About.

Our legal profession is at the intersection of a younger, diverse workforce and a traditional boardroom culture that leaves many out of the advancement equation.  Lawyers of every generation and background face tough dilemmas when implementing tangible and measurable diversity initiatives, and building success on their own terms. A leader and trailblazer, Charlene Theodore is held in high esteem for her ability to find practical solutions to complex legal issues, as well as the most challenging issues facing the bar and the justice system today. An engaging speaker armed with compassion, Ms. Theodore is sought after by those who want to shift perspectives and change the ways leaders and employees think.

Ms. Theodore draws on her experience as a lawyer who has practiced international human rights, labour and employment law. She started her career as a human rights lawyer, appearing before administrative tribunals and various levels of court, including Canada’s Federal Court of Appeal.  She also represented the interests of Canadians of African descent before federal and provincial legislative committees, as well as United Nations human rights treaty bodies. She then focused her practice on labour and employment law, specializing in complex workplace and union challenges.  Her advocacy extends beyond the courtroom to society at large through her dedication to community service.

In 2020, Ms. Theodore was named one of Canada’s 25 Most Influential Lawyers by Canadian Lawyer Magazine and was elected as President of the Ontario Bar Association (OBA), the first Black lawyer and the 10th woman to hold the Office since its founding in 1907. As OBA President, she launched a series of initiatives for law firms and Corporate Canada to re-imagine workplaces - building productive, profitable, healthy, diverse and inclusive work environments for all.

Her leadership journey at the OBA has inspired countless lawyers who recognize the value of having women of colour in top leadership positions. 

Starting as a committee member, her grassroots and collaborative advocacy saw her become a  leading light in the organization. Rising through a series of elected and appointed positions, she emerged as a ringleader of positive change throughout the  legal industry for women and people of colour. She introduced a number of groundbreaking change initiatives including, “Diversity in Leadership; What Great Organizations Can Do Now” and the OBA’s “Inclusive Leaders” professional development program.   

Ms. Theodore is also a member and former Director of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL), Canada’s largest national association of Black lawyers and judges.  

Ms. Theodore is a member of the Top 40 Advisory Board, a body that reflects the diversity and leadership excellence in Canadian business, and identifies outstanding young business leaders for Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 Award.

These times of change are our collective opportunity to excel, and shape the future of the legal profession. Ms. Theodore’s presentations, keynotes, and workshops tackle themes of inclusion, mentorship, workplace change management and the power that lawyers have to shape the future of our diverse society.  

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