CultureLink’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Jemima Sabapathy as CultureLink’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Jemima, an empowering and strategic leader, brings a wealth of leadership experience in organizational management, operations and change management at leading organizations in the not-for-profit sector. Jemima is driven by a passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable and marginalised people within local communities.
“We’re excited that Jemima will lead CultureLink into its next chapter,” said Helen Latimer, Chair of the CultureLink Board of Directors. “Jemima’s years of leadership in the settlement sector, along with her personal perspective and character, will better enable CultureLink to achieve its mission to serve the needs of diverse communities.”
Jemima came to Canada as a skilled professional from Sri Lanka. Her personal journey encouraged her to help others overcome challenges and build a successful life in Canada. In the two decades since, Jemima has held senior leadership roles at WoodGreen Community Services, JobStart, and Skills for Change and served newcomers, youth, seniors, persons with disabilities, and women. Before coming to Canada, Jemima held leadership positions in education and with U.S. Peace Corps and VSO.
Jemima has been instrumental in the sustainability, growth, and expansion of organizations she worked for. She successfully led innovation, strategic planning, diversification of funding resources, labour relations, managing change and risk management.
“As an immigrant woman of colour, it is my honour and privilege to lead CultureLink, an organization with such a rich history helping newcomers successfully settle and succeed in Canada,” said Jemima Sabapathy. “I look forward to continuing my journey and empowering others to make a difference in the lives of people in need.”
Jemima starts as CultureLink’s CEO on November 15, 2021, replacing Interim Executive Director Raj Chakrawarti who will resume his role as CultureLink’s Finance Director.