Panel Member Bio's

Annette Pateman – Local Author

Annette Pateman was born in the UK to Jamaican parents. She grew up listening to Jamaican sayings and folklore. This is reflected in her poetry which centres on identity, race and relationships.

Annette holds a BSc in Biological Science, PGCE in Secondary Education and a PgDip in Applied Immunology. Annette now lives in Thunder Bay with her family, where she enjoys giving readings of her poetry, yoga and walking in nature.

Annette published her first collection of poetry ‘Spectrum’ in May 2020. She is currently undertaking research on fairy tales and folklore, with a grant from the Ontario Arts Council. She has recently published a children’s book ‘Anancy and the Turtle’ as well as her second collection of poetry and flash fiction, ‘Lover Lines’.

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Shannon Skinner – Co-owner of Salonki Salon & Ethnic Beauty Supply

Shannon Skinner is from the beautiful island of St. Lucía, and has lived in Thunder Bay for almost 10 years. Shannon is a licensed hair stylist at the highest level – Red Seal Journeyperson.

In February 2020, Shannon opened her salon which provides personal haircare services and hair and skin products to the afro and ethnic community in the city of Thunder bay.

 

 

 

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Annissea Hopkins – Co-Owner of Superior Hearing

Annissea Hopkins was born and raised in Thunder Bay; her parents came here from Guyana. Annissea specializes in Comprehensive Audiology Services not only through her business but to the greater community through her work in Health Care. Annissea and her partners opened one of the first private practice for hearing services in Thunder Bay 10 years ago.

 

 

 

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Sharon Bon – Owner of Dame Mas Dance Studio

Sharon Bon is the owner of the newly opened Dame Mas Dance Studio which provides online African and Latin dance classes as well as fitness classes. Dame Mas Dance opened in August 2020.

Sharon is originally from Toronto, ON. Her parents immigrated to Canada from Jamaica in the 60’s. For the last 21 years, Sharon has made Thunder Bay her home.

Sharon has a PhD in Nutritional Sciences and is a certified instructor in Kizomba, Zumba, Zumba Gold, and STRONG Nation.

Sharon is passionate and shares that passion with the community through the different professional roles she holds. Sharon holds a unique perspective as a new business owner that established her studio during the pandemic.