Gina Marie is a vibrant and successful young woman who I feel very blessed to know. I met Gina through her fun-loving sister, my former co-worker, Amanda. Even before I learned about everything Gina is involved in, I already loved her for her kind heart and care-free, bubbly personality.

In addition to being such a stand-up individual, she is also an Occupational Therapist at The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, has a private practice for Life and Health Coaching, and is a Co-Founder of a Toronto community called Mixed in the Six. WOW!

Just one of the above accolades would be enough for a feature in my Boss Lady Buzz Series, but the fact that she does all three really shows her character.

Let’s start with Mixed in the Six

Co-founders, Gina Marie (Filipino & Canadian) and Haan (Romanian & Chinese), created Mixed in the Six with a mission of building community for mixed people in Toronto. Gina and Haan enjoy “hosting events, and bringing people together through food, music, philanthropy and good vibes.”

Mixed in the Six has had several successful events including being part of Multiculturalism Week and even a sold-out comedy show at The Gladstone!

At these events, they also speak about important topics, such as “raising awareness for bone marrow donation and blood donation which has a unique connection to the mixed-race community.”

Gina dreams of someday having a “multiracial themed festival that celebrates our diverse ethnicities that make us so unique as a community and as a country.”

With her dedication, passion and knowledge, I know Gina will do amazing things with Mixed in the Six!

Take a look at this amazing community:

Global News featured Mixed in the Six on Multiculturalism Day!

Amazing article about Mixed in the Six in The Star!

Mixed in the Six on CBC Metro Morning!

Upcoming Event! Aug 11 Pizza in the Park

Life & Health Coaching

Gina completed the Elite Speakers Academy course under the guidance of mentor Armin Shafee. In her talks and workshops, Gina shares tools and lessons that she has learned throughout her life and as a result of past trials and traumatic experiences.

The healing and recovery process that I have gone through has really given me a lot of strength and clarity with regards to my mindset, how I treat my body and how I love and care for myself and others. I think it’s best to share the lessons from your journey and your wisdom with others because at the end of the day we are one human family and we all want each other to succeed.” – Gina Marie

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Topics that Gina covers in her talks/workshops are tailored for each audience and include:

Mind/Body/Spirit Connection
Mental Health
Recovery
Overcoming
Meditation
Mindset
Language
Community

Gina Marie’s Upcoming Event –

Creating Your Self-Love Manifesto

Occupational Therapist at CAMH

For almost a decade, I have worked with young adults who are recovering from serious mental illness and it is by far one of my truest passions. I guide people towards careers, jobs, educational programs and volunteer roles that are meaningful to each person. I also empower people to express and care for themselves through music, art, health and fitness. – Gina Marie

Gina has been through some trying and traumatic events in her short life, including mental health struggles and a very bad car accident. She noticed that when people got wind about the car accident, they were immediately there for her, which she was extremely grateful for. However, when dealing with her mental health, she said it was harder to reach out. This made it a very isolating and lonely experience.

It just goes to show that the same person can experience something of almost the same magnitude and it’s not treated the same. The moral of the story is that mental health really is health too. It’s really important to be mindful of when someone may be struggling from mental health issues because it may not be obvious. It’s always good to ask, show compassion, hold space and reach out to people if you haven’t heard from them. Not all illnesses and challenges are seen and obvious with the naked eye. – Gina Marie