Our team


Shawn Smith BCom, CRHM

Anti-Racist Coach and Organizational Consultant

Shawn Smith, an African Nova Scotian with ancestral ties to the Black Loyalists and Black Refugees migrations, draws on his personal experiences to advocate storytelling as a tool for confronting anti-racism. Shawn has navigated diverse roles in ESL teaching, marketing, and human resources at organizations like the Black Business Initiative, CPA Atlantic School of Business, and MNP LLP. Currently serving as Co-Founder of Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) and Senior Advisor for Black and African Nova Scotian Initiatives at NSCC, he champions initiatives to combat racism, enhance organizational culture, and improve recruitment and retention efforts. Shawn leads workshops and engagement sessions focusing on anti-racism, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing the transformative potential of historical awareness in shaping future societal outcomes.

 

Graham Nickerson MA, MSc Eng, BSc

Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management and Cultural Competency Training

As a workforce consultant, I offer a unique blend of expertise in marine science, community engagement, and project management. My role as Community Inclusion Liaison for the City of Fredericton involved coordinating input from community groups and spearheading initiatives like the Hidden History geotour and the Canadian Atlas of Social Inclusion, showcasing my ability to foster diversity and inclusivity. Additionally, my experience as a Research Assistant for the Universities Studying Slavery Conference and as a Black History Subject Matter Expert for the New Brunswick Department of Education highlights my proficiency in research, curriculum development, and promoting diversity. With a background in hydrographic survey management, software support engineering, and project management, I bring valuable skills in data interpretation, technical writing, and customer support to provide tailored workforce solutions. Passionate about fostering inclusive workplaces, I am committed to helping organizations optimize their workforce strategies and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.