Building community, taking action

At Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), the Black Professionals Network (BPN) plays a key role in supporting Black employees and drawing on collective insights to help inform how the department can better support its Black community.

"The Black Professionals Network brings people together across PSPC to specifically support Black employees and, more broadly, to contribute to enriching the workplace culture for everyone," says Laura Casimiro, Chairperson of the network. "We focus on collaboration by sharing ideas, listening to experiences and innovating for impact in how we approach our priorities."

The BPN, made up of both members and allies, continues to grow, reflecting a strong desire among employees to connect, contribute and drive positive change.

"When people feel supported, they stay engaged," Laura adds. "That engagement strengthens the whole organization."

Leading with purpose

Laura's path to leading the BPN reflects both her professional experience and her commitment to people-centred leadership. She began her federal career as a student through the Federal Student Work Experience Program. Over the years, she has served in various roles, most recently as a manager in Corporate Communications.

"I didn't always see myself as a leader in the traditional sense," Laura reflects. "What I've learned is that leadership doesn't always come with a title. Often, it starts with noticing when important perspectives are missing or when untapped experiences could make a difference."

Her leadership values are rooted in listening, encouraging dialogue and fostering connection. "My own lived experiences taught me how much support, collaboration and community matter at work. That's why it's important to me to help create spaces where everyone feels comfortable to contribute."

Turning dialogue into action

The network focuses on three priorities: empowering Black professionals, promoting health and wellness, and breaking down systemic beliefs and barriers that impact Black employees.

"We help turn conversations into action and solutions by sharing feedback and practical ideas with leaders across the department," says Laura. "Our work is about ensuring that lived experiences inform perspectives and decisions, and that inclusion is built into how we support people and connect."

Collaboration with leadership is a cornerstone of this approach. Through open, respectful dialogue, the network works with senior management to share experiences, identify patterns and highlight what helps Black employees to do their best work.

The network promotes a number of inclusive initiatives that benefit all employees across PSPC.

One example is offering team learning opportunities that build awareness of systemic anti-Black racism and support more inclusive workplaces. Another initiative is the informal second-language practice program, "Jùmọ̀ Sọrọ̀," to help employees strengthen language skills.

"In the West African Yoruba language, 'Jùmọ̀ Sọrọ̀' means 'to talk together,'" Laura explains. "Participants can connect and practise their official languages in a welcoming, casual setting."

Building community

Through collaboration and innovation, the network creates spaces where people can connect and support one another.

"Community helps people feel seen and heard," Laura says. "When you can connect with something bigger than yourself, it can be empowering, especially during times of change or when navigating challenges."

Initiatives such as "Lights, Camera, Allyship!", an interactive event series featuring short films from the National Film Board of Canada, invite employees to explore topics related to anti-Black racism, discrimination, bias and inclusion.

Other initiatives, like organizing board game activities to build community and hosting events to commemorate Black History Month in Canada, help create informal opportunities for connection.

"It reminds us that learning from one another deepens our sense of community, and it builds a stronger culture when we encourage employees to participate in events within the department, their regions and their local communities," Laura says.

Looking ahead

For Black employees starting their careers, Laura offers a clear message: "Find opportunities to learn, ask questions and seek out mentors. Join a network, as the community can help you build confidence and perspective. You don't have to navigate your career alone."

She emphasizes that when people feel respected, supported and safe to be themselves, they do their best work, a reminder that the network invites employees, leaders and allies alike to take part in fostering a stronger, more inclusive PSPC.

To learn more about PSPC employees, projects and services making a difference for Canadians, read other articles on Our stories.