Our Board

Gurminder Singh

Bridges to Belonging Logo

President/Chair

more

Jon Hureau

Headshot of Jon Hureau

Vice President

more

My name is Jon Hureau. I am very pleased to be a board member of Bridges to Belonging. Originally from Burlington, Ontario, I have made my home in Waterloo Region and thoroughly enjoy engaging in the local community through my volunteer, professional, and personal pursuits. The opportunity to contribute to an organization focused on affirming the dignity and worth of people living with disabilities is one that I am passionate about. My past volunteer work has involved working with and advocating on behalf of people living with disabilities in the legal and education systems.  Before commencing my legal career, I attended Western University studying in Political Science and subsequently Queen’s University where I earned degrees in the areas of Industrial Relations and Law.  I am thankful for the chance to apply my background to support Bridges to Belonging in fostering inclusion and overcoming isolation in our community. In my spare time, I enjoy playing sports, going for weekend walks, and following current events.

Giovanni Giuga

Headshot for Giovanni Giuga

Treasurer

more

I grew up in Grey Highlands, Ontario where my family still lives. I made Waterloo Region my home after studying political science at Laurier. I later studied at McGill University (MA) and the University of Ottawa (JD). I was called to the bar in 2023 and am an Associate at SV Law LLP.

While studying at Laurier, I started volunteering with local autism organizations at the time because I saw the challenges that my parents and sister faced while navigating her adulthood, Once I came back to Waterloo Region, I decided to get involved locally again by serving on Bridges to Belonging’s Board and act as its Treasurer because it is an organization committed walks alongside people like my sister.

I sat as a 2-time member of the Region of Waterloo’s Community Change Committee for the Upstream Fund. I have been published in the Lawyer’s Daily (now Law360), Ottawa Law Review Blog, Toronto Star, and co-authored two book chapters. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, squash, golf, cooking comfort food, collecting records, staying up-to date on Canadian politics, and tossing a football.

Nancy Bird, BA, MA (Leadership)

Headshot of Nancy Bird

Secretary

more

A life-long resident of Kitchener, I have over 20 years of experience as a senior leader in not-for-profit. My experience includes strategy and operational planning, grantmaking, cross-functional team leadership, community engagement, and fundraising. I have worked closely with community organizations, local government, and other funders. I recently started my own side business focused on helping not-for-profit organizations and small businesses with projects, and coaching and consulting on leadership, engagement, team building, and resource development.

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Waterloo, Master of Arts degree in Leadership from University of Guelph, Adult Teacher/Trainer certificate from Conestoga College, Management and Leadership certificate from Laurier’s Faculty of Social Work, and am an alumnus of Leadership Waterloo Region.

I joined the Board of Bridges to Belonging because I believe we all deserve to live the life we want, and Bridges to Belonging uses an approach that empowers people to do just that. The values of the organization align with my own and I know from experience that the staff are dedicated and passionate about what they do.


Brenda Pearce

Headshot of Brenda Pearce

Board Member

more

With more than 30 years of dedicated executive administration experience in the not-for-profit, high tech and corporate workforce, Brenda brings to the Board, a solid foundation of executive office administration/management, communications coordination, and, social media and event planning, as well as previous not-for-profit Board experience.

“The vision of Bridges to Belonging is a simple one really – to see Waterloo Region as a community where everyone belongs – where we value and celebrate the uniqueness of each and every person, no matter their ability or disability; where we honour choice and help each other live an inclusive life in community.  Having worked and volunteered in both the corporate and not-for-profit sectors in Waterloo Region, I believe that this vision is one that is worth working towards.

As a member of the Bridges to Belonging Board of Directors, I’m thrilled to see the accomplishments of the many people that Bridges to Belonging serves and reaches, and to know that what we do makes a difference in our community.

I look forward to working with the Board, our staff team, and the community at large to make this vision a reality.

Tanuj Dalal

Headshot of Tanuj Dalal

Board Member

more

My name is Tanuj Dalal. I am a dedicated professional working in primary care, driven by a passion for community and inclusivity. With a pharmacy and healthcare administration background, I have acquired a deep understanding of the healthcare system and its vital role in serving communities.

In addition to my professional pursuits, I actively contribute to community initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. By collaborating with local organizations, advocating for policy changes, and raising awareness about the importance of inclusivity, I work tirelessly to create spaces where everyone feels valued and accepted. My passion for community and commitment to removing inclusion barriers make me a compassionate and inspiring advocate for change.

I understand the importance of creating spaces where individuals of all abilities are empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose.

Michelle MacArthur

Bridges to Belonging Logo

Board Member

more

Dorian Walden

Bridges to Belonging Logo

Board Member

more