Campus to Careers: Interested in a career in public policy or politics?

S P E A K E R S:

Shaneista Haye Senior Policy Advisor, The Canadian Human Rights Commission

is a passionate human rights advocate, public policy enthusiast and experienced facilitator. She is the Principal Consultant and Founder of SYH Human Rights and Diversity Consulting—a boutique firm dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers through an evidence-based, human rights-centered approach. She specializes in designing and delivering training, and advising on anti-racism initiatives to foster equity and belonging across organizations.

In addition to her consulting work, Shaneista currently serves as a Senior Policy Advisor at the Canadian Human Rights Commission, where she helps advance human rights through policy analysis, research, and strategic advice. She has over a decade of public service experience, advising senior government officials on key policy priorities—including increasing diversity in senior leadership, shaping inclusive financial sector policies, and driving systemic human rights reforms. Her previous roles include work with Alberta’s Ministries of Health and Education and the Department of Finance Canada.

Shaneista’s work is grounded in a strong legal foundation and a deep understanding of how systemic barriers and implicit biases are embedded in institutional policies, practices and decision-making. Her expertise enables her to critically assess laws, programs, and structures through an equity-informed lens.

She holds an LL.M. from the University of Ottawa, an LL.B. from the University of London (UK), an M.A. from the University of Toronto, and a B.A. from the University of Guelph.

Shaneista is passionate about cultivating inclusive environments and equipping others with the tools to achieve equitable outcomes. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring new adventures with her family, planning their next vacation, or getting lost in a good book!

Zachary Nixon, Ontario Regional Advisor, Office of the Prime Minister of Canada

is a Torontonian living in Ottawa and an alumni of U of T (2018) with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science.

He began his political journey working in the Constituency Office of Bill Blair, Member of Parliament for Scarborough Southwest. He later served in successive roles under Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Small Business and Economic Development, where he played an active role in supporting Canada's small business sector-especially during the critical period of the COVID-19 pandemic. His work during this time, particularly in helping small businesses weather unprecedented challenges, remains one of his proudest contributions to date. He later served as Director of Operations to Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business.

In July 2024, Zach joined the Office of the Prime Minister, initially serving under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and now continuing his service under Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Host or Publisher Department of Political Science, University of Toronto