Oxygen Mask Mindset: Promoting Self-Care and Boundaries for Professionals
Calissa Ngozi is a mental health professional, educator, and Amazon best-selling author with over two decades of expertise. As a Child & Youth Care Professor at Mohawk College, Board Member of Pathstone Mental Health Foundation, and author of The Oxygen Mask Mindset, she brings unmatched credibility to every stage. Recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch and The Peak's 40 Under 40 Emerging Leader for Social Impact.
"Own your truth and embrace your unique journey… you have the power to write your own ending."
Regular Media Contributor
Regular Contributor
Regular Contributor
Regular Contributor
Regular Contributor
Also appeared on: CP24 Breakfast, 100 Huntley, Global News, The Social, The Morning Show
See Calissa in Action
Scroll to see more interviews
Signature Presentations
Available as 45-min or 90-min keynotes, half-day, or full-day workshops
Helping Professionals Protect Their Peace and Avoid Burnout
Professionals often face immense pressure to perform, leading to stress and burnout. Inspired by the pre-flight safety instruction to "put your own oxygen mask on first," this talk provides corporate professionals with the tools and strategies to protect their peace and avoid burnout.
Calissa guides attendees through a comprehensive framework designed to integrate self-care into their busy lives, set healthy boundaries in the workplace, and find joy outside of their professional roles.
Mental Health Strategies for Professional Success
Corporate life can be demanding and mental health often takes a back seat to deadlines and productivity goals. This keynote addresses the critical importance of mental health in achieving long-term professional success, providing practical strategies to manage stress, enhance resilience, and maintain mental well-being amidst career demands.
Calissa's engaging presentation combines evidence-based mental health practices with real-world corporate scenarios. Attendees leave with actionable tools to create a healthier work environment and thrive in their professional roles.
For Those Who Give Everything to Others
In the demanding fields of human services and mental health, professionals are often at risk of burnout and vicarious trauma due to their relentless dedication to helping others. This version of the "Oxygen Mask Mindset" is tailored specifically for those who spend their days caring for others.
Through a comprehensive framework that includes staying connected to your purpose, setting healthy boundaries, and engaging in effective self-care, Calissa offers practical strategies and insights. Attendees will be inspired to find joy outside of work, build supportive networks, and recognize when to seek help or step away.
About Calissa
Calissa Ngozi is a mental health professional, educator, and speaker with over two decades of expertise. She currently serves as a Child & Youth Care Professor at Mohawk College and runs a private practice offering mental health behavior support services to individuals and families.
Calissa sits on the Board of the Pathstone Mental Health Foundation and is the author of the Amazon best-selling book The Oxygen Mask Mindset. Her framework has helped thousands of professionals learn to prioritize their wellbeing without sacrificing their careers or the people they serve.
She's been recognized with six awards since 2024 spanning leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact, including being named one of Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch and The Peak's 40 Under 40 Emerging Leader for Social Impact.
Calissa is a regular contributor on CTV Your Morning, Breakfast Television, CHCH Morning Live, and CTV News, and has appeared on CP24 Breakfast, 100 Huntley, Global News, The Social, and The Morning Show.
Published Books
Reclaiming Your Energy in a World that Glorifies Exhaustion
Calissa's comprehensive framework for burnout prevention and boundary-setting, now available as a practical guide for professionals and teams. Drawing from over two decades of mental health expertise, this Amazon best-seller gives readers the tools to prioritize their wellbeing without sacrificing their careers.
"A must-read for anyone who has ever felt the weight of the world on their shoulders." — Tara Slone, Host of The Amazing Race Canada
What People Are Saying
"Calissa's empathetic and friendly demeanor created a safe space for open discussions. She seamlessly guided the audience through diverse topics, balancing seriousness with moments of levity. Her genuine passion for mental health advocacy was evident, inspiring both speakers and attendees alike."
"Calissa is on fire! Her unique brand coupled with her powerful speaking ability make her an in-demand speaker at any event. She shone on our stage and I can guarantee she will elevate your event."
Ready to bring a transformative mental health message to your audience? Contact our booking team to check availability and discuss customization for your organization.
Explore More