Equity, Diversity and
Inclusion in the
Cultural Sector:

The Role of Cultural Organizations
Pan-Canadian
Virtual Conference
June 15 · 16, 2022
Wednesday, June 15, 2022 · Theme 1

The Role of Post-Secondary Institutions in Addressing EDI in the Arts (Panel)

Simon Fraser University - School for the Contemporary Arts

From 12h:50am to 13h:50am (EDT)

In English| Simultaneous interpretation in French and ASL

Abstract

From artists looking to refine their practices, to individuals honing their administration and management skills to build stronger arts and culture organizations and sector, their knowledge and understanding are often deeply shaped while attending post-secondary institutions. As students, faculty, and community stakeholders have called on educational institutions to “do better,” this session will explore and share strategies and challenges for building safer and more inclusive teaching and learning experiences that influence the current and future generations of artists, workers, and patrons.

Speakers

Doreen Manuel, MFA (she/her) (Panelist)

Doreen Manuel (Secwepemc/Ktunaxa), MFA, is a residential school survivor and an award-winning filmmaker. She is the Director of the Bosa Centre for Film and Animation at Capilano University and serves on the Board of Directors of Knowledge Network, Women in Film & Television, Vancouver International Film Festival and Documentary Organization of Canada.  Doreen is an outspoken advocate for equity and inclusion with an extensive background as a leader in education and community development. Doreen is a founder and instructor of Tricksters and Writers screenwriting program, a founder of the Indigenous Digital Accelerator and Filmmakers in Indigenous Leadership and Management Business Affairs programs.

Shanae Sodhi (Panelist)

Shanae is a graduate of Studio 58 where he was one of the establishing members and Head Organizer of the school’s Student Diversity Committee. A student-led group working to strengthen marginalized groups within the theatre community by empowering students with the tools and knowledge to engage in conversations of inclusivity. He works as an Associate Artist at Rumble Theatre. Recent producing credits: Social Justice Forum (New Harlem Productions), Straight White Men (ITSAZOO Productions), and Mx (winner of 2019 Fringe New Play Prize and Cultchivating the Fringe Award).

Wladimiro A. Woyno Rodriguez (he/him/his) (Moderator)

Wlad is a live performance designer and technologist with experience spanning contemporary theatre, opera, dance, concerts, and time-based installations. His work explores and contributes performance designs that engage the sensory imagination. He’s contributed to over 100 productions and projects, and his work has been performed across Canada and internationally. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, he holds an MFA in Design from Yale School of Drama and a BFA in Theatre Design from The University of British Columbia, with further professional training at The Banff Centre. He teaches at SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts and is an Associate member of The Wooster Group.

Daniela Atiencia (Panelist)

Daniela is a Latinx-Canadian theatre artist born and raised in Colombia. She works as a freelance bilingual director, dramaturg, and deviser. Daniela holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts and an MFA in Theatre Directing from the University of Essex where she graduated with Distinction. She has recently co-directed for Green Thumb Theatre’s livestream production of Cranked! and served as co-director for Neworld’s world premiere of Clean/Espejos by Christine Quintana. As dramaturg she is currently working with 6 different playwrights including Tetsuro Shigematsu’s latest commissioned piece for Pacific Theatre as well as a new play by Quelemia Sparrow. Her work recently earned her a finalist spot in the RBC Rising Star Emerging Director award.