top of page

Our Purpose

We co-create inclusive, transformative change by centring equity, relationships, and lived experience. We empower people and organizations to grow with intention and integrity through anti-oppressive, people-first strategies. We root success in inclusivity, care, and collective empowerment. 

circle of belonging logo (1).png
IMG_3221_edited_edited.jpg

Who We Are

Janeen (they/them) and Sydney (they/them)

Hi! We're a queer, neurodivergent couple committed to building a world that feels more just, more inclusive, and more human.

 

We met through our kids, who were best friends at daycare, and formed a deep friendship rooted in big discussions and shared values. Eventually, we fell in love. We share this because our work partnership is grounded in the same values as our life partnership — connection, curiosity, and care. 

​

Circle of Belonging began as a labour of love, rooted in our belief that real change is possible — and that it starts in relationship. We've both spent time in spaces that talked about equity but didn't live it. Places full of big promises and performative gestures, where people still ended up feeling like an afterthought. 

​

But we've also seen what's possible. We've learned from brilliant thinkers, elders, youth, and peers. We've felt what it's like to be part of spaces built on integrity and care. That's the kind of work we set out to do.

​

So, we built Circle of Belonging: a place where people and organizations can relate and grow with intention, authenticity, and joy — and where inclusion is something we practice, not perform.

​

Outside of work, you'll find us raising three hilarious, chaotic, brilliant, and powerful kids, wrangling a pack of weird pets, laughing through the mayhem, and staring lovingly at each other across tables at local restaurants or between songs at local shows. 

  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram

We are a settler-founded organization, operating from Amiskwaciy Waskahikan (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 Territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 4. As treaty people, we recognize and deeply respect that we live and work on the traditional territories of many First Nations, such as the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuliné (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and Niitsapi (Blackfoot) Peoples. 

 

We commit to demonstrating unwavering respect for and participating in community with Indigenous Peoples. We commit to learning and taking leadership from Indigenous experts. We will refer all work specific to Indigenous people and communities - including Truth and Reconciliation and Indigenous engagement work - to Indigenous individuals and organizations. We commit to inviting Indigenous experts into our work and, when they choose to contribute, we commit to approaching these partnerships with appropriate recognition, reciprocity, and care. 

 

We also commit to challenging white supremacy, racism, and settler colonialism in personal and professional spaces - every day, not just when it's convenient. 

​

We recognize that Land Acknowledgements are important, and that they can feel performative without meaningful, demonstrated commitment. Words without action are not enough., and trust is earned We commit to demonstrating our values through sustained action and ongoing accountability. We welcome dialogue and correction, and are open to and grateful for feedback on how we can do better. 

bottom of page