course at SCS in the previous year.

Established in 2002, this award is valued at $2,500, plus two finalist awards of $1,000 each annually.

Congratulations to this year’s finalists, who have demonstrated impressive talent, creativity and hard work. Winners and Honourable Mentions will be announced soon!

FINALISTS

Jan Allen, Winter Grasses
David Chau, The Boy and the Vending Machine
Zhirong Chen, 4096
Stephen Joanes, Somewhere Inside 
Joanne Lam, The Queen Mother
Sarah Moses, Cecilia
Laura Reznick, The Therapist
Oriana Schwartzentruber, A Steep Becoming 
Dan Tamblyn, Old Friends 
Ruth Taylor, Halfway

As a recent newcomer to Canada seeking professional opportunities, business analyst Deepti Gupta wanted to ensure her skills remained sharp and aligned with current Canadian industry standards. 

This desire brought her to the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, where she registered for courses in the school’s Business Analysis program. 

“My primary goal was to bridge the gap between my prior experience as a Business Analyst and the expectations of the Canadian job market. I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of local business practices, methodologies, and tools commonly used in Canada,” she explains. 

When one of her courses included a group project, Gupta saw an opportunity to take a deep dive into a topic close to her heart. 

“My husband has been living with diabetes for over 15 years and relies on a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) device to manage his condition. I have observed how he frequently has to check his phone to monitor his glucose levels, which can be inconvenient, especially in the middle of daily tasks,” she says.

“I saw an opportunity to explore how wearable technology could integrate the CGM functionality in a more seamless, user-friendly way. This idea was not only inspired by real-life experience but also driven by the desire to create a solution that improves quality of life for people like my husband.”

So, the group got to work, conducting research and applying business analysis techniques and frameworks like context diagrams, process models, gap analysis, key performance indicators and SWOT analysis to structure the problem, identify opportunities, and propose a viable solution. 

“One of the main challenges we encountered during the project was navigating the complexity of healthcare technology, particularly the feasibility of integrating no-invasive glucose monitoring into wearable device like the Apple Watch,” Gupta shares. 

“Since none of us came from a medical or engineering background, we had to invest significant time researching scientific studies, patent filings, and emerging tech trends to ensure our proposal was both innovative and realistic.”

Gupta happily reports that she and her group received positive and encouraging feedback from both peers and instructors about the project. She also says that taking Business Analysis courses at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies provided her with the foundational knowledge and practical tools she needed to confidently approach such a future-focused and tech-driven topic. 

“Through courses like Foundations of Business Analysis, and Business Analysis Tools and Techniques, I gained hands-on experience with frameworks such as context diagram, process model, user stories and gap analysis. These tools allowed me to break down complex systems like healthcare wearables and translate high level concepts into actionable insights,” she explains.

“The structured approach of the program, combined with real-world assignments and collaborative projects, helped me feel more confident tackling emerging technology topics, even those outside my core background. It encouraged me to be curious, do in-depth research, and think strategically, qualities that are essential for any business analyst working in a fast-evolving tech landscape.”

In addition to bolstering her confidence and expanding her skill set, the program, and her wearable tech project have changed the way Gupta sees business analysis and its potential to help shape the world we live in. It plays a critical role in identifying innovation opportunities, aligning business goals with technology, and delivering customer-centric solutions.

“I saw how a business analyst can bridge technical possibilities (like health integrations and wearable tech) with market demands and user needs. It taught me that business analysis can drive not only operational efficiency but also strategic growth, innovation, and meaningful customer engagement,” she adds.

“This project also emphasized the importance of systems thinking, cross-functional collaboration, and the use of data and KPIs to validate business decisions. It has inspired me to see business analysis as a change enabler, not just a support function.”

Gupta says she’s already been able to apply her newly updated skills acquired through the SCS program in her current role as an administrative assistant at SIM Toronto. 

“I am using various BA techniques to understand the organization’s structure, stakeholder responsibilities, and current state operations. My focus has been on helping the team define their future state and offering potential solutions to improve internal processes and strategic alignment,” she explains.  

“By analyzing gaps and facilitating discussions, I’ve been supporting SIM Toronto in clarifying their goals and moving toward a more structured and efficient framework.”

Having completed Business Analysis Foundations and Tools and Techniques of Business Analysis, Gupta is currently enrolled in Leadership in Business Analysis in an effort to strengthen her strategic and leadership capabilities in the field. Looking ahead, she also plans to pursue Project Management courses to complement her business analysis skills and broaden her professional opportunities. 

Learning business analysis skills has been a transformative journey for Gupta, who stresses that the role is about more than tools and techniques. 

“It’s about thinking strategically, solving real problems, and making a meaningful impact. Whether you're starting a new career or looking to strengthen your existing skills, business analysis gives you a strong foundation to grow, lead, and create value. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to explore new opportunities,” she suggests. 

And for fellow newcomers to Canada, Gupta recommends taking advantage of the networking opportunities that come about through SCS courses as well. “Engaging with peers, attending events, and having personal conversations with professionals has helped me understand the local work culture, expand my network, and gain confidence,” she says. 

“These genuine connections have guided and supported me in my journey, and I encourage others, especially newcomers, to actively seek out these opportunities. It truly makes a difference.”

To learn more about SCS Business Analysis courses and certificates, please visit our program page. 

We are pleased to announce the winners of the inaugural Pal Saqi and Catherine B. Fogarty awards.

The Pal Saqi Award for Fiction supports emerging writers by providing $2000 annually to a Creative Writing Certificate learner with the most outstanding final project. 

The $2000 Catherine B. Fogarty Award celebrates excellence in creative non-fiction and aims to inspire emerging writers to share powerful true stories that deepen our understanding of the world around us. 

Meet the talented winners of this year’s awards, Diana Catargiu and Nancy O’Rourke:

We extend our thanks to the juries for their time and thoughtful consideration:

Pal Saqi Award Jury:

Karen Brochu, Publisher, House of Anansi Press

Hilary Lo, Assistant Editor, Knopf Canada and Alchemy

Leah Mol, Associate Editor, Park Row Books, Harper Collins Canada.

Catherine B. Fogarty Award Jury:

Amanda Betts, Executive Editor, Simon & Schuster, Canada

Meghan Macdonald, Publisher, Dundurn Press

Jancie Zawerbny, Editor, Harper Collins Canada
 

Each year, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies honours exceptional instructors who exemplify the highest standards of teaching in adult education. The SCS Excellence in Teaching Awards are inspired by nominations from learners who recognize instructors that have gone above and beyond to create engaging, meaningful, and supportive learning experiences.

“These educators do more than share knowledge; they spark curiosity, inspire confidence, and empower learners to reach their full potential,” says SCS Dean Catherine Chandler-Crichlow. “Their unwavering dedication to student success and passion for lifelong learning is truly inspiring. We are proud to recognize and celebrate their remarkable contributions to our community.”

The Excellence in Teaching Award winners for the 2023–2024 academic year are:

Hamideh Bastani-Parizi – Business and Professional Studies 
Learners praise Bastani-Parizi for her patience in sharing her wealth of engineering knowledge and her willingness to go above and beyond to help them meet their goals of finding Canadian employment through the successful completion of a Professional Engineering Exam. Their one complaint? They wish they had even more time with her.  

Jim Lewis – Business and Professional Studies
Jim Lewis is described by learners as an exceptionally dedicated instructor who creates an engaging and supportive learning environment in his Records & Information Management Strategies classroom. His ability to bring real-life examples into the classroom, drawn from his many years of professional experience, helps learners to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, and his passion for his subject is contagious.

Marcia O’Connor – Business and Professional Studies
Learners say that Marcia O’Connor’s teaching has a profound impact on both their personal and professional growth. While sharing her vast experience in Facilities Management, she takes a kind, caring, and humour-filled approach to teaching, and instills in learners the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and integrity.

Kevin Temple - Arts and Science
Kevin Temple is described as a passionate, knowledgeable, and open-minded instructor by learners in his Philosophy courses. He encourages respectful, lively discussion, and challenges learners to see the deep issues in politics in a way that allows them to understand the news and to participate in civic life more thoughtfully.

Patricia Westerhof – Creative Writing
Learners describe Patricia Westerhof as a kind, positive, and dedicated instructor and mentor with a gift for putting her Creative Writing class participants at ease in what can be a vulnerable space for emerging writers. She fosters a sense of community in her classroom, and challenges learners to step out of their comfort zones to create meaningful work.

Soonae Bac – Languages and Translation
Soonae Bac has an infectious enthusiasm for the Korean language that her learners pick up on immediately. In addition to sharing her impressive knowledge in an engaging manner, they share that she also models integrity, empathy, and respect, creating a classroom atmosphere where learners feel valued and motivated.

Michelle McAdorey – Outstanding New Instructor 
With impressive knowledge and experience, Michelle McAdorey leads her Songwriting classes with a style and passion all her own, say learners. She creates a classroom environment that is safe, connective, and brimming with creativity, ensuring her learners feel worthy, respected and eager to share.

Tiziano Vanola – Online Teaching
Tiziano Vanola is described by learners as a patient, humorous and passionate Italian Language instructor. He is engaging, clear, and thorough when explaining concepts and answering questions. Learners who initially had reservations about online learning find that they are progressing faster than they thought possible in his classes. 

Shafi Bhuiyan – Career Impact
Learners from Shafi Bhuiyan’s Healthcare classes describe him as a passionate and dedicated instructor who goes above and beyond to help them reach their goals. He is innovative, adaptable, and keeps current with the latest skills and knowledge his learners need to succeed in their careers.

Congratulations to all of this year’s inspiring winners!

We are thrilled to announce the winners of the final Marina Nemat Award, honouring the most promising learners to complete the Creative Writing Certificate at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.

This year’s award spotlighted poetry and fantasy writing, two genres that exemplify the depth and imagination of our program’s vibrant creative community. From lyrical meditations on memory and identity to richly imagined journeys across time and worlds, the shortlisted projects demonstrated the exceptional talent nurtured by our learners.

Congratulations to the 2025 Marina Nemat Award recipients:

We extend our thanks to the juries for their time and thoughtful consideration:

Poetry Jury:
Michael Holmes, Executive Editor, ECW Press
Elizabeth Philips, Editorial Director, Thistledown Press
Vanessa Stauffer, Managing Editor, Biblioasis

Fantasy Jury:
Lara Hinchberger, Executive Editor, Penguin Canada
M.C. Joudrey, Writer and Publisher, At Bay Press
A.G.A. Wilmot, Writer and Editor

At the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS), accessibility isn’t just a checkbox. It is a core value that guides our approach to education. We believe learning should be inclusive, supportive, and empowering for everyone who comes through our virtual or physical doors. That’s why we’ve taken intentional steps to remove barriers and foster environments where everyone can thrive. 

SCS Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Amanda Weaver shares five ways SCS is making learning more accessible for all: 

1. Embedding Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Principles

   We design our courses with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in mind, which means building flexibility into the learning experience from the start. This includes offering multiple ways to engage with content, demonstrate understanding, and stay motivated. UDL helps us support a wide range of learning needs and preferences, creating an inclusive and effective learning experience for everyone

2. Fostering Inclusive and Respectful Learning Environments

   We are committed to creating spaces that are free from discrimination and harassment. This includes the way we design course content, how we onboard and work with instructors, and how we facilitate interaction among learners. Our goal is to remove barriers and cultivate a sense of belonging so that all learners feel welcome and supported.

3. Encouraging Dialogue and Respect for Lived Experiences

   Learning at SCS is a shared journey, and we believe it is our collective responsibility to engage with one another with inclusivity and respect. We create opportunities for learners to share their perspectives and experiences, striving to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. This helps us build a stronger, more connected learning community.

4. Providing Personalized Support and Academic Accommodations

   Every learner is different, and we recognize that success looks different for each individual. That is why we offer a variety of support services and academic accommodations, including accessibility services. We are here to help our learners meet their goals, by ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed.

5. Advancing Access Through Our New Accessibility Plan

   Our accessibility plan reflects our commitment to continuous improvement in access and learner success. The plan outlines how we are implementing the latest Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) postsecondary guidelines, from inclusive teaching practices to proactive programs and services. It aligns with our purpose: to strengthen human potential one individual, one organization, one community at a time.

Explore how SCS can support your goals and help you thrive in an inclusive learning environment by visiting our EDI page.

The finalists of the inaugural University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies Pal Saqi Award for Fiction have been announced. Established by author and SCS learner Rajinderpal S. Pal, and named in honour of his father, the Pal Saqi Award for Fiction provides $2000 annually to a Creative Writing Certificate learner with the most outstanding final project. The award’s recipients are selected by a panel of Canadian publishing industry professionals.

This year’s Pal Saqi Award for Fiction finalists are: 
 

T.M.B. Park grew up in Saskatchewan and wrote her first short story at the age of 8 on a cutting edge electric typewriter. She happily pursued her U of T creative writing certificate while defending journalists and other creatives as a media and entertainment lawyer and travelling the world. She now balances motherhood and writing in rural Ontario.

She sums up her collection this way: "These stories mostly focus on youngish women who believe they are complicated but who actually take simple comfort in delusion as an antidote to solitude. They have familiar small town Canadian backgrounds but also a worldliness and appreciation for poetic gestures which informs the mini acts of rebellion they often engage in. They are not likeable or sensible, but I hope they are interesting."
 

This year’s jury is comprised of: Karen Brochu, Publisher, House of Anansi Press; Hilary Lo, Assistant Editor, Knopf Canada and Alchemy; and Leah Mol, Associate Editor, Park Row Books, Harper Collins Canada.

For more information about the Pal Saqi Award for Fiction, please visit the SCS CuriousU Blog.