For Immediate Release

YWCA Calgary Celebrates New Chief Executive Officer, Talia Bell

January 28, 2026 – Calgary, AB – YWCA Calgary proudly announces the appointment of Talia Bell as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 31, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s continued growth and community impact. Ms. Bell succeeds Sue Tomney, who announced in 2025 that she is stepping down from the role after 15 of transformative leadership.

“Talia brings strategic depth, operational excellence and a deep commitment to equity and community impact,” said Aalia Ratani, Board Chair of YWCA Calgary. “Her leadership has strengthened our programs, culture and financial sustainability. The Board is confident she will guide YWCA Calgary into its next chapter.”

Since joining YWCA Calgary in 2019, Ms. Bell has held progressively senior roles, most recently as Chief Programs and People Officer. In this capacity, she advanced service innovation, strengthened key partnerships and championed a culture rooted in impact and accountability—experience that positions her strongly to lead the organization into its next chapter.

“Talia’s appointment reflects strong continuity and forward momentum,” Ratani added. “Her ability to lead through complexity while centering people, impact and accountability has been evident throughout her tenure.”

As CEO, Ms. Bell will lead YWCA’s strategic priorities, including service innovation, systems resilience and community partnerships that advance safety, equity and opportunity for women and their families. “I am honoured to step into the role of CEO,” said Talia Bell. “YWCA Calgary has a powerful legacy of impact, and I am excited to work with our employees, Board, Alumni, partners, donors and community to build on that legacy and ensure the organization continues to respond to the emerging needs of women and their families.”

Prior to joining YWCA Calgary, Ms. Bell led the development and launch of The Social Impact Lab, a collaborative hub exploring new models to address philanthropic disruption in Calgary. She has also held leadership roles with United Way of Calgary and Area, Mount Royal University (as a part-time instructor in the Department of Criminal Justice) and the Boys and Girls Club of Calgary. Since 2023, Ms. Bell has served as a Board Member with Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, contributing her governance expertise and passion for the arts in support of the organization’s mission.

In the role of YWCA Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Bell will lead the organization through its next phase of strategic growth with the ongoing activation of its recently released Strategic Plan. Along with ongoing evolution of core programs and services, Ms. Bell will continue to steer the organization’s vision of building a community where women and their families are safe, supported and empowered to thrive.

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About YW Calgary:

YW Calgary focuses on supporting women and their families to thrive, safely and equitably. With the support of our donors, government partners and other social agencies we provide an array of programs and services which focus on preventing incidents of domestic violence and trauma by building knowledge and skills to promote healthy relationships, mental wellness & financial resiliency, all while continuing to offer the critical supports women and their families need. We care about each other, our clients and our community and are driven by the lasting impact we have on women, their families and by extension, their community.

For information and interview inquiries, please contact:

Colleen Cory

Sr. Communications Specialist, YW Calgary 

Phone: 403.797.2487 | Email: ccory@ywcalgary.ca