About AWL Partners

Partners in Emotional Intelligence, Equity & Inclusive Leadership.

At AWL Partners, we empower workplaces, women, and allies through emotional intelligence-based coaching, training, and community building. Our work is grounded in the belief that emotionally intelligent leadership isn’t optional—it’s essential for meaningful, lasting change.

We specialize in Emotional Intelligence, leadership development, counselling, coaching and custom programs that drive inclusion, strengthen teams ultimately delivering performance results for your organization.

How it All Started

2019

In 2019, a simple lunch between Melissa Maloney and Jennifer Slay sparked something bigger than either expected.

Then

What began as an idea quickly grew into All Women L.E.A.D.®—a growing community of women and allies ready to lead with intention, equity, and heart.

Now

Today, that movement has evolved into AWL Partners, a full-service leadership consultancy and training organization working with organizations across Canada in sectors including skilled trades, STEM, finance, and education.

Our Mission & Approach

To help people and teams grow smarter with their emotions—so they can work better, lead boldly, and build more inclusive workplaces.

We believe that emotional intelligence is the foundation of meaningful leadership and organizational change. That’s why our work integrates coaching, counselling, DEI strategy, and experiential training to support both personal growth and collective transformation.

Two Brains

What Makes Us Unique and Different

We combine the science of people with the strategy of performance.

One brain understands humans.The other understands business.

Together, we build emotionally intelligent workplaces that actually work.

At AWL Partners, we offer something most training companies can’t: a unique dual-lens approach.

One of our founders is a psychotherapist.The other is a business executive.

That means we understand both what makes people tick and what makes businesses grow.Using the proven Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i 2.0) model, we help your leaders and teams build skills that improve communication, resilience, inclusion, and performance

In short?

We make your people emotionally smarter, so your workplace performs better.

Meet the Founders

Melissa Maloney: Empowering Change Through Leadership

Co-Founder – The Business Brain Behind AWL Partners

Melissa Maloney is a visionary leader with over 25 years of executive leadership in sales and operations. She is dedicated to fostering positive change through empowerment, inclusivity, and engagement. With a profound commitment to leadership, she is the co-founder of AWL Partners where she passionately supports developing emotionally intelligent workplaces that drive results!

In her role as the co-founder of All Women L.E.A.D.®, Melissa champions the cause of empowering women across various sectors. Through this initiative, she strives to break barriers, promote diversity, and create a supportive network that propels women to leadership roles. Her passion for gender equality and inclusive leadership has made All Women L.E.A.D.® a powerful force in the journey towards a more equitable future.

Melissa is not only a leader in the professional realm but also a sought-after speaker, sharing her insights and experiences on leadership, gender equity, and productivity in the workplace. Her engaging and dynamic speaking style captivates audiences, leaving a lasting impact and inspiring individuals to become catalysts for positive change.

With a diverse background encompassing corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, sales, women's leadership advocacy, international development, and wellness, Melissa Maloney embodies the spirit of a modern leader who envisions a world where everyone can thrive. Her dedication to creating a more inclusive and innovative future makes her a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders and changemakers alike.

Jennifer Slay, MSW, RSW

Co-Founder – The Human Brain Behind AWL Partners

Jennifer Slay is an internationally recognized educator, speaker, and facilitator whose dynamic delivery and deep expertise make her a sought-after trainer in areas including trauma-informed care, Emotional Intelligence, leadership development, and anti-racism education. With over two decades of experience as a Registered Social Worker and certified life coach, Jennifer blends evidence-based approaches with lived experience to empower individuals and transform organizations.

She has delivered training across Canada and the U.S.A, captivating audiences with her engaging, interactive, and often humorous approach to learning. Jennifer’s commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and equity-centered education has positioned her as a trusted leader in both public and private sectors.

Jennifer is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her outstanding community service, and she was named one of Canada’s Women of Confidence by Chatelaine magazine. She is also the co-executive producer of the award-winning television series Melanated View and a featured TEDx speaker, known for inspiring audiences with powerful personal storytelling and actionable strategies.

A published author and accomplished musician, Jennifer is also the creator of transformational programs like Slay Your Inner Critic and Time to S.L.A.Y., which help individuals build confidence, resilience, and self-awareness. She holds an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Social Work, a Master’s degree in Social Work, and certifications in Extended DISC, CBT, Neurolinguistics, and EMDR. Jennifer’s belief that “to whom much is given, much is required” fuels her mission to help others live and lead with purpose. At AWL Partners, she brings her signature energy, authenticity, and strategic insight to every workshop, keynote, and coaching session.