Melissa Durrell is the CEO and Chief Strategist of Durrell Communications, bringing award-winning broadcast journalism experience and a distinctive storytelling approach to help changemakers amplify their impact through brand storytelling, media training, crisis and executive communications, and public relations.

A former Waterloo City Councillor (2010–2018), Melissa is also a dedicated advocate for women’s leadership in politics and business, and has served on numerous community and civic boards.

Karen’s career began in education, where her passion for helping others grow first took root. Since then, she has led in classrooms, community organizations, and political systems – always with a focus on empowerment and impact.

As Chief Strategy Officer at Habitat for Humanity Canada and Board President at YW Kitchener-Waterloo, Karen is known for building strong organizations, leading change, and turning challenges into opportunities. She’s deeply committed to equity, believing that closing community gaps creates brighter futures.  Beyond her role, Karen champions women’s issues and works to create inclusive, resilient communities – leading with passion and purpose every step of the way.

As a Regional Councillor, community leader, entrepreneur, and speaker, they are passionate about strengthening democracy and building stronger, more connected communities. Their work is grounded in the belief that every voice matters and that meaningful change happens when residents are engaged, informed, and empowered.

As an elected official and community connector, they bring people together across perspectives to solve challenges, advance opportunity, and ensure decision-making reflects the diverse needs of the community. As a speaker and advocate, they share insights on democracy, civic engagement, leadership, and community building, inspiring others to see themselves as active participants in shaping the future.

The Honourable Bardish Chagger is the Member of Parliament for Waterloo and was appointed Minister of Small Business and Tourism on November 4, 2015. A natural leader and organizer, she is deeply committed to inclusion, community building, and strengthening the Waterloo community through local volunteerism and service.

Through her work with the Kitchener–Waterloo Multicultural Centre and as former executive assistant to MP Andrew Telegdi, she gained strong insight into local priorities including manufacturing, technology, and innovation. She has supported numerous community organizations and policy initiatives, and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Waterloo. In 2012, she was named one of the Waterloo Region Record’s “40 Under 40.”

Following a successful 2025 snap election, MP Catherine Fife begins her 13th year of public service as the MPP for Waterloo. She currently serves as Shadow Minister for Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Vice-Chair of the Justice Committee, and the Official Opposition’s Science Champion for Life Sciences Advocacy.

A long-time advocate for Waterloo, Catherine has championed investments in public education, health care, and mental health supports. She has advanced key legislation including Rowan’s Law, missing persons legislation, and initiatives to protect seniors in long-term care and strengthen justice for sexual assault survivors.