Fort Erie coalition launches ‘Inclusive Edge’ learning series this fall

Brent Jones
September 17, 2025 at 3:21 AM

The Fort Erie Coalition on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will host a three-part learning series this fall.

The program, titled ‘The Inclusive Edge: It’s a Good I.D.E.A.,’ will include two webinars and one in-person session, with registration set at $30 per person for all three sessions.

Jennifer Pennell-Ajie, executive assistant to the director and division coordinator with the Town of Fort Erie, told Fort Erie Radio in an emailed statement that the first two virtual events will be held September 18 and October 2, and the in-person session will follow on October 30.

“Even if someone cannot make the webinars, if they sign up and pay, they will get access to the video afterwards, and if they register after the first webinar, they will be sent the recording so they can get the full value of their purchase,” said Pennell-Ajie.

She noted that the series is aimed at small and medium-sized businesses, but anyone is welcome to attend.

The first webinar, which will run for one hour starting at noon, will feature certified public speaker Jeff A.D. Martin.

The second webinar, which will also run from noon until 1 p.m., will be led by Chris McQueen, chief administrative officer for the Town of Fort Erie.

The in-person event at the end of October is scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Fort Erie Leisureplex banquet hall. Doors open at 8 a.m., and the day will include a panel discussion and a collaborative session.

Pennell-Ajie said the coalition is made up of community volunteers who raised money through sponsorships for the series.

Sponsors listed on an event poster include Niagara Region, United Way Niagara, the Niagara Community Foundation, Meridian Credit Union, the Fort Erie Multicultural Centre, the South Niagara Chamber of Commerce, Little Red Coffee and the Town of Fort Erie.

Registration is available through Eventbrite.