Layne, a charity auctioneer from Toronto, shared their journey of raising nearly $55 million for charity over 15 years, and discussed their transition from a financial advisor to an auctioneer after a transformative experience at a charity gala. Layne highlights the challenges of being a non-binary person in a male-dominated field and the importance of asking for help and the power that lies in community, empathy, and using one's privilege to support marginalized groups.

Guest Bio:
Layne is a non-binary, successful entrepreneur with a charming, animated personality, and armed with a collection of captivating anecdotes.

An advocate for social impact, Layne’s work as The Auctionista has raised over $40 million for charity across North America and they have taken the stage over 1,500 times. They champion the idea that no challenge is insurmountable, and no dream is unattainable.

Layne would know best. Before blazing a trail in a male-dominated industry and creating a wildly successful company, Layne changed career paths from a Financial Advisor to Director of Development at a charity, only to courageously pivot again. Through their determination and perseverance, they decided to take the leap and reinvent the role of auctioneer.

With live fundraising firmly under their belt, Layne stepped into the world of keynote speaking to deliver powerful messages about the importance of living authentically. In 2024, Layne launched The IMPACT Workshop; a DEIB-learning series targeted to organizations that is focused on helping participants understand the concepts of gender identity, and how to create a workplace and community that is inclusive and accepting of all, honoring intersections of identity including race, body size, abilities, age, etc.

Now, the ever-innovative Layne, is one of the most coveted and respected auctioneers, speakers, and workshop facilitators, with a sparkling reputation for personal storytelling that connects.

Contact/Socials:
Instagram: @theauctionista
Email: info@auctionista.ca

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