The Board

Executive Director

Sherrie

The idea for SHADE rose from my experiences in reuniting and helping to settle refugee families and observing the strain of acculturation many encounter.  As well, my own experience living with intimate partner violence and journey to healing informed the creation of SHADE.  My faith and depth of empathy for individuals in crisis and for those who have experienced trauma has shaped my social responsibility and desire to impact my local community for good.

Chair

Victoria

Domestic violence is an all-too-common trend in our society, both for Newcomers and longtime residents. I am honoured to assist SHADE in its pursuit to support and protect victims and their families. I have previously assisted in empowerment and education programs designed specifically for women in areas such as personal finance and eating disorders. Together, we can help end abuse against women and their children.

Treasurer

Ashley

For me, being part of an organization such as SHADE is important as SHADE gives people a sense of both safety and hope. Safety is a primary need. When this need for safety is met, we can apply our energy to the pursuit of productive endeavours, hoping to grow, learn and thrive. Providing safe housing is a key step in allowing women and their children, who are victims of abuse, to attain that critical sense of safety. As a Chartered Professional Accountant, it is also a particular honour to be involved with SHADE, as doing so allows me to give back to the community by utilizing my accounting and finance expertise.

Secretary

Nikhat

I have spent the last several years working with vulnerable communities such as newcomers, financially disadvantaged, victims of intimate partner violence and persons with disabilities facing socio-economic and mental health challenges. Through my work, I have come to realize that I am passionate about social justice and creating a world where everyone receives equal economic, political, social, and cultural rights and opportunities. I want to use my work experience, passion for social justice and lived experience as an immigrant woman to support women experiencing intimate partner violence. For actualization of real progress, access to resources, equity, and human rights are imperative. 

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Daniel

Independent policy advisor for international and local non-governmental organizations, United Nations agencies, and bilateral agencies. Core areas of experience in results-based management with a detailed understanding of research, evidence, data, and policy application, with an emphasis on social protection. Experience working with vulnerable communities and marginalized individuals in Bangladesh, Canada, Indonesia, Kenya, Pakistan, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United States.

Digital Media Manager

Tori

Every woman deserves to be in a healthy relationship free from violence and abuse. For me, being apart of SHADE is a way to use my voice and skill set to help the vulnerable women in my city. I've always been passionate about empowering women and helping those in need. I am honored and excited to see SHADE grow as an organization and continue to empower immigrant women and their children who have been impacted by domestic violence.

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Debra

For me, being a part of SHADE is a way to honour the memory of my mother, who devoted her life to seeking to end intimate partner violence and creating safe spaces for women. It also allows me to use my experiences as a lawyer to promote social equality and security for those who are vulnerable. There is much more to be done, and I am honoured to contribute to that through SHADE.

Housing Advisor

Lauren

As a city planner and researcher, I am drawn toward projects and initiatives, such as SHADE that works to provide safe housing to those without a safe place to call home. I believe in equality for all and that every woman and child deserve the opportunity to achieve their wildest dreams, free from fear, harm, and discrimination. SHADE will work with immigrant women and children to move toward a future of safety, security, and opportunity - and I am so excited to be a part of this.

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Shirley

I believe in empowering and supporting women rediscover their inner strength. My interest in SHADE stems from my experiences as an immigrant woman and a social worker. I have witnessed the impact of abuse on women and their children. I am also aware of the complex factors that hinder people from leaving abusive relationships. I am excited to be a part of SHADE because I believe this organization will provide a place of “shade” for vulnerable people.  

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Shivani

For me, being a part of SHADE is a way to encourage women to fight against domestic violence and sexual assault.  I believe that “Women are a source of power” and in all religions, women have a supreme place.  As a settlement worker, I want to help women so that they can feel safe, and be free from fear, harm and any form of discrimination. For me, SHADE is a light and a hand for all women. I am very excited and feel honoured being a part of SHADE.