Happy International Women’s Day (IWD)!

This year’s theme is “better the balance, better the world”, which I am proud to say are words we live by here at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies. As IWD puts it, “balance is not a women's issue, it's a business issue.” I know that gender balance is crucial to our success as an educational organization.

Our 524 active female instructors share their expertise and unique experiences with our learners. In the past five years, over 100 women have developed courses at SCS, which our staff members (more than half of whom are female), have worked collaboratively to implement, support, and market. In this same timeframe, we saw 87,605 female learner enrolments.

Our female instructors and learners are incredibly diverse. Some are CEOs, artists, business owners, government leaders, and advocates. All of them are seeking to make the world a better place.

Essentially, gender balance plays a huge role in our organization, and we are always working to support this important dynamic.

As a provider of continuing education, we encourage gender balance in boardrooms, workplaces, government, media coverage, and income. Our focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion has us working together to reinforce this balance. As the Dean, my goal is to ensure that anyone who identifies as a woman will receive support, opportunity, and equality when they interact with SCS.

Sincerely,

Maureen MacDonald
Dean, University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies

As an internationally educated mechanical engineer, Samreen Fatima faced many challenges moving to Canada and entering the workforce. Adjusting to a new language and culture was the first hurdle, but there was also the question of obtaining her P.Eng., a license required by the Government of Canada for any engineering work that serves the public.

In Ontario, P.Eng. candidates must fulfill a set of course requirements, pass intensive exams and have 48 months’ proven work experience (12 of them in Canada). Luckily for Fatima, the Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO) provided financial assistance for the academic component, through SCS’ Licensing International Engineers into the Profession (LIEP) program. “Being new to Canada, you’re not in a financial position to pay full fees, because you can’t work,” says Fatima, who arrived from Pakistan in 2015 with her husband, also an engineer, and two children.

With help from expert instructors and the LIEP program’s flexible, part-time class schedule, Fatima passed all four of her required technical exams: Fluid Machinery, Applied Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer, Engineering Economics and Environmental Control. Her Fluid Machinery instructor, Dr. Hamideh Parizi, guided her through the material covered by the exam and more, offering support and advice along the way. “She taught us everything we had to know, going into the concepts, rather than simply the exam prep,” Fatima says. “Anytime we needed help outside class time, she was available by email and text. It was because of her that I passed.”

Parizi, who holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from U of T, is Vice President of Simulent Inc., a U of T spin-off company specializing in software development and consulting in the field of computational fluid dynamics. Being taught by a female engineer was encouraging for Fatima, who didn’t have many role models in Pakistan, especially as a working mother. Of her graduating class of 220 students at NED University of Engineering and Technology in Karachi, only about a dozen were women. “The supports for women are lacking there,” she says. “I had a job in my hands as soon as I graduated from engineering school, but I had to quit once I got married and had my son.”

“In Canada, the availability of maternity leave and daycare make a huge difference,” Fatima says. Through the LIEP program, Fatima also benefited from networking opportunities, attending job fairs and workshops. “Networking can be a challenge when you’re new to Canada—when you’re in a different culture, there are many small hurdles that you have to overcome,” Fatima says.

As she prepares for her final licensing exam, the Professional Practice Exam (PPE), while interning at an engineering firm, Fatima is confident that she’ll find a job she loves. “I’d like to apply for a job as a research assistant, because I enjoy continuously increasing and enhancing my knowledge,” she says. “I would also love to work in the automotive sector—I want to be on the floor. I’d like to do something that isn’t a typical office job.”

When: January 22, 2019, 7:00–9:00 PM

Where: University of Toronto, Sidney Smith Hall amphitheatre (Room 2102), 100 St. George St.

Co-presented by Editors Toronto, Canadian Authors–Toronto, and the Creative Writing Program at the School of Continuing Studies, University of Toronto.

This special event will bring acclaimed Vancouver novelist Esi Edugyan together with four of her editors — Patrick Crean, John Sweet, Marie-Lynn Hammond, and Jane Warren — for a discussion about the writing and editing of Ms. Edugyan's two Giller Prize winning novels, Half-Blood Blues (2011) and Washington Black (2018).

Free for members students, faculty, and staff in the Creative Writing Program. All proceeds will go to the School of Continuing Studies' Creative Writing Bursary to assist writing students.

Click here to learn more!

When Sara Leticia García Poo was offered the opportunity to travel from her Mexican community to study English in Toronto, she jumped at the chance. “When you get this kind of opportunity, you take the risk” she says. “With risk, you learn.”

As a recipient of the Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Chiapas (COCYTECH) scholarship, Sara and eleven other women attended a month-long learning intensive in the English Language Program (ELP) at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS). The scholarship, which is offered by the State of Chiapas, supports indigenous women who are pursuing Master’s degrees.

Sara grew close with other COCYTECH recipients, including Amarantha Lizeth López Méndez, Mari Cruz Ruiz Cortina, and Tania Gómez Guillén. All four women found it difficult to leave their families, but collectively knew this was the chance of a lifetime; the opportunity to learn a new language while being immersed in a foreign culture is rare for indigenous women in their community.

“Being a mom, being a professional, and a local woman from Mexico, it’s difficult to get opportunities like this” explains Sara. “We don’t have the personal budget to be here, so this scholarship is great. We are examples for other women and for our children.”

The language barrier was intimidating at first for Amarantha. Working with her English for Effective Communication instructor Lorenzo Sclocco, who won the 2017 Excellence in Teaching Award, her skills steadily improved. She valued the unique opportunity to meet other learners from around the world, and found a new confidence. “U of T taught me a different perspective” she says. “I have learned to believe in me, in my options.”

For Mari Cruz, visiting Toronto marked the first time she had ever travelled outside of Mexico. At 43, this was an exciting opportunity, but also meant personal sacrifice. She struggled to be away from her children, however Mari Cruz knew she was setting a strong example for them. “They watch me, and they are proud” she smiles. Tania adds that their experience speaks to the power of lifelong learning, and its capacity to unlock new experiences and inspire self-assurance.

Having returned to Mexico, the women are excited to incorporate their new English language skills into their educational pursuits. Tania finds her new grasp of English helpful as she pursues her Masters degree in tourism, because she is now able to communicate with English-speaking visitors. Sara and Mari Cruz plan to incorporate their new language abilities into their pursuit of a Master’s of Education, while Amarantha is finding unique ways to apply her English skills as she explores a Master’s in Biochemistry.

Leaving their communities meant taking a chance on the unknown, but these four women agree coming to SCS was the right choice.

 “It’s been a dream” says Sara. “For us, it’s been a dream”.

Skill Builders are short and accessible courses taught by leading experts. You will learn in-demand skills and information that will help you thrive in your current industry.

You can expect:

• Courses ranging from a half day to three days, depending on the subject matter
• Expert instruction – courses are taught by leading practitioners and/or researchers
• Relevant knowledge that can be applied directly in the workplace following the course
• No assessment/evaluation – these courses are designed for you to learn and develop your skills, and there is typically no assessment of learning
• Courses that relate to existing courses and certificate programs offered at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS)
• Opportunities to network

There is no need to apply. All Skill Builder courses, like most SCS courses, are open-enrolment. Letters of attendance can be provided upon request for your employer

These Skill Builder courses are starting soon. Click below to learn more:

• 3075 - Google Analytics
• 3381 - Change Management and Projects
• 3386 - Facilities Management Essentials
• 3389 - Blockchain for Non-Technical Professionals
• 3395 - Digital Transformation: Framework for Business Growth
• 3483 - Leading by Design – Applying Design Thinking to Leadership
• 3545 - Agile Marketing
• 3580 - Agile Practice in Business Analysis
• 3587 - Fearless Networking – Connecting Creatively & Confidently
• 3588 - Goal Setting and Achievement: Getting Beyond Stuck
• 3590 - Simple Tools for Managing Research Projects
• 3622 - Developing the Ultimate Marketing Plan for Dynamic Times
• 3626 - Planning for Autonomous Vehicles
• 3627 - Leading Enterprise Digital Transformation and Innovation
• 3638 - Applying Data Science to Real World Problems
• 3640 - Beyond Brainstorming: 3-Step System for Leading Creative Problem Solving Meetings
• 3646 - Creating the Business Pitch for Investors
• 3647 - Legal Tips for Start-ups and Small-businesses
• 3653 - Cyber Liability and Insurance
• 3664 - Putting the AI in Marketing and PR
• 3671 - Product Owner – Practical Strategies for Delivery Value

On November 29, the School of Continuing Studies (SCS) hosted the 2018 Business and Professional Awards Reception at the University of Toronto Faculty Club. This event honoured the winners of four donor funded awards that recognize learner excellence in various areas. Celebrating with family, friends, donors, and SCS staff, these learners had an opportunity to share their unique journeys, and express how continuing education has transformed their lives.  

Larry Chester Excellence in Leadership Award

The Larry Chester Excellence in Leadership Award was established in 2009 by Larry Chester, a former long-term instructor at the School of Continuing Studies. The award, geared for students in the Leadership Essentials Certificate, recognizes and rewards outstanding students who demonstrate the qualities of an emerging leader. The Larry Chester Excellence in Leadership Award is valued at $1,000.

Winners:

• Aashka Bhatt
• Arzu Kaya

Marilynn Booth Award of Excellence

Throughout her career, Marilynn Booth has shown how continuing education broadens horizons, creates opportunity, enriches our culture, and builds stronger communities - in our city, across Canada, and around the world. To honour Marilynn Booth in her retirement after a decade of remarkable achievements as Dean of the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, the Marilynn Booth Award of Excellence was created to recognize and reward career-focused learners who have demonstrated academic success, personal commitment, and exemplary leadership. The Marilynn Booth Award of Excellence is valued at $1,000.

Winners:

• Larry Chan
• Tania Fernandes
• Amir Kamandlooie
• Khatija Qureshi
• Marcus Tignanelli
• Melanie Wijeratna

Ogilvie Award for Excellence in Project Management

Project management professional and award-winning instructor Joseph Ogilvie established this award in 2015. This award recognizes a professional registered in a Project Management certificate program who has contributed to the growth, innovation, and overall success of their organization. The Ogilvie Award for Excellence in Project Management is valued at $2,500.

Winner:

• Matthew Rozycki

Timothy Fong and Enrico Chir Award

Timothy Fong, a long-term instructor at SCS, and fellow financial trading professional Enrico Chir, established this award in 2012. Timothy and Enrico define success not merely as achieving healthy financial returns, but also as committing to give back to the community. This award recognizes a learner with a similar perspective, who works in the finance, investment, or risk sectors. The winner demonstrates academic excellence and notable community engagement. The Timothy Fong and Enrico Chir Award is valued at $1,000.

Winner:

• Melinda Sheridan

For Rafael Lopes, relocating from Brazil to Canada opened exciting new career possibilities in the field of human resources. Having been a manager at Odebrecht, a major Brazilian conglomerate with operations in over 15 countries, he had extensive experience in HR technology and talent management. He had also lived in Michigan for five years as a child, giving him both language and cultural fluency.

After relocating to Toronto in May 2015, Rafael wanted to quickly re-enter the HR field, but he felt he needed to understand the particularities of the Canadian workplace. “That’s what led me to the School of Continuing Studies,” he says. Shortly after his arrival, he enrolled in online courses in Human Resources Management and Compensation at SCS. “The instructors were phenomenal at providing guidance and advice to fellow HR professionals, especially those with international backgrounds.” Not only did the courses fulfill some of the academic requirements of the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, the courses were valuable networking avenues that eventually landed him a job at Scotiabank, where he currently works as HR Reporting and Analytics Manager.

“At U of T, my instructors were open to connecting outside the course work, which isn’t always the case with other schools,” Lopes says. “They were really helpful and knowledgeable in the field.”

Not having many business contacts in Toronto, he learned to leverage his LinkedIn network for connections. “In Latin America, it would be very odd to reach out to a cold contact over LinkedIn and ask to connect over coffee,” he says. “Here, everyone does it. It was a matter of understanding the small differences in the way people network.”

After five months of job searching, he came to realize that Scotiabank, with its strong presence in Latin America, would be an ideal employer for him. “Through connections with my instructors, I ended up meeting someone at Scotiabank who would become a colleague in the bank’s HR department, as well as a Director who happened to be from Salvador, my hometown in Brazil,” Lopes says.

As an HR professional, Rafael has always been fascinated with how businesses operate and deliver value. “Success is rarely just about a product or service—it’s a question of ‘Do we have the right people? Are we creating the right environment to help them thrive?’” His work in the emerging field of HR reporting and analytics attempts to quantify some of those answers, rather than relying on assumptions. “My role is to help the bank implement its HR Data Governance program. This will allow us to effectively drive data-driven decision making through our employee data.” Lopes says.

Poetry is in Laboni Islam’s DNA. Her literary roots reach across continents. Born in Canada to Bangladeshi immigrant parents, her maternal grandfather was an English professor with a love of Shakespeare, and her maternal grandmother was a novelist, poet and translator.

From her very first creative stirrings— at age four, she made up a short poem about her father cutting the grass— words have fascinated her. “From a young age, I knew language was a very powerful vehicle,” she says. “It can bring such joy.”

Despite her family history, Islam’s journey to becoming a published poet wasn’t a straight line. “I think of my career path as more of a web,” Islam says. Trained as a teacher, she spent several years at an elementary school before taking her current job as Education Officer for Children and Youth at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), helping young learners create and understand art.

While she loves engaging kids in conversations about creativity, the urge to write poetry grew stronger. In 2010, she enrolled in her first Creative Writing course at SCS, “From the beginning, I knew I wanted to commit to earning the full certificate, to hold myself accountable,” she says.

She quickly overcame her initial hesitancy at sharing her first poem with the group. “The response was positive, validating, and all the encouragement I needed,” she says. Studying with established, award-winning writers such as Catherine Graham, Ken Babstock, and Karen Solie, Islam gained valuable experience workshopping her poems. The feedback process, while intimidating at first, instilled habits that strengthened her creative muscles. “I learned to revise, revise, revise,” she says. “Poetry is a language, and by immersing myself, I gained fluency.”

 In 2015, Islam completed her Certificate in Creative Writing at SCS, her courses ranging from poetry to prose and playwriting. Her poems have appeared in literary journals such as Canthius and Wildness, as well as The Unpublished City Anthology, curated by Dionne Brand. She is the recipient of two SCS awards: the Janice Colbert Poetry Award (2014) and the Marina Nemat Award (2016), and was shortlisted for the 2017 CBC Poetry Prize.

She is currently working on her first collection of poems and teaches occasional writing workshops at the Aga Khan Museum, where she also serves as an Educator. Islam owes her newfound confidence to the supportive environment of SCS. Her classmates ranged from undergraduates to retirees to professionals juggling day jobs, but their common bond was a love of the written word. “I felt like I became part of a community of writers,” she says. “We learned so much from each other.”

When Martha Bátiz and her husband moved to Canada from Mexico in 2003, they had two-year-old twin daughters in tow and knew no one in their adoptive country. As they both pursued their respective educations—her as a graduate student at the University of Toronto’s Department of Spanish and Portuguese, him as an engineer working on his P.Eng.—balancing career ambitions and family life became a constant juggling act. 

“We had to make a lot of sacrifices,” she says. “But what mattered was to finish our degrees and certifications. The sooner we did, the more we had to gain from our life in Canada.” Bátiz, an award-winning writer in her native language of Spanish, enrolled in SCS’ Creative Writing certificate program as a way of improving her English and reconnecting with her literary side. “I was desperate to meet people with the same passions as me,” she says. 

To make things work, she and her husband would trade shifts with their daughters, meeting at a subway station for handoffs so that she could rush to evening classes downtown. On weekends, Bátiz pulled all-nighters to get her writing assignments done. “I was running on very little sleep,” she says. Their team efforts paid off. Bátiz published four books (including a short story collection in English), finished a Ph.D. and became a writing instructor herself, founding SCS’ Creative Writing in Spanish course (the first of its kind in Canada), taking only a week off teaching to give birth to her son. She believes her children, now 17 and 8, have a greater appreciation for education after watching Bátiz pursue continuing studies. “It instilled in them a love of learning,” she says. “My advice is if you can find any way to make it work, do it,” says Bátiz. “Why put yourself last when you’re the force that will drive your family forward?"

Over 500 lifelong learners and their families gathered in Convocation Hall to celebrate excellence in continuing education over the course of the two-night event. Learners travelled from across Canada and around the world to join in the festivities and collect their certificates in everything from accounting to creative writing.

University of Toronto Provost Cheryl Regehr and outgoing Vice-President of the University of Toronto and Principal of University of Toronto Scarborough were on hand to join SCS Dean Maureen MacDonald in leading the learner procession into Convocation Hall and congratulating learners and instructors on their achievements.