Appointee Biographies

JEREMY PARKIN

Jeremy Parkin, of Rama, is Director of Emergency Services at Chippewas of Rama First Nation . Jeremy’s community involvement includes serving as Chair of the Pre-Service Firefighting Program Advisory Committee for Georgian College.

SHANYN GODWARD

Shanyn is the Public Education Officer with Richmond Hill Fire & Emergency Services and a passionate advocate for fire and life safety education. She is actively involved with the Ontario Association of Fire Educators and its predecessor, the OFLSE, and has held leadership roles with the Fire & Life Safety Educators of York Region. She serves as a Director with NFPA’s Fire & Life Safety Member Section and contributes to the NFPA Educational Messaging Advisory Committee. Shanyn is also an Adjunct Instructor with the Ontario Fire College, teaching Fire & Life Safety Educator and Public Information Officer courses. Her commitment to risk reduction, creative problem-solving, and belief in the power of prevention continue to drive her work across Ontario.

JAMES REED

James Reed retired from Toronto Fire Services in June 2025 after 32 years of service, culminating in his role as District Chief. In addition to his service with the City of Toronto, James played an active role in the Toronto Professional Firefighters’ Association for more than 20 years, holding several leadership positions, including Secretary-Treasurer and President. He continues to serve as a board member of the Toronto Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from York University and a Certificate in Labour Relations from Ryerson University. Beyond his professional career, James is a dedicated community volunteer. He continues to contribute as an Assistant Coach with the Etobicoke Dolphins Girls Hockey Association. He is also the proud father of two adult children.

PAUL SEIDMAN

Paul Seidman is a Canadian entrepreneur with over 45 years’ experience in the security field, specializing in residential and commercial electronic and physical locksmith security solutions. He has been very active in his community, serving on multiple boards including the Canadian Security Association (1981-1982), Vice President on the board of Camp Arrowhead (2012-2017), President of Metropolitan Condo Corp 906 (2004-present), and acting as a regular security consultant for Global News and other media outlets when called upon to speak on security. Paul has been a key volunteer at the Bathurst & Sheppard community rally for Israel for over two years, ensuring a safe environment while working side by side with the TPS Liaison Team and maintaining an excellent rapport. He has been recognized for his contributions to the community with the King Charles III Coronation Pin presented by MPP Michael Kerzner and, on March 2, 2025, received the Outstanding Volunteerism Award from the City of Toronto by James Pasternak.