Shirley Gwendo-Waithaka is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker currently serving as a Family Therapist in the Outpatient Mental Health Service focusing on Child and Adolescent Mental Health at Shared Health-Soins Communs since June 2024. Additionally, Shirley holds the position of Tracked Fellow at Tracked Ltd and has previously contributed to the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority as a Psychosocial Support Specialist. Shirley's background includes extensive clinical experience, such as conducting virtual therapy sessions at Alli Therapy and developing a trauma-informed engagement model during a clinical internship with Alberta Health Services. Academic credentials comprise a Master of Social Work from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Social Work from William and Catherine Booth College, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Manitoba. Shirley's research endeavors at the Canada Council for the Arts focused on intersectionality and equity, further demonstrating a commitment to social justice and community empowerment.