Book Our Founder As Your Next Speaker or Moderator
Samanta Krishnapillai is a dynamic and compassionate leader, speaker, and social entrepreneur, best known as the founder and driving force behind the On Canada Project (OCP) and Group Project Initiatives (GPI). With a background rooted in health equity, justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (JEDI), and systemic change, Samanta has become a powerful voice for marginalized communities, advocating for inclusive practices and social justice across Canada.
As a first-generation Tamil-Canadian entrepreneur, Samanta’s journey is deeply influenced by her experiences as the daughter of Eelam Tamil refugees. This unique perspective fuels her passion for creating spaces that prioritize equity, compassion, and collective action. Her work through OCP has reached and mobilized hundreds of thousands of Canadians, empowering them to engage with critical social and political issues in a meaningful and accessible way.
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Her speaking style is engaging, authentic, and deeply empathetic. She connects with her audience through relatable narratives, personal anecdotes, and a conversational tone that makes complex social issues understandable and compelling. Her honesty and willingness to address difficult topics head-on, coupled with her compassionate approach, create a powerful and trusting atmosphere that encourages open dialogue and reflection.
Samanta’s leadership is grounded in compassion, inclusivity, and the belief in collective action. She leads with empathy, ensuring that the well-being of her team and community members is always a priority. Her commitment to inclusivity is evident in her efforts to create environments where all voices are heard and valued, particularly those from marginalized communities. Samanta leads by example, embodying the values she advocates for in her daily actions and decision-making processes.
A strong advocate for collaboration, Samanta fosters a culture of teamwork and shared responsibility, empowering those around her to take ownership of their roles and contribute to the collective success. Her adaptability and resilience as a leader have been particularly evident during times of crisis, where she has guided her team with a calm and steady hand.
Learn More About Samanta, See Past Engagements
Expertise:
• Digital Advocacy and Community Building
• Inclusive Leadership and JEDI Practices
• Social Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Impact
• Crisis Management and Compassionate Communication
• Empowerment of First-Generation Leaders
• Mental Health and Well-being in Leadership
• Collective Action and Community Mobilization
Signature Talks and Workshops:
• “A New Era of Leadership: Integrating Lived Experiences for Millennials and Gen Z”
• “Avoiding Cancel Culture While Nurturing Healthy & Productive Workforces”
• “Hope in an Era of Doomscrolling”
• “Shifting from Individualization to Collectivism: Harnessing the Power of Community”
• “How To Be An Ally to Yourself & Others”
• “Navigating Your Power & Privilege”
• “Storytelling for Change: Crafting Narratives that Resonate”
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Moderator
Samanta’s moderation skills are unmatched when it comes to guiding meaningful discussions. Whether she’s moderating a panel, a roundtable, or an open forum, Samanta ensures that every voice is heard and that the conversation drives toward impactful outcomes. She has a unique ability to navigate complex, often sensitive topics with empathy and clarity, ensuring that discussions remain productive, inclusive, and focused on creating real change. With Samanta as your moderator, you can be confident that your event will be both engaging and transformative.
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Speaker
Samanta’s speaking engagements—whether keynotes, panels, or fireside chats—are designed to challenge, inspire, and mobilize. She delivers powerful insights on topics like Anti-Racism, Intersectional Leadership, and Cultural Competency, but she doesn’t stop there. Samanta engages deeply with the audience, weaving in real-world examples, and practical advice that leave attendees not just inspired, but ready to act. Her talks are known for sparking lively discussions, encouraging critical thinking, and motivating audiences to push beyond their comfort zones.
See examples of speaker topics below.
Past Speaking Themes Include
Redefining Canadian Identity: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
Discuss the evolution of Canadian identity through the lens of diversity and inclusion, highlighting the contributions of marginalized communities.
Building Resilient Communities in a Digital Age
Explore how digital platforms can be leveraged to build resilient, connected, and supportive communities, especially in times of crisis.
From Passion Project to Social Enterprise: The On Canada Project Journey
Share the story of how OCP evolved from a volunteer-driven initiative into a sustainable social enterprise, offering lessons for aspiring social entrepreneurs.
The Role of Media in Shaping Public Discourse and Policy
Discuss the impact of media on public opinion and policy-making, and how independent media like OCP can drive social change.
Intersectionality in Action: Leading with Lived Experience
Explore the importance of intersectionality in leadership and how integrating personal lived experiences can lead to more inclusive and effective leadership.
Digital Storytelling for Social Impact
Highlight the power of digital storytelling in mobilizing communities and driving social change, with examples from OCP’s successful campaigns.
Navigating the Complexities of Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (JEDI)
Discuss the challenges and opportunities in advancing JEDI within organizations and communities, with practical strategies for making meaningful progress.
Empowering First-Generation Leaders: Overcoming Barriers and Creating Change
Share strategies for first-generation leaders to navigate systemic barriers, leverage their unique cultural perspectives, and drive impactful change.