2023 Strategic Program Speakers

Paula Calderon is a dedicated nonprofit executive with over 20 years of leadership experience in workforce development, education and socio-economic impact projects. An Immigrant from Colombia, Paula has lived experience that informs her work and fuels her passion in supporting the successful integration of newcomers to Canada. She boasts a distinguished career in nonprofit leadership spanning various sectors. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association (CIWA) since June 2022, she continues to champion her commitment to empowerment and inclusivity. CIWA, a culturally diverse settlement agency, focuses on addressing the unique concerns and needs of immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families. Paula's leadership has further solidified CIWA's reputation as a provincial and national leader in outcome-based, gender-specific settlement services. The organization's holistic approach covers a wide array of support services, including settlement and integration, literacy and language training, employment support, civic engagement, health, housing, and community development. Before her role at CIWA, Paula excelled as National Director of Client Success at Windmill Microlending and Director of Services Peel Region at ACCES Employment, impacting thousands of Internationally Trained Professionals. Her volunteer contributions as President of the Canadian Colombian Professional Association further underscore her dedication. With academic credentials in marketing and coaching as well as organizational management skills, Paula's profound impact lies in her commitment to empowering immigrant women and fostering inclusivity within the community.