Shirley (Sunny) Soleil is a consultant and trainer with more than 25 years experience in the private sector. The founder of the Invisible Disabilities Association of Canada, she has a solid background in business and advocacy.

In 2004, Shirley launched her private practice based in Wolfville, NS. In her work as a counselor, tutor, facilitator and trainer, Shirley offers her clients a broad skills base. She is also an avid writer specifically on advocacy issues.

Shirley has experience in a vast array of leadership and advocacy arenas. These include conducting research, developing programs, editing newsletters, and leading groups.

Her accomplishments include hosting the TV show Shirley & You, developing the manual So You Want To Be A Support Group Leader, the production of a series of self-help videos, and her participation in heightening discussion around issues related to advocacy on a national level.

As a consultant, Shirley believes in the importance of establishing open dialogue around the challenges we face in optimizing our health and wellness both in the workplace and at home.

Whether you are looking to enhance the standards for occupational health and safety in your workplace, to develop policy that will support your business’ growth, or to explore other areas, Shirley’s approach is to work in collaboration with your team to bring about the results you desire.

PUBLICATIONS

 Contributing writer for the following publications:
 The Canadian Baptist
 The Canning Gazette
 The Invisible Made Visible
 The Messenger
 Private Practitioners Chapter Bulletin
 Fibromyalgia/Myofascial Pain Syndrome/TMJ
(Part of a course package entitled Life Care Planning),
Carleton University.s Sprott School of Business, August 2004
Beginnings, Invisible Disabilities Association of Canada, May 2000

My Publications
"Harley Hazelwood's Contribution to Assisting
People in Meeting Their Needs For Food"
A report on a disabled person’s contribution to public life in Canada, the condition set out as part of the Centennial Flame Research Award.

So You Want to be a Leader?
A Manual for Leaders of Support Groups.
Nova Scotia Department of Health Project, 1998 (See http//:www.nsnet.org/idacan)

Workshops/Training Sessions
Advocacy
Chronic disability/illness and the workplace /Sick Building Syndrome
Environmental sensitivities in the schools
Empowered women
Organic farming/pesticides
Living with chronic illness/pain/disability; alternative treatments for chronic illnesses
Self esteem (includes topics such as body image and communication skills)
Communicating with doctors and lawyers
Leadership training
Help for the caregiver
Study skills
Dealing with issues with Occupational Health and Safety
Completing Applications for CPD, LTD and WCB and appeals