Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) is pleased to welcome Faisal Shafiq as Board Chair, along with five new members to its Board of Directors. The new leadership team was introduced during AHC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 17, 2026, where members gathered to reflect on the organization’s achievements and look ahead to the future. Supporting Shafiq in Board leadership are David Bourne as Treasurer and Irene MacLean as Board Secretary.
Welcoming Our New Board Chair
Faisal Shafiq has spent more than 20 years working at the intersection of public health, technology, and international development, with a career centered on creating meaningful impact for people and communities. From leading multi-million-dollar healthcare and justice system transformation programs with organizations such as Alberta Health Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority, and CGI Inc., to managing large-scale global initiatives with the World Health Organization and AMAL Human Development Network, he has helped improve access to services, strengthen systems, and create opportunities for sustainable growth and development.
Throughout his career, Faisal has built a reputation for successfully delivering complex, high-profile initiatives that require strategic leadership and thoughtful stakeholder engagement. He has led large-scale IT transformations, strengthened organizational capacity in underserved communities, and supported change across diverse stakeholder groups, with a focus on advancing practical, inclusive solutions that create lasting impact.
Today, as Founder and Principal Consultant at Xcelerra Inc., Faisal leverages his experience in management and technology consulting to help organizations navigate complexity, align strategy with execution, and achieve measurable results. His academic background includes an MA in International Health from Monash University Australia, an MSc in Economics, and an MBA from Pakistan, along with advanced expertise in project management, change management, and organizational transformation.
Faisal brings this same commitment to service, collaboration, and community impact to his role as Board Chair at AHC. He is passionate about advancing equity, fostering meaningful partnerships, and helping build a stronger future for the communities AHC serves.
Welcoming Our New Board Members
AHC is pleased to welcome the following new members to its Board of Directors:
Angel Yu is a strategic sales and public sector leader with experience in government relations, community partnerships, and organizational leadership across healthcare, technology, and telecommunications. She has worked with non-profit and public sector organizations, supporting community-focused initiatives and Indigenous reconciliation efforts. With expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and inclusive collaboration, Angel brings valuable experience in community engagement and capacity building to the AHC Board. She holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool and is committed to mentoring emerging professionals and supporting marginalized communities.
Mary Thomas is an award-winning author, communications professional, and community advocate with more than 25 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, storytelling, and non-profit leadership. She is passionate about building partnerships, connecting diverse communities, and advancing initiatives that create positive community impact. Mary brings valuable experience in communications, collaboration, and community engagement to the AHC Board.
Leanne Hedberg brings over 15 years of consulting and senior leadership experience, specializing in organizational strategy, workforce wellbeing, and performance improvement. She holds an MBA in Ethical Leadership and a PhD in Strategic Management, bringing a research-informed approach to governance and strategic decision-making. Through her work, Leanne supports organizations in translating complex insights into clear, actionable direction and is passionate about advancing equitable, community-based initiatives that strengthen capacity and improve outcomes.
Irene MacLean is an independent consultant specializing in business transformation, governance frameworks, and sustainability-aligned strategy. With more than 20 years of experience leading technology, risk, and operational initiatives, she brings a seasoned perspective to complex organizational challenges. Irene has served in regulatory and advisory roles and volunteers her time to several social impact initiatives. She graduated from the University of Alberta and holds a Master’s degree in Project Management from The George Washington University (DC). Irene is committed to community development, continuous learning, and responsible innovation.
Saniya Ghalehdar is a facilitator and Program Administrator dedicated to advancing equity, inclusion, and belonging. She designs and leads learning experiences that strengthen intercultural understanding and support meaningful community engagement. Saniya previously served on the City of Edmonton’s Women’s Advisory and continues to contribute to the NorQuest Living Library Committee. She is passionate about building stronger, more connected communities through dialogue, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members
As we welcome new Board leadership, we extend our sincere appreciation to former Board Chair and Directors Petchphilin (Pauline) Ismael and Colin Christensen, and Board Secretary Rajiv A. Bansal for their dedication and service to Action for Healthy Communities.
Their leadership, expertise, and commitment have helped strengthen AHC’s governance and support our mission of building healthy, inclusive, and welcoming communities across Alberta. We thank Pauline, Colin, and Rajiv for their contributions and wish them continued success in their future endeavours.
We look forward to working with our new Board Chair and Board members as we continue supporting newcomers and strengthening communities across Alberta.