I’m Omayra Issa, a Canadian journalist and changemaker
I am a reporter and anchor at CPAC and public speaker. I’m also a frequent lecturer, panelist, moderator, and keynote speaker at institutions, colleges, and universities in Canada and internationally.
Born in Morocco and raised in Niger, I’m a global citizen fluent in five languages. I mentor journalists across Canada and lead innovative initiatives that foster equity, inclusion, representation, and belonging.
I was raised in a family dedicated to public service, and my work is driven by my desire to make a change in the world. My grandmother was a women’s and girls’ rights advocate for 40 years. She inspired my interest in the world around me and my dedication to strengthening communities.
I believe that the combination of people, place, and perspective can inspire collective change. I’ve interviewed business leaders, politicians, researchers, and everyone in between. I’ve facilitated hundreds of high-level panel discussions in French and English in Canada and across the world, including at the African Union. I’m endlessly interested in uncovering human stories that change systems. Leading complex conversations takes authenticity and openness, and my global perspective helps me forge strong relationships across diverse communities worldwide.
Lighting the spark for change through impactful storytelling
In a rapidly evolving media landscape, I go beyond the status quo. I have 15 years of experience in using large-scale narratives on tv, radio, and digital platforms to share powerful stories. My work leading national conversations on diversity and inclusion has been recognized across Canada.
I’ve been ranked one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch, and was nominated for a YWCA Women of Distinction Award. In 2022 I was awarded a Southam Fellowship at Massey College at the University of Toronto in 2022, and a University of Alberta Alumni Award for my contributions to the community.
I previously served as a National Reporter for CBC/Radio-Canada, Canada’s national broadcaster, where I was the co-creator and co-producer of CBC’s Black on the Prairies. This ground-breaking project and teaching guide contributed to Canada’s national story, sharing the perspective of Black Canadians on the prairies. The project garnered international attention and won several awards, including a national RTDNA and a Digital Publishing Award.
I love nothing more than contributing to communities in new and innovative ways. I’m proud to facilitate important conversations around the globe. I hold space for people to generate ideas and I honour the intricacies that make them who they are. I can help you turn your vision into powerful change.