Doris Paquette, BA, PMP, MBA Candidate, is the Director of Strategic Implementation with the Ministry of Education and Childcare. With deep expertise in capital and strategic planning, Doris is committed to advancing women’s leadership and empowering women across generations. She serves as President of the Board of Directors for Change for Children Association, Chair of the Edmonton Chapter of Women in Leadership, and is an active member of CREW Edmonton. Her leadership has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including Edify Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 (2022), the Healthy Community Award for Most Significant Change (2022), and Women of Influence (2023) by The Planner’s Magazine. Prior to joining the Government of Alberta, Doris spent over a decade in the education sector, where she led a range of innovative projects—most notably the creation of safe, accessible, and inclusive play spaces for children, a personal passion of hers.

Courtney grew up in the small town of Athabasca with the competitive spirit of a multi-sport athlete and the heart of a community builder. After earning her Bachelor of Physical Education in Sport Performance from the University of Alberta, she spent 16 years as an Exercise Specialist before stepping into leadership where she’s spent the past decade helping others find their strength and passion in more ways than one. As Director of a mental health clinic specializing in supporting first responders with traumatic psychological injuries and clients accessing medically assisted therapy, Courtney leads with authenticity, empathy and an unshakable belief that compassion is strength. She’s the kind of fierce leader who immensely admires and quotes Jacinda Ardern “One of the criticisms I've faced over the years is that I'm not aggressive enough or assertive enough, or maybe somehow, because I'm empathetic, it means I'm weak. I totally rebel against that. I refuse to believe that you cannot be both compassionate and strong”, champions collaboration over competition and cheers loudest for the success of others; especially women finding their voice and place in leadership. A proud wife and mom to two fiercely independent teenage daughters, Courtney brings equal parts energy, heart and humour to everything she does because in her world, people always come first (and a good laugh is mandatory).

Marta Prystasz, M.Ed., B.Ed., is a proud mother of three boys—each growing into compassionate leaders in their own way—a devoted wife, and a passionate educator and leader. She serves as an Assistant Principal with over 20 years of experience in public education, recognized for her dedication to empowering learning, fostering growth, and supporting mental health and well-being. Marta has held numerous impactful roles, including Classroom Teacher, English Language Learning Designate, Learning Coach, International Baccalaureate Coordinator, Lead Teacher for Language Programs, and Pre-Service Mentor Teacher. These experiences have shaped her ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and a strong foundation in inclusive, research-informed practices. Beyond her school leadership, Marta is committed to advancing women’s engagement and leadership. As Co-Chair of the Edmonton Catholic Teachers Local 54 Women in Leadership Committee, she works to strengthen collaboration, elevate women’s voices, and promote equitable opportunities for growth. Driven by visionary thinking and collaborative problem-solving, Marta is passionate about creating environments where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. Her work is grounded in strong communication, community building, and the belief that purposeful leadership and impactful learning inspire lasting change. Marta believes effective leadership is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and lifelong learning. She strives to cultivate spaces where educators and students alike can lead with purpose, confidence, and a shared commitment to growth.

Jennifer Baeta is a mom of two incredible girls, each a leader in her own unique way, a devoted wife, and a passionate leader. She is an Assistant Principal with over 15 years of experience in education, and her leadership is defined by her ability to inspire educators, champion teacher well-being, and lead with integrity and heart. She has held a variety of impactful roles, including Acting Principal, Acting Learning Coach, Lead Teacher on school opening teams, Pre-Service Teacher Mentor, and Division Lead for K–3 education. Beyond the classroom, Jennifer is deeply committed to empowering women in education. She contributes to the ATA Women in Leadership Provincial Committee and co-chairs the Local 54 Women in Leadership Committee. Jennifer also serves as a Director on the Governing Board of ABC Head Start, Chair of the ABC Head Start Human Resources Committee, and as a long-standing member of the Edmonton Regional Early Childhood Education Council. At her core, she believes that leadership is grounded in compassion and is passionate about using research as a catalyst for meaningful change in educational leadership and teacher well-being.

Ajoke is a skilled professional with multidisciplinary experience in project management, facilities management, and business intelligence. Her experience spans across the education, construction, and property management sectors. ​Skilled at systems optimization and team leadership, she has played key roles in major institutional projects. Based in Edmonton, Ajoke advocates for mentorship, inclusion, and empowering women in underrepresented industries.

Salma Abdi is a dedicated healthcare leader and entrepreneur with a strong passion for improving systems that enhance patient care and empower women in leadership. As the Practice Facilitator Lead at the Edmonton West Primary Care Network, Salma drives quality improvement initiatives focused on data accuracy, physician development, and patient engagement.

Stacy Hill is a people-centered healthcare leader and Registered Dietitian who believes that meaningful change begins with empowered teams and compassionate leadership. As Manager of Clinical Services in Primary Care, Stacy leads with curiosity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to helping people bring their best selves to work. With a background in nutrition, leadership, and organizational change, Stacy blends science, strategy, and heart to drive culture, connection, and innovation in healthcare. She’s passionate about mentorship, continuous learning, and creating psychologically safe spaces where others—especially women—can grow into confident, purpose-driven leaders. When she’s not leading her team or studying toward her MBA, you can find Stacy brainstorming creative projects, sipping strong coffee, or finding calm on a long walk with her dogs.

Leticia Arruda recently moved to Edmonton from her home country, Brazil. She is passionate about advancing gender equity and drawing on her extensive professional background in women's health. As a Registered Midwife in Brazil, Leticia graduated from the School of Arts, Sciences and Humanities (EACH) at the University of São Paulo (USP), where she is currently a postgraduate student at the Faculty of Medicine. Additionally, she is a certified breastfeeding consultant and laser therapist. Her background includes over ten years of professional experience as a Doula. She continues to work remotely with Coletivo Maín in Brazil, focusing on prenatal consultations, breastfeeding support, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. In addition to her clinical practice, she serves as a Postpartum Doula Trainer for Coletivo Maín, and also coordinates and creates content for the association (@coletivomain). Since 2008, she has been facilitating "Sexual and Reproductive Rights Circles." Leticia has pursued extensive continuing education in gender and health, including courses such as Management in Breastfeeding, Integrated Postpartum Care, Psychoanalysis, Perinatal and Parental Care, Challenges of the Feminine, and Evidence-Based Midwifery. She also curates technical parenting content for the Brazilian company Mãe-Estar. She is also a mother of two teenage girls.

Deborah is an accomplished Project Manager and Business Analyst with extensive experience leading IT projects across government and private sectors. She is known for her strategic mindset, collaborative approach, and focus on business process improvement, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and with measurable impact. As the founder of the OphirGold Foundation—an organization that empowers women, particularly new immigrants, through mentorship, career development, and community support—Deborah is passionate about helping women reach their full potential. She also enjoys working with children and has served for several years as an active children’s ministry volunteer, inspiring confidence, kindness, and faith in young minds.

Ashlee Doyle, MScOT, BPE leads the University Health Centre at the University of Alberta as Manager, overseeing comprehensive medical services and strategic initiatives to advance campus health and wellness. She is an experienced Occupational Therapist with over 14 years of progressive clinical and management experience at Alberta Health Services. A passionate advocate for innovation and quality improvement in healthcare, Ashlee focuses on advancing practice, enhancing patient experience, and improving outcomes. She believes that leadership is about mobilizing others in their strengths and creating supportive environments where people can truly flourish. As a wife and mom to two active boys, Ashlee understands the importance of balance, connection, and community. She is particularly committed to supporting and empowering women in leadership—fostering collaboration, breaking down barriers, challenging assumptions, and building networks that enable women to lead with confidence and impact. I look forward to connecting, learning and growing with WIL!

Rachelle holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in Business Management and minors in Marketing and International Business from Grant MacEwan University. She also completed one year of Management Studies at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica, adding a global perspective to her academic foundation. With over 7 years of experience as a Customer Service Manager at a private airport and 4 years as an Executive Assistant across various organizations, Rachelle brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, operations, and client relations. Her professional journey reflects a strong commitment to excellence and adaptability in dynamic environments. Beyond her corporate achievements, Rachelle has a vibrant creative side. She has competed in hip hop dance in the USA and Mexico and performed professionally in Canada. Today, she continues to dance competitively for fun in adult hip hop classes—an outlet that keeps her energized and inspired. Rachelle is also a proud mother, crediting her daughter for fueling her drive and enthusiasm both personally and professionally.

Melanie McQueen is a Master Electrician and HVAC Controls Estimator whose career reflects both technical excellence and a deep commitment to advancing women of all ages in skilled professions. With extensive experience in the construction and mechanical trades, Melanie brings a unique blend of industry knowledge, leadership, and community-minded service to the Women in Leadership Foundation’s Edmonton Chapter, where she supports the team as Event and Program Lead. Passionate about creating equitable opportunities, Melanie actively champions women’s career growth and empowerment. She also serves on the Women in Canadian Trade Contracting Committee through the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada, contributing to national conversations on women’s representation, advancement, and mentorship in the trades. A dedicated volunteer and advocate, Melanie consistently seeks ways to uplift those around her. She believes strongly in fair access to opportunity and is committed to fostering environments where women can thrive—professionally, personally, and collectively.