#WILD - Women In Leadership Dinner

Her commitment to public service is unwavering, inspiring all who work with her. 

Hon. Leela Sharon Aheer was first elected as a Member of Alberta's Legislative Assembly for the Chestermere-Rocky View constituency on May 5, 2015. She was re-elected on April 16, 2019, as the MLA for the newly formed riding of Chestermere-Strathmore.

Born in Edmonton and raised in Chestermere, where she raised her family, Aheer is a proud

wife and mother of two amazing young men. She is also a professional singer, vocal coach, and music teacher, instructing singing in seven languages. Her passion for music led her to own and operate a successful music studio for twenty-four years in Chestermere and Calgary, where she was heavily involved in arts, volunteerism, and community service.

As Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women (2019 - 2021), Hon. Aheer made significant strides in promoting multiculturalism and women's status. Her proclamation of Women's Entrepreneurship Day in February 2019 was a historic moment for Canada. She was the first Minister of Multiculturalism in the last twenty-five years and the first Deputy Leader of the United Conservative Party. A key priority of the new government was to provide more

protections for women through initiatives like Clare's Law.

Hon. Aheer has worked tirelessly to affirm her position as an ally within the Alberta Legislature

for those seeking shelter from gender-based violence, racism, and female genital mutilation. In May of 2022, her work on this matter came to fruition when The Health Professions (Protecting Women and Girls) Amendment Act, 2022, a Bill she championed in the Legislature, earned Royal Assent. This significant achievement is a testament to her commitment to social justice.

Hon. Aheer is renowned in her community and among her peers for her strategic insights and

ability to build meaningful partnerships.

Hon Aheer was appointed Senior Director of Strategy and Partnerships with BioAro Inc., a

precision health and longevity medicine leader, in July 2024. She was also appointed the

BioSport Chief Growth Officer.

Brenda Beckedorf is an accomplished ecosystem builder, visionary leader, and strategic thinker with a wealth of experience in fostering and advancing a diverse spectrum of technology enterprises.

Brenda, a co-founder of Society 5.0, is a passionate advocate for unlocking the full power of technology and innovation. With a deep commitment to driving positive impact and sustainable growth, she spearheads the mission of the organization. Society 5.0, under Brenda's leadership, envisions celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in technology while proactively addressing the challenges faced by tech and innovation companies.

Currently serving as a Director of The Calgary Innovation Coalition (CIC), Brenda plays an instrumental role within this consortium of organizations in the Calgary region dedicated to championing innovation-driven entrepreneurs, startups, and enterprises. She also holds the position of Vice Chair at AWE (Alberta Women Entrepreneur), where she actively supports women in business through her involvement in business advising, business skills development, financing initiatives, and networking opportunities. And finally, Brenda is a Founding Member of the Digital Inclusion Collaborative Table, a United Way Initiative, committed to bridging the digital divide within our community. Our digital equity and inclusion efforts aim to amplify the positive impact on our community, fostering improved mental health, socio-economic progress, addressing social isolation, and nurturing healthy relationships.

Previously, Brenda served as the Executive Director of Alberta IoT, a non-profit member-based association established in 2017 to catalyze the growth of the digital realm by cultivating connections, fostering collaboration, and nurturing innovation. In her capacity as Executive Director, Brenda championed the unity of our community to amplify a collective voice in advancing knowledge, adoption, and growth within the technology industry, both in Alberta and on a global scale.

Brenda's journey in the technology sector commenced with her role as Director of Business Development at Graycon Group, where she made significant contributions to the company's success.

Recognized for her outstanding achievements, Brenda was honored with the Universal Women Network Mentorship Award in 2020. Her commitment to empowering women extends to her previous role as Vice President of Calgary Women in Energy, and until recently, as Regional Director for AIoT Canada.

Brenda Beckedorf's dedication and expertise have left an indelible mark on the technology and innovation landscape, making her a true catalyst for progress in her field.

Awarded RBC’s Women’s Entrepreneur for 2020, Ernst & Young 2019 Entrepreneur of the year for the Prairies in Communication Technology, she is a bold innovator, futurist, and purpose driven leader. Her portfolio includes business strategy, social enterprise, and culture building. Desirée was inducted into the WXN Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women Hall of fame in 2022 after being recognized for the 4th time. She is an active member of several organizations including YPO and International Women’s Forum and has chaired several industry boards and focus groups. She sits on the Board of the UN Global Compact Network Canada and Chair’s the Programming Committee. She is the Chair of the YPO Sustainable Business Network, a cohort for Singularity University and a Harvard University Alumni for the Advanced Leadership Initiative.  Desirée is involved in mentorship programs in her community and through Women’s Executive Network. Desirée is a CIAC Certified Strategic Leader and earned both an Executive MBA through Queen’s Smith School of Business and her Certificate of Social Impact from Queens University. She is the recipient of the 30% Club Scholarship for Queens. She was presented with the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023 and the Real Leaders Award in 2024.

Desirée is Co-Founder & Co-CEO of the newly launched aspiHer Women’s Business Club. She is also Owner & President of Zest Sustainable Kitchenware, and Dezco Management Ltd. She is an Owner in SureCall BPO and under her leadership as CEO of SureCall, Desirée pivoted her company for social good. Through the "GoodCall" program SureCall was established as a "purpose driven" organization. SureCall became a Certified B Corp in April of 2019 and was named a ‘Best For the World’ Honouree in 2019, 2021, & 2022 rounding out Desirée's vision of utilizing business as a Force for Good. SureCall was awarded Canada’s Most Admired Cultures by Waterstone Capital for 2021-2024 consecutively, and several awards for service excellence through industry associations. 

The United Nations Economic and Social Council recognized Desirée as a transformational leader naming her “Champion of Sustainable Development” and honouring her with the ‘Enabler of Vision’ award at the 2017 UN Summit in New York for her work to educate women and girls in underserved communities.  The UN Global Compact awarded her one of Canada’s SDG Pioneers for 2022. Desirée was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023 for her community service to Albertans and Canadians. 

Stephanie Forbes is a nationally recognized value chain expert with nearly 25 years of experience leading complex, capital-intensive projects across North America. As the Founder and CEO of The Forbes Group, Stephanie specializes in advancing operational excellence through strategic supply chain leadership, governance, sustainability, and performance optimization.

Her project portfolio spans over $20 billion in major infrastructure and energy investments. 

Known for designing best-in-class frameworks, Stephanie brings a sharp focus to:

• Governance and compliance models
• Vendor lifecycle and assurance programs
• Supply chain risk mitigation
• Continuous improvement initiatives

A proud champion for women in leadership—especially in male-dominated sectors like energy, infrastructure, mining and manufacturing—Stephanie is committed to mentorship, systemic progress, and elevating the next generation of female leaders.

Dr. Linda is a highly accomplished Registered Social Worker with a wealth of academic and professional experience. She holds a Master’s and PhD in Social Work from the University of Calgary. Dr. Linda has dedicated 34 years to the social work profession across not-for-profit, human services, and healthcare sectors.

Her career began in 1992 in Suriname, South America, where she earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree. After immigrating to the United States in 1993 and Canada in 1997, Linda has established herself as a visionary leader and advocate for social justice and anti-racism.

Linda also plays an instrumental role as a co-founder and vice president of the YEEPI Education Foundation of Calgary Inc., an organization dedicated to improving access to healthcare, education, and general support for low-income individuals in Canada and Suriname. Her work through the foundation reflects her desire to bridge gaps and provide crucial resources to underserved populations.

In March 2024, when the City of Calgary hosted its inaugural Anti-Racism Program: Racial Justice Conference with just under 1,000 attendees, Dr. Linda shared the stage with similarly remarkable individuals including Prof. Kimberle Crenshaw. This milestone event was convened under Dr. Linda's leadership.

Her extensive career includes roles at organizations such as Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, Children’s Services Native Services, Alberta Health Services (AHS), and The City of Calgary. Her diverse background and leadership in social work and community service make Dr. Linda a powerful advocate for those in need, both locally and internationally.

Some of Dr. Linda's key achievements include:

- Co-founded Boston Bendt, an organization supporting Maroon University students in Suriname.

- Advocated for and spearheaded the rollout of the NameDrop App, empowering staff to use their preferred names at work.

- Established the first Child and Women’s Health Diversity Program at Alberta Health Services.

- Created and led the first City of Calgary Anti-Racism Program, employing over 18 diverse staff members.

- Developed The City of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Strategic Plan: Dismantling Systemic Racism, Transforming Lives.

- Amplified Indigenous perspectives by collaborating with a diverse Indigenous Elders Circle for community engagements.

- Published a Cultural Competency Toolkit, research reports, and resources available at the Alberta Children’s Hospital Resource Center.

Angelah Kusero is a visionary leader in workforce development, dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome barriers, challenge stereotypes, and embrace leadership opportunities. A Kenya-born Canadian, Angelah draws from her rich cultural heritage and deep connection to her adopted home to fuel her passion for meaningful change and transformative impact.

As a leader at Manpower, Angelah designs and implements innovative career development strategies, creating pathways for underrepresented groups, including women, immigrants, and aspiring leaders. Her advocacy for closing the gender gap and championing diversity reflects her unwavering commitment to reshaping workplaces and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

With a background in Law,  and a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology specializing in Human Relations, Angelah brings a unique and impactful perspective to workforce development and diversity initiatives. Her influence extends beyond her role, as she serves as a dynamic speaker and mentor, sharing her expertise at events like the SAIT Global Workforce Series, Alberta Micro-credentials Symposium, Thrive Conferences, and TFFC Champions Talk, among others.

Angelah’s community involvement is extensive. She serves as a professional Career Mentor , Community Champion, Advisory Group Member, and Mentor with organization such as CRIEC and Women in Need Society. Globally, she has contributed to organizations like TESNA, UNICEF, World University Service Canada, and Children International Summer Villages.

Her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion has earned her prestigious accolades, including the Black Calgarian Making History Award (2024) and the Inclusive Leadership Award (2023), recognizing her impactful community contributions and commitment to fostering inclusivity and driving meaningful change.

Angelah’s journey is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of inclusive leadership. Living in Calgary with her partner and two sons, she draws inspiration from their shared vision of a brighter, more inclusive future. Angelah embodies the transformative power of passion and purpose, continually breaking barriers and inspiring others to thrive in a world of boundless opportunities.

Originating from the Métis homeland and Treaty 1 territory, Shannon is a Cree Métis woman who resides in Treaty 7 territory. 

Shannon is a bold leader who is committed to building an inclusive, sustainable economy. A tireless advocate and champion, Shannon has devoted her career and volunteer work to celebrating, promoting and bettering the lives of women entrepreneurs making her one of Canada's most trusted voices on women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment for educators, government, industry and media.

Shannon is the CEO of Pestun Consulting and the Co-founder of the Finance Cafe. She is also the Senior Advisor to the Diversity Institute where she supports the development of research and strategies that advance gender equity and diversity in entrepreneurship and leadership. 

Prior to embarking on her own entrepreneurial journey, Shannon worked in banking where she became one of the first women in the country to lead a women's banking strategy. Her leadership was instrumental in setting the stage for financial inclusion in Canada's financial sector for both policy makers and financial services providers. In 2019, she was appointed to serve on Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy expert panel.

Shannon's passion for empowering others is hearfully felt. Her compassionate and warm expertise speaks across differences to show how together we can break down barriers, unlock opportunities and create a more inclusive, sustainable economy.

In 2020, she created the Gifting Circle Bursary for Indigenous women entrepreneurs raising over $150,000 in support of advancing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship in Canada.

Janine Rogan, CPA, is a sought-after keynote and TEDx speaker renowned for her engaging presentations on financial feminism and wealth-building for women. As the award-winning Founder and CEO of The Wealth Building Academy Inc., she is also the visionary behind the annual Wealthy(HER) conference in Calgary, which attracts hundreds of women from across Canada. 

Dedicated to providing women with the knowledge and confidence to achieve financial equality, Janine's expertise has been recognized internationally through numerous publications and keynote addresses delivered to thousands globally. Her commitment extends to serving on the FESA board, as well as the planning committee for the AICPA Global Women’s Leadership Summit. 

Janine is also a published author, with her debut book, "The Pink Tax," becoming an instant #1 Amazon bestseller in Feminist Theory. A proud University of Alberta alumna based in Calgary, Janine is currently pursuing a Master’s in Economic Sustainability, further enriching her impactful work.

Amtul Siddiqui has been a strong advocate for diversity, social connections and key partnerships in the not-for-profit world and in communities she has lived in for the past 25 years.

She has championed causes close to her heart through positions as the Senior Development Officer for the Calgary Health Foundation, Senior Manager of Advancement at Vivo and Associate Director of Corporate Giving with the Canadian Red Cross, where she was the national fundraising lead for the 2016 Alberta fires and the 2013 Alberta Floods.

She is currently Executive Director of the Bethany Care Foundation, where she helps create communities of care and supports the transformation of Albertans aging well.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting at the University of Idaho, Amtul interned at the Department of Treasury in Washington, D.C. before moving to Canada to work, raise a family, and advocate for underserved individuals in the community.

Raised by immigrant parents who instilled the value of active community involvement, Amtul learned early on that volunteering is a powerful avenue for effecting positive change. Amtul's extensive volunteer experience encompasses diverse roles, including contributions to the CIBC Run for the Cure, RCMP multicultural committee, Panorama Heights school, Vivo Board of Directors, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Presently, she serves as the Chair of the Calgary Police Commission, President of the Canadian Association of Police Governance.  Recently, Amtul was selected to sit on the Governor General of Canada’s Order of Merit committee. 

In March 2025, Amtul was awarded King Charles iii Coronation Medal.  The medal is presented to individuals who have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region of, or community in, Canada, or attained an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.