It's hard to land on one word to describe Celina Caesar-Chavannes. For many, she is known as a trailblazer. Celina was the first Black politician to federally represent the Town of Whitby (2015-2019). Author, social activist, entrepreneur, Chopra Certified Coach®, and speaker are also part of her impressive bio. But it's listening to Celina tell her story that leaves a deep connection to her inspiring narrative. In honour of her author talk that took place at the Central Library in February 2024, we sat down with Celina for an interview about her book and more.
WPL: Can You Hear Me Now? is a powerful read full of vulnerability. What was it like to openly write your story and allow others to hear about your struggles?
Celina: Writing this book was a deeply personal and at times challenging experience. It required a great deal of vulnerability as I shared my journey with others. Opening up about my experiences and emotions allowed me to connect with readers on a more profound level. It was a therapeutic process for me as well, helping me reflect on my own growth, transformation, and healing (an helping others do the same). Additionally, I wanted to ensure that my story was told through my voice. The medium is the message. Often times our stories are told from the perspective of others. In doing so, it allowed me to be honest and vulnerable, such that we can help to change spaces and make them more equitable and just.
WPL: When did you feel like you were ready to start shaping the narrative for Can You Hear Me Now?
Celina: I felt ready when I realized the potential impact it could have on others. My experiences, both the triumphs and the challenges, could serve as a source of inspiration and empowerment for those facing similar obstacles. I wanted to share my story to provide hope and a roadmap for individuals seeking personal and professional growth, and more importantly, feel less lonely in their journey.
WPL: What was the hardest part of this project for you?
Celina: It was difficult revisiting some of the more painful moments of my life and putting them into words. It required me to confront my own vulnerabilities and emotions, which was both emotionally taxing and cathartic. Additionally, finding the right balance between sharing my personal experiences and providing practical insights for readers was a challenge, but an important one to overcome.
WPL: What has the response been like?
Celina: It's been incredibly heartwarming and positive. I've received messages from readers who have found inspiration and strength in my story. Many have shared how the book has motivated them to pursue their own goals and overcome obstacles. It's been deeply rewarding to know that my words are making a difference in people's lives. Here is a recent testimonial that I received from a reader, "A guest professor attended my doctoral class last night where we all shared our reasons for pursuing doctoral studies. I shared that my reason was personal, as a form of therapy, and read the part of your memoir that was the catalyst for my application, "... the ability to speak up about issues that brought pain to people was not just my responsibility, it had become my motivation and my calling. I'd found the perfect intersection of my past pain and present purpose” (p. 195 - Can You Hear Me Now). I closed your book, opened my laptop, and applied-literally! ~ Kimberley Black. (You may recall Kimberley from this story here.)
WPL: You put Whitby on the map as the first Black person to represent this federal riding. How has the Town of Whitby factored into your story?
Celina: Whitby holds a special place in my heart as the first Black person to represent the federal riding. The town and its people have been supportive and welcoming throughout my journey. Whitby's diverse and inclusive community has played a significant role in shaping my perspective on justice and equity. It's a town that values diversity and embraces change, aligning with my mission to democratize justice. At the door, each resident, irrespective of political alignment, saw my humanity. The PEOPLE of Whitby are my Why. But they are also my How. They (their votes) are how I got into politics, and why I stayed authentic and determined while I was there.
WPL: As an entrepreneur, tell us more about your business that centers on democratizing justice.
Celina: My business, centered on democratizing justice as a mechanism for deepening our humanity., aims to foster inclusive leadership and create environments where everyone has equal access to opportunities and a voice. We offer a range of services, from leadership coaching to diversity, equity, and inclusion training, helping organizations become more just and equitable. Our goal is to empower leaders with the tools and mindset to drive positive change in their workplaces and communities.
WPL: What does 2024 hold in store for you?
Celina: I'm looking forward to continuing my mission of removing barriers to justice in order to restore the frayed fibres of our collective humanity. I plan to expand the reach of my business and work with more organizations and leaders who are committed to making a difference - and developed a COIL Process to do just that. COIL stands for Compassionate & conscientious Culture, Open & Outspoken Operations, Intentional & Interrogative Introspection, and Loving & Laudable Leadership. COIL goes beyond traditional leadership models and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion)to integrate the two with the development of soft skills and spirituality. The result is ta comprehensive framework that instills values, practices, and strategies that promote fairness, inclusivity, and accessibility within ourselves, organizations, and the communities we serve. I also hope to engage in more speaking engagements, workshops, and initiatives that advance the cause of justice and compassionate leadership. It's an exciting year ahead, full of opportunities for growth and impact.
Black History Month is celebrated each February. This year's theme is, Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Celebrate. Celina's book "Can You Hear Me Now?" was a Shaughnessy Cohen prize finalist.