DEI: From Promise to Practicality
Digital Health Canada invites you to join this transformative webinar on November 20th, led by Zen Tharani, with expert panelists Gina Uppal and Steph Rebello. In the face of ongoing debates and the erosion of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) as a fundamental aspect of healthcare, this webinar addresses why DEI is critical in digital health and provides actionable steps for embedding DEI principles in everyday practice.
About the Webinar: With DEI gaining momentum, yet facing challenges in various sectors, healthcare must uphold DEI as a core component rather than an optional enhancement. This session will bridge the gap between DEI as a strategic goal and its practical application within digital health programs, ensuring that equitable practices are woven into the design, adoption, and delivery stages.
Attendees will learn about the Digital Health Equity Framework—a structured, customizable tool that ensures inclusion across all project phases. Drawing from real-world examples and frontline experiences, this balanced session combines a framework presentation and panel discussion, offering perspectives on:
- The evolution of DEI in digital health
- Building blocks for inclusive digital health programs
- Embedding DEI in the digital health ecosystem through co-design and community-driven insights
- Practical methods for moving DEI from promise to active, ongoing practice
Join us for this essential conversation as we move DEI from theory to action, supporting health equity and accessible innovation for all.
Speakers
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Zen Tharani
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Zen Tharani is a digital health leader and founder of Xenex Consulting Inc. (xenexconsulting.com), specializing in digital transformation and equity in healthcare. Known for his innovative approach, Zen combines decades of expertise in public health, strategy, and digital health with a deep commitment to innovation, diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a former Board Member at Digital Health Canada, he led the inclusion and development of a strategic DEI pillar in the organization's strategic plan. Zen has been invited to speak internationally including at the UN General Assembly's Digital Health Symposium. In addition to his consulting work, Zen uses his leadership and executive coach experience to specifically support executives leading healthcare organizations across Canada and beyond.
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Gina Uppal
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Gina Uppal is a visionary entrepreneur and founder of Baljiwan Productions Inc., a consultancy and executive coaching studio supporting womxn entrepreneurs and executives. With a decade of experience across healthcare, tech, and non-profits, Gina champions equity, social innovation, and systems change. Gina has worked with MaRS Discovery District, developed cross-sector labor research, and led Canada’s first Diversity & Inclusion report for the tech sector. Gina’s work spans digital transformation and strategic planning, supporting organizations like Meta Canada, Google News Initiative, and the Senate of Canada.
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Stephanie Rebello
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Stephanie Rebello is a health equity strategist and advocate dedicated to fostering inclusive healthcare systems through community engagement and evidence-based approaches. With a strong foundation in digital health and public policy, Stephanie’s work emphasizes co-design and equity-focused frameworks that center patient and community voices. Stephanie is a recognized speaker and consultant on digital health transformation and is committed to creating accessible, impactful healthcare solutions that serve all communities.
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