This program invites 2–3 leaders from 10–15 choirs or singing organizations who are ready to embrace meaningful organizational change. It is ideal for leaders who are:

• Passionate about growth and transformation
• Open to new approaches and perspectives
• Committed to fully participating in all program sessions

We invite leaders who are open to change and fully committed to attending all sessions. Each organization is required to have a minimum of two (2) and no more than three (3) leaders in attendance. The program consists of seven (7) Saturday sessions, each lasting 2 hours, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM ET with 30 minutes - 1 hour of preparation which could include readings, evaluations and a final presentation to the group.

The scheduled dates are:

• March 8 and 22
• April 5 and 26
• May 10 and 24
• June 7

The fee to participate is $200 plus tax per choir/singing group. The fee is not per person. If the fee is a barrier to participate, registrants will have the option to "pay what you can".

Please note: The choir/singing groups for which the participating leaders represent must be members of either Choral Canada or the collaborating Provincial Choral Organizations (BC Choral Federation, Choir Alberta, Saskatchewan Choral Federation, Manitoba Choral Association, Choirs Ontario, or Nova Scotia Choral Federation).

Strategic Partnerships Lead, Black Pledge Collective

Velvet Wells (they/them) is an award-winning queer, Black, lyrical comedian and creator-producer based in Ottawa, unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. They are the Strategic Partnership Lead for the Black Pledge Collective, and co-facilitator of the successful Beyond Black Squares workshop series. In 2024, they piloted their anti-racism/anti-oppression workshop “Practice Dismantling Racism”, designed as an interactive practice space using applied improvisation. They are the creator of the sold out “Ottawa Comedy Cabaret Cruise” series, the internationally toured “All Request Radio”, and they are a multiple award winning playwright for “(Re)Tired Magical Black Man.” They are proud of their Disability Files contribution “Accessibility, One Person at a Time.” 

Professional Development Lead, Black Pledge Collective

Naomi Bain is a multifaceted artist, blending activism, writing, performance, community education, futurism, and textile design into a vibrant tapestry of creative expression. Naomi’s artistic journey was nurtured at the renowned Watah Theater during the Black Box Season, where they honed their craft under the mentorship of the esteemed actor and creator, d’bi young anitafrika. With an unwavering commitment to community, Naomi found their purpose within the Sherbourne Health Center’s Supporting Our Youth (SOY) initiative. Here, they became an integral part of the Human Equity Access Team, acquiring invaluable experience in addressing LGBTQ+ issues within diverse communities. Beyond their artistic and LGBTQ+ advocacy roles, Naomi is a dedicated educator and facilitator at Freedom School Toronto. Through this program, they passionately champion the rights and advancement of Black students within the educational landscape. At the core of Naomi’s being lies an unshakable dedication to effecting positive change, not only within their immediate communities but also on a global scale. With an unapologetic spirit, Naomi continues to be a driving force for transformation and empowerment.