R.A.I.S.E is grounded in the belief that true sustainability cannot be achieved without gender equity, inclusive policy development, and active participation of women in shaping environmental outcomes at local, national, and global levels.
Customized HR support built for the environmental sector: practical, affordable, and results-driven.
with others navigating similar challenges
conversations and insights grounded in real experiences - not just theory.
how others are addressing systemic barriers and apply those learnings within your own context
confidence and expand your influence
Open to individuals of all genders across Canada:
For organizations committed to building inclusive workplaces, developing talent, and helping shape the future environmental workforce.
For professionals looking to grow their skills, expand their networks, and advance their careers.
Stay connected with Canada’s evolving environmental workforce ecosystem.
Interested in learning more about R.A.I.S.E, available resources, membership opportunities, partnerships, or ways to get involved? Complete the form and our team will follow up with the information you need.
Pooja Sharma is the Senior Manager, Professional Services Projects at ECO Canada, where...
Dr. Aseel A. Takshe is a distinguished higher education leader and environmental economist...
Dana Lister is a seasoned sales, operations, and continuous improvement professional...
Sartaj Sarkaria (she/her) is the Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Centre for Diversity...
Pooja Sharma is the Senior Manager, Professional Services Projects at ECO Canada, where she leads strategic initiatives that address workforce, industry, and environmental challenges through collaborative and innovative approaches. With academic credentials in Computer Science, a Master of Arts in Economics, and a diploma in Business Administration, she brings a multidisciplinary perspective to program design, stakeholder engagement, and project delivery. Pooja has extensive experience leading complex projects and partnerships that drive measurable outcomes for employers, communities, and the environmental sector. Her work focuses on advancing sustainable workforce solutions and fostering systemic change that strengthens workforce participation, economic resilience, and long-term community impact across Canada.
Dr. Aseel A. Takshe is a distinguished higher education leader and environmental economist, currently serving as the Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Digital Innovation and Sustainability at Canadian University Dubai (CUD). She holds a PhD in Environmental Economics and Management from the University of York, England.
With over two decades of experience spanning academia, research, and policy advisory, Dr. Takshe has been at the forefront of advancing education for sustainability and public health leadership across the MENA region. Her expertise bridges the intersection of environmental policy, health systems, and economic management, driving transformative change in how institutions integrate sustainability into teaching, research, and governance.
At CUD, Dr. Takshe has led strategic initiatives in curriculum innovation, international accreditation, and interdisciplinary research that align with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development and knowledge-based growth.
Dana Lister is a seasoned sales, operations, and continuous improvement professional with more than 20 years of experience driving operational excellence, organizational effectiveness, and cross-functional collaboration within the manufacturing sector. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for bringing people together across departments, identifying systemic barriers, and implementing practical solutions that improve efficiency, engagement, operational and business outcomes.
As Sales and Continuous Improvement Leader at Daifuku Manufacturing Canada Corporation, Dana leads cross-functional improvement projects, supports executive leadership, and champions initiatives that strengthen operational effectiveness, customer experience, and workforce development. Her experience includes project leadership, ISO compliance, workplace health and safety, onboarding and training development. She also has experience implementing new systems and processes that improve organizational performance, along with continuous improvement programs that foster inclusive participation and sustainable organizational growth.
Dana’s passion for creating equitable opportunities extends beyond operational excellence. She is committed to advancing accessibility, inclusion, and workforce development by helping organizations identify and remove barriers that prevent individuals from fully contributing to and benefiting from environmental and sustainability-focused careers. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, respect for diverse perspectives, and the development of practical solutions that create meaningful and lasting impact.
Complementing her extensive professional experience, Dana has completed Executive Business Management studies through the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University and earned her Project Management Professional (PMP) education through McMaster University. She also serves as an Internal ISO Auditor and Health and Safety Team Lead, further strengthening her ability to support governance, accountability, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Hire a post-secondary student for a meaningful work placement and receive financial support toward eligible wages.
Get reimbursed for up to 50% of eligible student wages.
Eligible employers include Canadian-owned businesses, Canadian subsidiaries, and non-profits of all sizes. Placements must relate to the student's post-secondary program in STEAM or Business.
Apply as an EmployerSupport is subject to program eligibility, available placements, and approval.
Dans un esprit de respect, de réciprocité et de vérité, nous honorons et reconnaissons Moh’kinsstis, le territoire traditionnel du Traité 7 et les pratiques orales de la confédération des Pieds-Noirs : Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, ainsi que les nations Îyâxe Nakoda et Tsuut’ina. Nous reconnaissons que ce territoire abrite la Nation métisse de l’Alberta, la région 3 au sein de la patrie historique des Métis du Nord-Ouest. Enfin, nous reconnaissons toutes les nations qui vivent, travaillent et se divertissent sur ce territoire, et qui l’honorent et le célèbrent.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.
This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.
We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.
As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.
Nous travaillons actuellement sur la version française du site que nous espérons lancer très bientôt!
Merci pour votre patience et compréhension pendant que nous finalisons la version améliorée du site.
We are working to launch the French site very soon!
Thank you for your patience while we finalize the new and improved version of our website.
Maureen Reed