Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

OLINDA MAZENGWE

Brampton,ON

Summary

Equity-driven leader with 10+ years of progressive experience in human and social services, demonstrating expertise in coaching and mentoring staff, fostering inclusive teams, and driving operational improvements within client-centered environments. Proven track record of leading change management initiatives, notably as a divisional change champion during the Employment Services Transformation (EST), with a consistent commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles, including Confronting Anti-Black Racism (CABR) and Indigenous Reconciliation. Adept in data-informed decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring service delivery compliance and innovation. Excels in cultivating collaborative environments and empowering teams to achieve organizational objectives.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Caseworker

Toronto Employment and Social Services
01.2021 - Current
  • Co-led a Community of Practice of 8 staff, recognized as "change champions" during the Employment Services Transformation (EST), guiding frontline teams in adopting the new Integrated Employment Services (IES) model
  • Developed and implemented peer-led training and workflow tools, enhancing case planning and aligning team performance with provincial and divisional standards
  • Mentored 10+ colleagues in data dashboard utilization, caseload management strategies, and reflective practice, promoting client-centered and compliant decision-making
  • Facilitated equity-focused dialogues on CABR and Indigenous Reconciliation within teams, fostering psychological safety and promoting an inclusive learning environment
  • Navigated complex service delivery challenges, demonstrating sound judgment in balancing compliance, risk management, and diverse client needs in a high-volume setting.

Peel Public Health Harm Reduction Lead
06.2021 - Current
  • Led harm reduction outreach, education, and safety planning initiatives for underserved communities, building trust in stigmatized environments
  • Contributed to the adaptation of COVID-19 programs and co-developed the Nelson Street Drop-In Centre to address urgent health and housing needs
  • Mentored new hires on field protocols, client engagement, and emotional safety, contributing to effective onboarding and peer development
  • Ensured program integrity through accurate data entry, adherence to public health policy, and alignment with provincial standards
  • HEALTH AND SAFETY LEADERSHIP
  • Championed the Divisional Health and Safety Program, conducting inspections and contributing to risk prevention strategies
  • Delivered health and safety presentations in team meetings, enhancing awareness and reinforcing staff responsibility for safe environments
  • Recognized at the 2024 Joint Health and Safety Event for “Be the Change” contributions and leadership in health and safety promotion
  • Applied psychological safety principles to de-escalate difficult client situations and support staff well-being in high-pressure environments.

Street Outreach Worker

Streets to Homes
09.2019 - 06.2021
  • Led onboarding and provided field mentorship for new outreach workers, building trauma-informed teams skilled in crisis response and housing stabilization
  • Collaborated with harm reduction, mental health, and housing partners to deliver coordinated outreach services to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness
  • Contributed to divisional service design by providing frontline feedback, identifying service gaps, and promoting equity-informed planning
  • Actively participated in the Street to Homes Black Staff Network, promoting staff well-being and anti-oppressive practices
  • Advocated for culturally appropriate, client-driven services aligned with CABR and Reconciliation Plan goals, particularly for Black and Indigenous populations.

Education

Master of Arts - Social Justice Education

University of Toronto (OISE)
01.2019

Bachelor of Arts - Equity Studies

University of Toronto (New College)
01.2013

Specialized - public policy

Skills

  • TECHNICAL & POLICY EXPERTISE
  • Systems:
  • SAMS, Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel Dashboards)
  • Policy: Ontario Works Act, OHSA, AODA, Human Rights Code
  • Skills: Case file audits, service planning, data analysis, staff coaching, performance monitoring, EDI-informed service delivery

Affiliations

University of Toronto – School of Continuing Studies: Project Management Course (89%), Public Speaking & Presentation Skills (90%)

Accomplishments

  • Spearheaded change management initiatives during EST and IES implementation, facilitating adaptation across frontline teams
  • Developed peer-coaching tools adopted across TESS teams, improving workflow efficiency and knowledge sharing
  • Initiated and led equity-based staff discussions on CABR and Reconciliation, fostering a more inclusive workplace culture
  • Played a key role in the rapid COVID-19 response through the successful launch of a safe drop-in service
  • Mentored numerous new hires across multiple roles, contributing to effective team integration and skill development.

Timeline

Peel Public Health Harm Reduction Lead
06.2021 - Current

Caseworker

Toronto Employment and Social Services
01.2021 - Current

Street Outreach Worker

Streets to Homes
09.2019 - 06.2021

Master of Arts - Social Justice Education

University of Toronto (OISE)

Bachelor of Arts - Equity Studies

University of Toronto (New College)

Specialized - public policy

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OLINDA MAZENGWE