Everyone has a story to tell and has a unique contribution to the world. I am excited to launch the Voices Less Heard podcast. This podcast will spotlight conversations with “ordinary” people doing extraordinary work. The intention is to use the podcast platform to add to the chorus of voices and stories that make this world a truly beautiful place to live in. Imperfect as the world might be, the current polycrisis presents an opportunity for us to hear these different stories, learn from one another while building inclusive communities and societies. In this first season I speak to people doing amazing work in Canada and around the world. From entrepreneurs, grant makers, world renowned early childhood development experts to social justice activists each episode will have interesting stories.

This conversation explores the experiences of black people and people of African descent in the grant-making and philanthropy sector in Canada. Dr. PMak and Omar Yasin Omar discuss the importance of centering and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, the challenges of grant-making, and the need for intentional and purposeful grant-making.

Professor Alan Pence discusses his early childhood work and the importance of community, culture, and context in early childhood development. He shares his experiences with mentors such as Prof. Uri Bronfenbrenner and Thomas Weisner, who influenced his understanding of child development. Pence also talks about his work in Kenya and the challenges of being a male caregiver and house father. He then discusses his involvement with a tribal council in Canada and the development of a generative curriculum that incorporates both Western and indigenous knowledge. The conversation explores the importance of knowledge engagement and generation in education, particularly in Indigenous communities. It highlights the success of a program that focused on interaction and collaboration rather than knowledge transfer. The conversation also discusses the impact of the program on the community, elevating the students and elders and changing their perception of themselves. The conversation then delves into the establishment of the Early Childhood Development Virtual University, which aimed to train graduate-level leaders in Africa. The importance of learning from the past and the need for a global perspective in early childhood education are also emphasized.

In this conversation, Dr. PMak speaks with Camarrah Morgan about the importance of self-care and finding balance in life. Camarrah shares her personal journey of realizing the need to prioritize herself and how it has transformed her perspective. They discuss the idea that caring for oneself is not selfish, but necessary for long-term well-being. They also explore the balance between taking care of the community and taking care of oneself. Camarrah emphasizes the importance of sharing the load and empowering others to contribute, creating a stronger community. They touch on the generational struggle of overworking and the need to shift the focus from quantifiable metrics to happiness and well-being. Camarrah shares her favorite hobbies, such as journaling and enjoying sunsets and water. They conclude by discussing the future of humanity and the importance of liberation and joy.

Yves-Gérard Méhou-Loko shares his experiences growing up in different countries and cultures, including France, Togo, Benin and Canada. He discusses his early career in politics and journalism, as well as the challenges he faced in navigating the public service and media industry. Yves-Gérard emphasizes the importance of patience and understanding in creating systemic change and combating racism. He also highlights the need for collective action and allyship in the fight against discrimination. Despite his current position of power as the Secretary General for the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, Yves-Gérard acknowledges that racism can still persist and that he remains committed to uplifting others.

Dr. PMak welcomes Zarya Thomas and Emmanuel Okee, the founders of the 4Roots Collective, a network of community organizers and social entrepreneurs of African descent. They discuss their commitment to community, the fragmentation in their community, and the need for healing and celebration. Emmanuel shares his journey from studying medicine to psychology and his passion for cultural education. They also discuss the problems within the community, including the loss of cultural values and the prioritization of capitalism over human connection.