Indigenous Services

Shay (Shanice) Colley (they/them) holds a Hons. B.A in Psychology from York University, and M.A., in Globalization and the Human Condition from McMaster University, they embody the roles of an intentional community advocate, bridge-builder, and proud system disruptor. As a Two-Spirited Afro-Mi’kmaw individual, their mission is to dismantle systemic barriers and lead the collective advancement of 2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous, and Black communities, both within and beyond Canada. Shay champions the return of vulnerability to community-based work, embodying this ethos through profound, intimate, and non-negotiable efforts crucial for the growth, sustainability, and prosperity of these communities.

This holistic approach fuels Shay’s resolute dedication to fostering impactful change through determined action, positioning them in diverse roles that drive tangible transformation. Shay is an esteemed researcher at ASE Foundation, delving into the influence of diverse learning and physical abilities on Black Youth education within the Hamilton-Burlington-Halton region.

As a St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Hamilton) research advisory committee member, Shay navigates the landscape of mental health care accessibility for equity deserving groups, particularly emphasizing the Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

Functioning as a policy analyst within the federal public service, Shay advocates for equitable health care access for 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, and Indigenous communities. Their work extends to crafting organizational strategies that foster culturally grounded services for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Black communities.

Additionally, Shay serves as a board member for “Re:Think Policy Change,” an organization dedicated to elevating lived experiences, amplifying voices, opinions, and needs of individuals and groups. Their involvement ensures the alignment of offered services with the necessary and relevant support.

Their multifaceted approach mirrors an intersectional lens, prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of those around them. Shay thrives on diverse experiences, channeling their energy into community engagement, anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism course development, training, facilitation, peer research, strategic planning, and more. This has led to the creation of community-oriented services and the orchestration of collaborative engagement processes across diverse service streams, fostering holistic community growth.

In Shay’s view, public policy should stem from the heart, driven by care and the desire to enhance outcomes, fostering sustainable change. In a constantly evolving world, their steadfast pursuit of equity, justice, and happiness manifests through building bridges of solidarity and dismantling oppressive systems.