Sharilyn provides expert advice to generous families to channel their wealth and influence to create a better world. She works with changemakers across North America and the Caribbean, guiding them to give well, engage their families, and envision a meaningful legacy aligned with their values.

Whether families are new to philanthropy or have a long philanthropic tradition, Sharilyn expertly blends corporate and family governance principles in her work with family foundations and boards, helping them define and build systems to support their vision for impact. Drawing on deep community knowledge and the application of research and leading practices, Sharilyn’s bespoke advisory services result in clients experiencing greater clarity, confidence and purpose in their philanthropy.

A respected educator and author, Sharilyn’s doctoral research on governance and multi-generational family philanthropy produced a groundbreaking model that helps families approach their giving more cohesively. She teaches governance and leadership in the Masters of Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership program at Carleton University, where she also serves on the Advisory Council. Her published work includes a key report on impact investing and donor-advised funds, a pioneering study on affluent philanthropy in the Caribbean, where she grew up and continues to work, and contributions to leading academic texts on the charitable sector and global philanthropy.

Sharilyn’s career has spanned the charitable and philanthropic communities, and she is an engaged volunteer and board director. In recognition of her significant contributions, Sharilyn was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025. She also received a Family Wealth Report Award for her work advancing philanthropy in the Caribbean. 

Sharilyn lives in Toronto (Canada) and Barbados, and is happiest when her toes are in the sand.