Shari Graydon

Founder of Informed Opinions, Award-winning Author

An award-winning author, women’s advocate and speaker with over  25 years of experience on both sides of the microphone, Shari Graydon founded and currently leads Informed Opinions, a non-profit project of Media Action working to amplify women’s voices since 2010.

A former newspaper columnist, TV producer and commentator for CBC, she also served as press secretary to a provincial premier, and as president of Media Action (formally called Media Watch). Shari has degrees in Theatre and Communications from University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, where she also taught communications and presentation skills. She published two award-winning, best-selling media literacy books for youth, has written speeches for public officials, and delivered communications and media training for public and private sector organizations across Canada.

Shari received the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons’ Case for her advocacy on behalf of women and was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women. Royalties from her edited collection, I Feel Great about My Hands – and Other Unexpected Joys of Aging, benefits Informed Opinions. Her newest book, OMG! What if I really AM the best person? is part of her grand plan to bridge the gender gap in public discourse by 2025 to make Canada more democratic. Following the keynote address, you can find her book, OMG! What if I really AM the best person? available for purchase in the BSU Bookstore virtual booth in the expo hall.