Stories of Leadership: Beyond Binaries & Boxes
Breaking boundaries, embracing complexity – exploring how our intersecting identities and experiences shape the way we lead
Engage in meaningful conversations about leadership through the lens of lived experiences. Stories of Leadership: Beyond Binaries & Boxes is a series that explores multidimensional views of identity, race, gender and power.
- Explore how identity and leadership intersect
- Hear diverse voices and leadership journeys
- Reflect on your own experiences and perspectives
- Build inclusive models of leadership for campus and beyond
Who can join
This program is open to all University of Toronto students.
- No prior leadership experience needed
- Join whether you’re new to leadership or deeply involved
- Students from all academic disciplines and backgrounds welcome
Stories of Leadership sessions
Sessions run 1–2 times per semester and include:
- Panel Discussion (1–1.25 hours)
Hear from 3–4 panelists as they share how their intersecting identities shape their leadership experiences. - Break & Refreshments
Take time to connect, reflect and recharge. - Creative Connections Hour (1 hour)
Join small-group discussions led by Equity Leadership Peer Facilitators. Share insights, brainstorm ideas and take part in simple, interactive activities.
Sessions are primarily in person, with hybrid options to come. Each session will feature a unique theme reflecting different aspects of identity and leadership.
This program encourages flexibility: students can participate in ways that feel most accessible to them. While there is a formal structure to each session, there is space for individuals to engage at their own pace. Attendees are welcome to show up as they can and still take something meaningful from the experience. Reflection opportunities will be incorporated through guiding questions to support those who may not be sure where to start, helping shape the flow of discussions in a way that feels natural and inclusive.
Session facilitators
Sessions are guided by Equity Leadership Peer Facilitators—trained students who create space for meaningful dialogue. They are supported by Student Engagement staff and guest speakers from campus and community organizations.
Recommend a speaker
If you know someone whose story could spark meaningful conversation and reflection, recommend them as a speaker.
Get involved in the Stories of Leadership student team
Help shape the program and experience by:
- Suggesting session themes and speaker selections.
- Serving as a Equity Leadership Peer Facilitator to guide small-group discussions.
- Helping create a welcoming and inclusive space for your peers.
Upcoming sessions
Registration is required. Register using the Folio links* on this page.
There’s nothing on the schedule right now, but check back soon to see what’s coming up.
In the meantime, visit Folio for similar events or explore our website to discover other programs and opportunities.
*The Folio link is only accessible to people who are eligible to register for the Stories of Leadership program. This program is open to all University of Toronto students.
