Ep: 27 - Advancing Equity
With special guest, Mela Swayze
Welcome to Leading Inspired Learning: A Strive Podcast! In this episode, Liz is joined by Mela Swayze, PhD, to take a deeper dive into equity. Mela discusses their RISE Framework for Early Learning, which was developed to advance equity in the early years, and breaks down the four pillars of the framework. Mela also discusses their work in supporting educators and care professionals in the early years, describing the possibilities and passions they have noticed while engaging with our communities. Listen, learn, reflect, enjoy!
Guest Bio
Mela Swayze (they/them), PhD, is an educator, speaker, and consultant with a passion for intersectional, trauma-informed practice and organizational change. Born and raised in Hamilton, Mela has diverse experience in academia, healthcare, social services, and municipal government, and has trained thousands of employees in workplace equity practices. They are a board member of the Hamilton Trans Health Coalition and founder of Hamilton's Trans ID Clinic, which has operated since 2017. Mela holds a PhD in Education and currently consults with nonprofits and education providers, offering strategic advising in their equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) journeys.