BY PAUL JUNOR
There is no doubt that Celina R. Caesar-Chavannes has achieved significant personal and professional goals in her rise from business consultant to the corridors of political power in Ottawa.
As the first African Canadian to be elected in the federal riding of Whitby in 2015, she was appointed as Parliamentary Secretary for International Development. She left politics in 2019, and she has documented much of her personal and professional journey in her memoirs, “Can You Hear Me Now?” released in February 2021. Her memoir highlights her early years in Grenada and her experience as an organizational strategist and equity consultant for diverse private and public institutions.
Her academic journey involves the attainment of a BSc in Human Biology, two MBAs, one in Healthcare Management from the University Phoenix and the other from the Rotman School of Management. Currently, she is enrolled in the Doctor of Philosophy program at Queen’s University specializing in Neuroscience.
Her personal autobiography serves a dual function as both a memoir and a leadership book. It is described as,
“A funny, self-aware, poignant, confessional and fierce look at how badly screwing things up completely is truly a more powerful lesson in how to conduct a life than extraordinary success. They build an utter honesty with yourself and others that allows you to say things nobody else dares to say – the necessary things about navigating the places that weren’t built for you and holding firm to your principles. If you do that, you will help build a world where inclusion is real. Just as Celena is now trying to do, in all her brilliance and boldness.”
Celina has contributed to several publications over the years. She wrote an article for the June 4th, 2020 issue of Policy Options Magazine, in which she states,
“If diversity is truly going to be our strength, and BlackLivesMatter is going to be a reality beyond the hash tag, our government needs to be serious and intentional about policy that is inclusive and funding that is sustainable. We are beyond the point of community consultations and rhetoric. It is time for accountability and action. And both need to start now.”
On Sunday, January 23rd, 2022, Celina announced the launch of an app MaximizingU on her Facebook page. She states it “Contains many of the lessons, practical tips and homework that I needed to do, in order to be a successful researcher, entrepreneur, politician and even a parent.”
Individuals will be able to:
- Build the leadership and equity competencies necessary to pivot in a dynamic global marketplace
- Discover what you love doing and where you can add value
- Maximize your full purpose, potential and passion
Anyone interested can download the app at https:tinyurl.com/maximizingu. The first 2022 individuals to access the in-app purchase will receive the entire program for $20.22.
