Help Me Fight Workplace Misconduct at Sheridan College

Sylvia Kmiecik is organizing this fundraiser.

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As many of you know, I’ve faced significant adversity over the past few years, including workplace harassment that led to my unjust termination. After much reflection, I’ve decided to take legal action in Superior Court—not just for myself, but for others who face similar injustices.

Pursuing this case is costly, and I’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover legal fees and regain financial stability. Your support, whether through a donation or by sharing my story, would mean the world to me. Every contribution, no matter the amount, brings me closer to achieving justice and creating safer workplaces for others.

How You Can Help

✅ Donate: Every dollar goes directly toward legal fees and securing justice.

✅ Share: Please share my campaign with your network to spread the word.

Your kindness and generosity will not only provide financial assistance but also give me the strength and hope I need to fight this battle.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer.

With gratitude,

Sylvia Kmiecik and Family

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To learn more about my personal career journey and hardships please continue reading below.

How Your Donations Will Help

I am raising $10,000 to cover the retainer for my Superior Court legal battle against Sheridan College. My wrongful termination and the retaliation I faced after reporting workplace harassment have left me financially devastated. This legal fight is not just for me—it’s about holding institutions accountable so others don’t suffer the same injustice.

Beyond my case, I am committed to helping others who have experienced workplace discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. A portion of the funds will go toward launching a non-profit organization dedicated to:

✅ Providing resources and support to those facing workplace injustice

✅ Connecting individuals with legal guidance and mental health professionals

✅ Advocating for stronger workplace protections through awareness and policy change

Your donation doesn’t just help me—it helps build a foundation for justice for others who feel powerless in the face of systemic failures. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Thank you for believing in this cause. ❤️

About Me

I have always been passionate about workplace safety, integrity, fair recognition, and equitable compensation while fostering positive and inclusive work environments. Unfortunately, my professional journey took a devastating turn at Sheridan College when I faced unjust treatment after reporting inappropriate behavior by senior manager Howard Peart.

Part of my story and journey up until this point has been a mix of challenges, growth, and resilience. From facing personal struggles and an abusive relationship to overcoming professional hurdles, I’ve learned to push forward despite the setbacks. I’ve worked hard to better myself and contribute to those around me, including through various professional roles and relationships. While navigating difficult situations at work and at home, I’ve always tried to maintain my sense of self and determination. Each step, from completing my studies to managing leadership roles, has been part of the journey that has shaped me into who I am today.

This is more than my story—it’s a stand against workplace harassment and systemic failures affecting countless professionals. I am pursuing justice through the Superior Court to ensure no one else faces similar mistreatment.

I need your help to make this possible. Any donation, big or small, will support my fight to challenge toxic workplaces and hold perpetrators accountable. This endeavor requires a $10K retainer for my case, and as I’m still recovering and unable to work, your support is crucial.

Together, we can combat abusive managers and create safer, fairer workplaces. Thank you for standing with me.

To learn more about my story please read further. I have also included a brief video on my business Youtube channel @TheLadyInstructor.

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Biography

Hello, my name is Sylvia Kmiecik. I am 36 years old, born on February 1st, 1989, and I'm a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with over 15 years of diverse work experience. My career began at the age of 17, and since then, I’ve worked in various fields, always striving for excellence. I am a proud graduate of McMaster University, where I earned my degree in Political Science.

Throughout these ups and downs, my mother remained my greatest supporter. Despite facing her own challenges, she always wanted the best for me and instilled in me a strong sense of self-worth, reminding me that I was not only valuable but also a capable woman. Although she didn’t believe I needed a university education to achieve my dreams, I pursued higher education because I’ve always had a passion for learning.

I am of Polish descent, born and raised in Canada by my immigrant parents who came here seeking better economic opportunities. However, my upbringing was marked by many challenges. My father passed away from cancer when I was 13 years old, leaving my mother a widowed, single parent. She never remarried and bore the full responsibility of our family’s financial and emotional burdens.

Throughout her marriage, she was financially abused—my father frequently took out loans and mortgages in her name without her consent, leaving her to shoulder the household expenses while managing all domestic duties. Despite these struggles, my father was well-regarded in the community as a respected real estate agent, with many viewing him as a hero. Only recently, I learned that he had a child outside of our family, kept secret for years, and we are just beginning to uncover the truth about his hidden life.

Growing up, my siblings and I faced emotional and financial hardship. We often struggled to have clothes on our backs and food on our table. My mother, despite enduring neglect and manipulation, worked tirelessly to maintain our home, even as my father sought to undermine her at every turn—calling her 'crazy' and turning us children against her. His death, in a way, marked the end of a deeply toxic chapter. Thankfully, despite his attempts to cancel his life insurance policy to leave my mother with nothing, she was able to access some of the funds after his passing. These funds offered us some stability, but they could not undo the damage.

My father’s own life was marked by difficulties; he suffered physical abuse as a child, and his mother passed away the same day I was born. He showed me kindness and affection, treating me as the 'apple of his eye,' but his treatment of my mother was often cruel and manipulative. At his funeral, despite a large turnout, not one person acknowledged the pain and suffering he inflicted on our family; instead, he was portrayed as a community hero, a role far from the reality we lived.

Mental health challenges have also deeply affected my family. Both of my brothers have been diagnosed with severe mental illnesses—ranging from suicidal depression to schizophrenia. My mother also has schizophrenia on her medical record. For many years, I carried the emotional and physical burdens of our household, while my mother took on the overwhelming financial responsibilities. She fought for years to receive disability and CPP payments from the Canadian government after working as an immigration officer for over 25 years, eventually succeeding her legal battle with my support.

Our financial situation was dire. We relied on food banks, and my mother's credit cards were often maxed out. My brothers worked when they could, all while pursuing their education. Wally completed a degree in English Literature and Philosophy from the University of Toronto, a testament to his dedication and resilience despite the many challenges he faced. Andrew, who had always aimed high, finished valedictorian of high school and completed one of the most challenging programs offered at the University of Toronto—Electrical Engineering. He earned his Iron Ring, a significant symbol of his qualifications and expertise in the field.

Andrew’s professional journey took him to Silicon Valley, where he worked at Meta on groundbreaking projects, such as developing 3D AR glasses for medical purposes. However, due to visa challenges and a lack of familial support, his situation deteriorated, leading to his first psychotic episode. He did everything he could to maintain his job, even renting equipment to clean the office carpets, but he eventually lost his work visa and returned home without the stability he had hoped to achieve.

Through all these experiences, I have fought to maintain my stability and career. During my time at Sheridan College, my commitment to integrity and a safe work environment led to a series of events that have now brought me to this legal battle. This journey is not only about my experience; it’s about ensuring justice prevails so that no one else has to endure similar injustices in the workplace. Ultimately, my goal is to enhance the quality of life both in Canada and globally, in the home and workplace, by advocating for conflict resolution services, financial assistance, and comprehensive health and wellness programs.

I’m reaching out personally for support because I cannot help others effectively if I am not stable, both financially and in terms of well-being. During my time as Project Lead on a groundbreaking $2 million Artificial Intelligence initiative at the SIRT Centre, Pinewood Studios, under Sheridan College, I faced sexual harassment that derailed my career. Hired on January 3, 2023, for my expertise, my role shifted dramatically just three months when a new male manager, Howard Peart, was brought on board.

Career Journey

After finishing my degree at McMaster University, I faced significant challenges landing a job. Many of these struggles stemmed from biases related to my appearance, with one interviewer bluntly telling me that I was “too pretty to be taken seriously.” Frustrated by these obstacles, I unexpectedly found myself in background acting and modeling for various media, including TV shows, movies, music videos, and commercials. In some instances, I even played main or side characters. I attended fashion shows, networked with diverse groups in downtown Toronto, and began building my professional and social connections. More about these experiences can be found in my paid newsletter, The Social Tea Biscuit.

Despite the opportunities, I eventually realized that the entertainment industry didn’t align with my values. I chose to move on, though it was another difficult job search. I handed out countless resumes and took whatever work I could get. This included stints as a hostess at Boston Pizza and later at Battaglia’s grocery store in Lorne Park. My first more professional role was at Heys International, which I secured with help from the YMCA.

My appearance seemed to remain an underlying obstacle throughout these early career stages. However, a stroke of luck led me to the cooperative insurance sector, where I began my position as a licensed insurance representative with The Cooperators on September 28, 2015. I worked there until I eventually left due to threats from a previous manager, whom I had a good relationship with for four years. I speak about this also in my paid newsletter but for brevity I'm not going into full detail. His name was Deepinder "Dee" Sekhon. We were close friends, and I supported him in various capacities. However, something seemed to trigger his ego, leading him to damage my reputation by spreading false rumors that I had borderline personality disorder—a diagnosis he had no qualifications to make. When these rumors didn’t have the intended impact, he escalated his efforts, attempting to sabotage my work performance. He manipulated the phone system, forcing multiple calls into my queue, leading to dropped calls and potential grounds for automatic dismissal. Thankfully, a new manager investigated my claims and confirmed his misconduct. But even with this validation, the harassment didn’t stop. Feeling trapped and exhausted, I requested medical leave due to daily panic attacks, but this was denied, leading to my forced departure through what is known as “constructive dismissal”—a tactic that is illegal.

At that point, I lacked the emotional and physical energy to engage in a legal battle. My life was in turmoil: I was in an abusive relationship, Andrew was battling schizophrenia, Wally was struggling with severe depression, and my mother was losing her eyesight. I did consult a lawyer who confirmed the illegality of my dismissal, advising that I could pursue a case when ready. For the time being, I chose to move forward, attempting to make the best of the situation.

I officially resigned from The Cooperators on August 25th, 2021, after my medical leave was denied. During my time at The Cooperators, I wore many hats, including being elected as the President of the Social Committee. I volunteered to organize events, and even developed an AI-based QR check-in system to improve the efficiency of member registration—streamlining processes for 500 members so they could return to work more promptly. Despite my contributions, including being nominated for a BRAVO award, I never received a promotion. My feedback, metrics, and enthusiasm didn’t seem to matter, and I was repeatedly told I wasn’t "ready yet." This lack of recognition eventually forced me to move on.

Sheridan College seemed promising, especially with the encouragement from their marketing team that "better was coming." I enrolled in Sheridan College’s Project Management program and started on September 7, 2021, hoping to advance my skills and gain a formal credential that would allow me to be recognized for my experience. I was fortunate to receive unemployment insurance during my time in the program, thanks to the HR department confirming my account of the toxic work environment I endured at The Cooperators. This support allowed me to complete the eight-month project management program while facing personal challenges. Andrew’s schizophrenia worsened during this time, leading to frequent hospital visits, but I remained committed to my studies. I never missed a class, prepared diligently for group projects, and fulfilled my commitments despite the strain. Some days, I struggled to even shower or dress properly, yet I showed up because I didn't want to let my classmates down. Ultimately, I graduated with honors on April 22, 2022.

Immediately after graduation, I secured a co-op position with an early-stage startup focused on helping families and children build stronger emotional and mental bonds through educational activities—something that aligned with my values. Unfortunately, the startup was unable to secure the necessary funding, leading to another period of unemployment from August 2022 to December 2022. I was thankfully able to receive unemployment insurance during this time.

My Arrival at SIRT Centre in Pinewood Studios, Toronto, ON

In January 2023, through intense networking and a stroke of luck, I finally secured a new role at the SIRT Centre. I was specifically selected to lead Canada’s first $2 million Artificial Intelligence project. This opportunity was a turning point, with David and Bronwyn showing full confidence in my abilities. Bronwyn, who took me under her wing, emphasized the importance of spending taxpayer money responsibly, and due to budget limitations, I was given an older MacBook instead of a new one. This decision disheartened me, but I understood the constraints. Before Bronwyn went on maternity leave in March, Howard Peart was brought in to fill her role temporarily. I had applied for Bronwyn’s position, but she explained that I lacked sufficient experience. Though I disagreed, I respected her judgment and focused on the massive project I was responsible for.

Once Bronwyn left, Howard began asking a lot of strange questions. He emphasized the fame I would receive if the project succeeded, looking at me with hungry eyes, as if he wanted to steal that recognition for himself. He constantly inquired about where he fit into the project and expressed a desire to get his name associated with it. This behavior was odd to me; neither Bronwyn nor David had acted this way. While both acknowledged the project's significance, they approached it with humility and a sense of honor, whereas Howard seemed solely focused on the publicity.

I wasn’t interested in the fame; my priority was ensuring the project's success. Although $2 million seemed like a substantial amount, it felt manageable once I understood how the budget was being distributed, especially after conversations with a woman in the finance department with whom I grew close. We often chatted on Fridays, where she shared insights about the project's historical context and current status, which was already approximately a year behind schedule. The budget was tight, and we had to be meticulous about how the remaining funds were allocated.

I learned that the center was running a significant deficit as a not-for-profit, relying solely on government grants to support small businesses in injecting innovation through arts and technology. She also mentioned that Howard was behaving strangely towards her, often forcibly interrogating her about tasks that fell under my responsibility. I had been open with him, so there was no reason for him to act that way toward my colleague. He would complain about her to me, unaware that we were friends.

He instigated drama that didn’t exist, as we all got along well. The environment had been somewhat chaotic and stressful, which is typical for jobs like ours when you’re pressed for time and operating at a deficit, but we were managing. Howard disrupted the center’s workflow, making people uncomfortable and eventually attempting to take the entire project from me as if I wouldn’t notice.

At this point, I reported his behavior to HR on April 28, 2023 at the Oakville Campus during the NSERC event. I was informed of a team meeting that day that I never received an invite for. I first noticed Howard began excluding me from team meetings. I was the only one absent, even though I was sitting in the same room as his PowerPoint presentation, while everyone asked about my whereabouts.

Howard’s arrival introduced a challenging dynamic. Although I continued to focus on my responsibilities as best I could while I was still there and forcibly working remotely to avoid interacting with him and continuing to schedule meetings with my teams all over Ontario and Quebec. I was well loved by my team members and the clients I worked with. And many were very sad to hear of the news. Some even left immediately after me when they realized the toxicity themselves. I took my responsibility seriously, working tirelessly to ensure the not only the project’s success but also my team's well-being and to make a meaningful impact to the industry.

My Introductory Welcome Meeting: January 2023: Before Howard

This screenshot captures one of our first team meetings, held to introduce me to everyone at the center upon my arrival in January 2023. The team was showing genuine excitement to have me on board and welcomed my experience, particularly my background in Montessori and, even more so, psychology, which many of them shared from their time at U of T. While several team members tried to warn me about the toxic environment, I felt that nothing could compare to what I had already faced with Deepinder Sekhon at Cooperators Insurance, Andrew’s schizophrenic episode during my project management certificate program, and the challenges of life in general. I chose not to disclose any of this to my colleagues, as I did not want anyone's sympathy. I was there to do a good job and share my strengths, not my weaknesses.

I had my share of disagreements and clashes of minds with some of the people there, especially Cindy. However, we maintained mutual respect for one another. I believe conflict can be constructive as long as both parties approach it as adults, being straightforward about what we struggle to accept in each other.

Cindy and I bonded over the fact that we both graduated from Sheridan's project management program. I noticed that she began to look out for me once she realized I had no ill intentions, and I earned her trust. Although I had just completed the course, she wanted to show me around, but I found her to be less effective as a trainer or teacher. I don't believe she had the appropriate knowledge to pass on to me. The work environment at Sheridan College is very siloed, with individuals reluctant to share ownership of their projects. This behavior deeply contradicts Sheridan's claim of being Forbes' #1 employer and its supposed prioritization of students. My experience did not reflect this commitment, leading me to question their status as an employer. There seemed to be a significant disconnect.

From our first interaction on April 14, 2023, I sensed something was deeply wrong. Despite expressing concerns, Howard was hired, and the situation escalated quickly. During our first meeting, he made inappropriate comments, physically touched me, and even displayed grotesque behavior, including an erection while sitting beside me—this occurred in an area under video and audio surveillance, and I had a witness to his actions.

I immediately reported the incident, and although an investigation was conducted, he denied everything. Shockingly, I was terminated for "not cooperating" with him on May 8, 2023—just three days short of qualifying for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. I received no severance, minimal mental health support, and was denied a reference letter despite my excellent performance. As a result, the entire project failed, wasting taxpayer money, and I have struggled to find employment since.

Additional Context:

As the only working member in my household, my situation is even more challenging. Both of my brothers live with severe mental illnesses, and my mother is partially blind. Each of them has faced workplace harassment and bullying, which have contributed to their current disabilities and conditions. I was the only one left standing, shouldering the responsibility of providing for my family while navigating this trauma.

This is not the first time I’ve faced such a situation; I had previously experienced a similar workplace incident where my life was threatened, forcing me to exit that position. I reported that situation, too, and it was investigated, but the trauma from that experience lingered. Now, I find myself confronting this distressing pattern yet again at Sheridan College, where I have to deal with the reality that Howard Peart, who is married, has been able to perpetuate this behavior without consequence. I want to be clear: I have no interest in Howard or anyone in the workplace; I have very strict boundaries. I think Howard is disgusting. He works at Honeywell and currently lives in Brampton. I have contacted their HR department to inform them of his behaviour.

My Previous Manager of 4 years at The Cooperators

This is Deepinder "Dee" Sekhon, my previous manager for four years. Dee is married and never exhibited any inappropriate sexual behaviour toward me. In fact, he educated me on the seriousness of illegal sexual harassment in the workplace and its detrimental effects on women. He often corrected my coworkers when they made inappropriate remarks to me.

He was my previous manager of 4 years who threatened my life in the workplace. His name is Dee Sekhon.

Recent Incidents:

First Hospital Visit

As a result of my experiences, on August 9, 2024, I was picked up at my family home by police officers and taken to the Credit Valley Acute Mental Ward after trying to voice my concerns both online and in person to my family members. Although I was cleared of any mental illness, it was noted that I had endured a traumatic and stressful experience. I underwent several tests, including a drug test and an ECG, both of which deemed my heart healthy after spending a few hours there.

The quality of care at this particular facility varied depending on the doctor you saw, their specialty, and their most recent knowledge and research on relevant topics. I also found that gender played a role in the care received. I consider myself fortunate.

I recorded my recollection of events after returning from the hospital to document my experience in case my memory faded. The recording is posted on my business YouTube account, The Lady Instructor, which aims to raise awareness about women's wellness and research as an advocate for this important cause.

Second Hospital Visit

On August 27, 2024, I was forcefully arrested at 3 AM at my apartment after posting online about my grief and expressing thoughts about ending my life. I later learned that this call to the authorities had been made by my mother, who denied all allegations of her involvement. After accessing my medical records, I confirmed her role in this incident, which she continued to deny. I remained in observation for 24 hours, during which I was cleared. However, I took the opportunity to investigate the environment and interactions with police officiers, mental health nurses and doctors, gaining insight into what my brothers and other patients might have experienced. I made notes during this time and plan to file them with the medical board and police board of commissions at a later date.

These are the injuries I sustained as a result of the forcible arrest without cause or warrant. It seems there was a misunderstanding about the intention of my creative expression and writing.

I had bruises on my leg from when Officer Hill slammed me to the ground after I pushed him off of me. He pressed his knee into my back, restricting my ability to breathe. This use of excessive force was unwarranted, especially considering I was sleeping peacefully and not causing harm to anyone, including myself. Officer Taylor assisted officer Hill and both refused to listen to me or explain what they were doing at my apartment. I wish I hadn't open the door for them after their repeated loud knocking at 3 am.

I nearly sustained a broken right thumb as a result of this incident. These are the markings from the Peerless, Springfield handcuffs.

My mother visited me and brought my business t-shirt, hoping it would lift my spirits, along with other belongings to help me feel more comfortable.

This is the largest bruise on the back of my arm, caused when they forcibly grabbed me to pin me down.

My brother Andrew had a similar experience of being arrested in the middle of the night while I was in the Project management course at Sheridan during his schizophrenic episode, but the circumstances were quite different.

Here we are celebrating Andrew's birthday at Captain Boil in Mississauga, ON, on June 14, 2023, shortly after I was fired from the SIRT Centre at Sheridan College.

This is another photo of the bruise I sustained during my arrest and subsequent hospital stay in the 2D ward for mental patients. This was taken in the bathroom, which lacked a locking door, allowing patients to frequently walk in while you were using the facilities.

This is one of the meals I was served in the mental ward. It included two egg bites and potato wedges, along with a vegetable soup medley that looked questionable, so I chose not to eat it, even though I was grateful. I was also served orange pekoe tea with red path sugar and decaffeinated Nescafé coffee with 2% milk creamer.

Here is another bruise I sustained on my hand from the unnecessary force used against me. I'm not a large person, so there was no reason for them to approach me in this manner.

Thank You:

I am deeply grateful for any assistance you can provide. This journey has been incredibly challenging, but with your support, I hope to find justice and begin to rebuild my life while paving the way for safer workplaces for others.

With appreciation,

Sylvia Kmiecik

Updates Section:

I will provide updates on any developments regarding the legal process and my recovery. Your encouragement and support mean the world to me!

Why I’m Asking for Support

I am seeking legal action to address the injustice I have faced, and the costs associated with this fight are significant. I have already gone through the grievance process with no resolve and most lawyers unfortunately do not take union cases. I have chosen to take this to superior court. I have not been able to find employment after this occurrence and I'm struggling to recover given the weight I am already carrying with my disabled family members. I am asking for your help to cover legal fees. Your support will not only aid in my quest for justice but also help fund a nonprofit dedicated to combating workplace bullying and harassment. Together, we can hold individuals like Howard Peart accountable and advocate for women's rights in the workplace.

How You Can Help

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you're unable to donate, please consider sharing my story to raise awareness. The more people know about what happened, the stronger our call for change can be.

Cost Breakdown for GoFundMe Funds

Fund Allocation Breakdown

Total Fund Goal : $50,000

Legal Expenses:

Retainer for Superior Court: $10,000

Estimated Legal Fees (if applicable): $5,000

Debt Repayment:

Credit Card Debt (PC Financial Mastercard): $18,092.15

Current Interest Rate: 26.99% fortunately reduced to 5% on hardship program.

OSAP Loan: $6,776.00

Current Interest Rate: 6.95%

Other Expenses:

Living Expenses: $1,500 (per month)

Emergency Fund: $2,500

Estimated Total: $46868.15

With a remaining cushion amount of $3131.85 in the case there are more charges or expenses.

Example Allocation

Category Amount

Total Funds Available $50,000

Retainer for Superior Court $10,000

Estimated Legal Fees $5,000

Credit Card Debt $18,092.15

OSAP Loan $6,776.00

Living Expenses (3 months) $4,500

Emergency Fund $2,500

Total Approx. (Rounded up) Allocated $49,500

Remaining Funds $500

Notes

Total Funds Available: $50,000 provides a cushion for my financial needs.

Legal Expenses: Allocating $10,000 for the retainer and $5,000 for potential additional legal fees ensures you are prepared for your court case.

Debt Repayment: Prioritize repaying my credit card and OSAP loans, especially since they carry high interest.

Living Expenses: The example assumes three months of living expenses at $1,500 per month, totaling $4,500.

Emergency Fund: Setting aside $2,500 for unexpected costs helps ensure financial stability.

Credit Card Debt Repayment

Total Debt: $18,092.33

Current Interest Rate: 26.99% reduced to 5%

Purpose: This debt has accumulated primarily for survival and basic needs due to my inability to work as a result of harassment and termination. Funds will be used to pay down this debt, reducing monthly interest payments and helping me regain financial stability.