Live podcast
June 4th, 2026
Toronto, ON
Language plays a powerful role in shaping what is tolerated, ignored, challenged, or normalized in schools.
Harmful language doesn’t exist in isolation—it affects school climate, student safety, and a sense of belonging.
In partnership with Harmony Movement, University of Toronto Schools, and Unsinkable, our discussion will feature 4 panelists who will explore the role of language in both reinforcing harm and creating the conditions for more respectful, inclusive, and courageous school communities.
Hosted by Asante Haughton and Kritika Sharda, the discussion will explore what responsibility different community members hold and what it takes to build environments rooted in dignity, accountability, repair, and inclusion.
Remaining true to The 44 North principle of grounding discussion in action, panelists will not only share what needs to change, but who has the power to create that change, and what courage and responsibility look like in practice. Rather than asking young people to share painful experiences for the benefit of others, the event is designed to honour youth insight, wisdom, agency, and vision.
details
what: live podcast recording
when: thursday evening, june 4th, 2026
6:30PM - 8:30PM
where: university of toronto schools black box theatre; details TBD
tickets: subscribe to our substack newsletter to be the first to be know when tickets go on sale
Event partners:
panelists
Delux Yogarajah
Delux Yogarajah is a youth worker, psychotherapy student, and founder of Finding Your HeART (FYH), a community initiative supporting Black and racialized youth through art, storytelling, and mental health programming. By combining youth culture—particularly sneaker customization—with art therapy, he has carved out a unique pathway for young people to access mental health support through creative expression. With extensive experience in youth violence prevention across Toronto, his work focuses on building leadership, healing, and opportunity for youth to feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Tracey Kayy
Tracey Kayy is a Multidisciplinary Artist, Caseworker, Mental Health Practitioner, Educator, and Equity & Diversity Advocate who uses her musical creations to heal, empower, and inspire through enlightenment. Through music and poetry, she brings attention to realities that are often overlooked, creating space for reflection, healing, and meaningful dialogue. Known for her powerful presence and ability to connect deeply with others, she often leaves audiences feeling inspired and renewed. Over the years, she has worked with a number of notable organizations and remains passionate about strengthening communities while creating opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
Diara Jones is a Grade 12 student at the University of Toronto Schools. Co-lead of the Black Equity Committee, she has worked to create a safe and inclusive environment for Black Students, while educating the broader school community on racial injustice and how to promote an environment of equity. This year she helped lead the Black Equity Committee in presenting a school-wide assembly on Digital Blackface and the exploitation of Black culture in pop media. Additionally, the committee hosted the annual Black Student Affinity Network Conference, connecting Black Students across Independent Schools in the GTA. She will be pursuing a degree in Architecture at the University of Waterloo in September 2026.
Safeyyah Imam is a high school student, advocate, and public speaker. Within her school she leads many affinity groups and committees - ranging from the Black Equity Committee, to Sustainability Club. In her community, she engages in youth access initiatives like Hart House’s Youth Advisory Council, and Culturelink’s Newcomer Orientation Week - planning and running events that give students community. In and out of school, her impact lies in creating spaces for marginalized youth in the best way she can; using her voice and leadership.
Diara Jones & Safeyyah Imam
Do you want to support our podcast event?
We have limited sponsorship and partnership opportunities available. If you're interested in being a part of this flagship event, e-mail Gillian Smith-Clark at editor@the44north.ca
hosts
Asante Haughton
Asante Haughton has emerged as a leader in mental health. A veteran of the speaker circuit, Asante has presented across the globe, including doing TEDx talks telling stories detailing how family trauma impact mental health.
Kritika Sharda
Kritika Sharda is a Contributing Writer at The 44 North Magazine, and a Program Facilitator with Unsinkable Youth. Sharda is a McMaster Health Sciences student in Ontario and was a panelist at last year's live podcast event.