Speaker’s Bureau

Looking for someone to talk to your group about FASD? This Speaker’s Bureau was created to help Manitobans find local expert speakers on topics related to FASD. The speakers that you will find below all live in Manitoba and have experience giving talks, workshops and training related to a variety of topics that link to FASD. We hope that you find this a useful tool in connecting with a speaker that fits your needs. There is a brief amount of information provided on this site for each speaker; if you are interested in learning more, or booking a speaker, please contact them directly.

Please note that some speakers may require compensation for time, travel or other related costs; Manitoba FASD Coalition is not responsible for covering or regulating these costs. The speakers on this site have applied to be listed here and have been vetted by Manitoba FASD Coalition. Manitoba FASD Coalition does not provide or receive financial compensation for this listing. The views of the speakers may not be that of the Manitoba FASD Coalition. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of speakers available in Manitoba.

If you are a speaker specializing in FASD and would like to be listed on this page, please complete the application form and submit it by email to, coordinator@fasdd.koleyat.com.

We would like to hear from you, comments/suggestions can be emailed to coordinator@fasdd.koleyat.com.

Lia Braun is a retired educator who now provides contract Educational Consultant Services, especially in the area of FASD. Learn more.

Shannon Foster is a Registered Social Worker, having completed a Masters of Social Work degree and a Bachelor of Social Work degree at the University of Manitoba. She also earned an Advanced Bachelor of Arts degree, with a specialization in Psychology. She has gained her
experience working with children, youth and families over the last 10 years recognizing their strengths and empowering them to reach emotional, spiritual, and psychological well-being Learn More.

Twyla Gilroy is an FASD Diagnostic Coordinator with Prairie Mountain Health covering the Dauphin/Swan River Region, and is passionate about raising awareness and providing education to community and service providers about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Learn more.

Judi Heppner has worked for two decades in social services and health, including with families in which parents and/or children had FASD. Learn more.

Simon Laplante, originally from Quebec, has been living and working in Manitoba for 35 years as an educator. He has been a teacher, vice-principal, principal, assistant superintendent (Seine River School Division) and a professor at the Université de St-Boniface. Learn more.

Carie McIntosh works as a Children’s Special Services Case Manager assisting families with children with disabilities access resources, support, equipment and respite. Learn More.

New Directions FASD Family Support, Education and Counselling Program has a team of individuals from various professional and educational backgrounds, who work with families and the community to support children and youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Learn More.

Sherisse Picklyk Dear is a Community Liaison Counsellor for the Selkirk and area My Health Team and had previously held the position as the FASD Diagnostic Coordinator for ten years. Learn more.

Jocelyne LeBlanc Boulet, is a retired educator with extensive experience in the education system. As a mother raising a child with FASD, she recognizes the challenges that parents may face when working with the education system. In her retirement, Jocelyne has created Connecting Links, a consultation service which will attempt to provide guidance and clarity for those important school discussion. Read More