Canadian Women & Sport is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: Catherine Meade, Andy Shibata, and Kyam Schnitzer. These leaders bring a wealth of experience and passion in advancing gender equity for the Canadian sport system. Additionally, the organization is excited to announce the election of long-standing board member Camille Wallace as the new Chair of the Board, and Rahim Mohamed as the new Vice-Chair.
Catherine Meade joins the board with a strong background in law as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She is Vice President of Community, Sustainability & Responsibility at the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation (OLG), where she leads award-winning responsible gambling, community engagement, and sustainability initiatives. Previously, she was Director of Pan Am Games Capital Projects & Legacy for the City of Toronto. She also practiced law and was a DEI professional. A lifelong athlete and community advocate, Catherine has volunteered at numerous events including the 1993 World University Games, 1996 Olympic Games, 2006 Outgames, 2014 Gay Games, and 2015 Pan Am Games. Her dynamic background will support Canadian Women & Sport in fostering equitable and inclusive environments for women and girls.
Andy Shibata is a distinguished senior marketing executive, currently serving as Vice President of Brand at Air Canada. Since joining in 2016, Andy has led the comprehensive rebranding of Air Canada, and the relaunch of Aeroplan. He has also driven the airlines’ support for professional women’s sports in Canada, including sponsorships of the PWHL and the WNBA Canada Series. His career has also included a pivotal role at RBC, where he launched the RBC Training Ground program to support aspiring Olympic athletes. A triathlete who has competed in the Ironman World Championships, Andy understands the power of sport and is committed to promoting inclusivity and advancing gender equity through impactful brand initiatives.
Kyam Schnitzer is a leader within Deloitte Canada’s Strategy, Risk, and Transactions practice, with experience in crisis response, intelligence operations, financial crime investigations and notably sports strategy, governance, and risk management. He has advised a range of North American professional leagues, women’s sports organizations, and Olympic entities including Water Polo Canada, and Rugby Canada on integrity, governance, and risk, helping these organizations navigate complex strategic challenges. Kyam is a lawyer by training and started his career in the Canadian intelligence community, His focus on systemic change aligns seamlessly with Canadian Women & Sport’ vision of creating equitable and inclusive sport spaces, and opportunities nationwide.
As Canadian Women & Sport welcomes new members, it also celebrates the election of Camille Wallace as Board Chair. Camille, a long-standing board member, has shown visionary leadership and dedication to the organization’s mission. She has played an integral role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, fostering impactful partnerships, and driving initiatives that have expanded its reach and influence across Canada. With her stepping into the Chair role, she will continue to drive positive change in the Canadian sport system. Additionally, Rahim Mohamed has been elected as Vice-Chair, further strengthening the board’s commitment to empowering women and girls in sport through inclusive and strategic leadership.
“We are thrilled to welcome Catherine, Andy, and Kyam to our Board of Directors and to have Camille and Rahim step into these leadership roles,” says Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Women & Sport. “Their collective expertise and shared dedication to equity will enhance our efforts to create meaningful change and support the next generation of women leaders in sport.” Canadian Women & Sport would like to extend heartfelt gratitude and thank departing Chair, Deidra Dionne and Directors-at-Large, Althea Arsenault Beal and Bill Cooper for their instrumental contributions during their tenures. Their dedication and commitment have profoundly impacted the organization, leaving a strong foundation for future growth and success. The organization wishes them all the best in their future endeavors
Canadian Women & Sport remains steadfast in its mission to advance gender equity in sport at all levels. Through innovative programs, impactful partnerships, research and comprehensive resources, the organization empowers women and girls to realize their full potential and fosters sport environments where everyone can thrive.
Media contact:
Sarah Ahmed
Director, Marketing and Communications
sarah.ahmed@womenandsport.ca