Registration opens Tuesday, August 4 at 7:00 PM!
Facilitated by: Mela Swayze, PhD (they/them) and Shiva Mazrouei, PhD Candidate (she/her)
Join us for an uplifting session celebrating the vital role early childhood educators play in supporting children and families from equity-deserving communities. Through stories, reflection, and connection, participants will explore their role as equity champions and get a special preview of the forthcoming book RISE & SHINE for Equity in Early Learning.
Educators will leave the session:
Energized, recharged and reconnected to their work and celebrated for their impact in early learning
Clear on on their role as everyday equity champions and aware of their unique leadership strengths
Motivated to keep rising and supporting children and families from equity-deserving communities
Pedagogical Focuses: Belonging - Leadership
Standards of Practice: Standard I: Caring and Responsive Relationships, Standard II: Curriculum and Pedagogy, Standard IV: Professionalism and Leadership
Mela Swayze is a consultant and educator specializing in equity‑centered early learning, leadership development, and organizational change. They co‑authored the forthcoming book, RISE and SHINE for Equity in Early Learning, and have worked with municipalities and early learning organizations on research, strategy and professional learning.
Shiva Mazrouei is an experienced educator, curriculum developer, and advocate for lifelong learning. With extensive expertise in leadership development and facilitation, Shiva brings a deep commitment to belonging and inclusion in educational spaces and is the co-author of the forthcoming RISE and SHINE book.
To access the printable poster, please use the following link:
Thursday, November 12, 2026
6:30 - 8:00 PM
Strive Classroom
265 Maitland St.,
London, ON, N6B 2Y3
Cost
London/Middlesex: Pay What You Can
Elgin/Oxford: $10
Registration closes on Wednesday, November 11 at 12:00 PM
* Ticket types are based on the county you WORK in.
Registration opens Tuesday, August 4 at 7:00 PM!