HRPA Western Chapter
Welcome to the HRPA Western Chapter
The Chapter Council act as ambassadors for the HRPA and the human resources (HR) profession, providing professional development opportunities, arranging networking and social events, hosting HR Power Lunch webinars, and facilitating ad-hoc volunteer opportunities. Chapter events provide members with the opportunity to develop skills and proficiencies, obtain CPD hours and build valuable connections with peers.
Chapter Councils also help promote and support HRPA initiatives such as the HRPA Mentorship Programs, HRPA Online Communities, HRPA Student activities and more. We encourage you to explore the HRPA website further to learn more about all that HRPA has to offer. We have included some helpful links below.
Whether you are a seasoned HR professional or a student who is looking to begin a career in HR, your Chapter Council and Chapter peers are here to support you!
Sincerely,
The Western Chapter Council
HRPA Western Chapter Map Boundaries
Leadership
Amanda Stokes, CHRL, MBA
Council Past Chair - Guelph
Amanda is an experienced HR Leader with a commitment to pay it forward to the HR profession and community. She has been a member of the HRPA since 2011, and has been involved with her local chapter ever since.
Amanda has spent the last 15 years working progressive HR roles, across multiple industries. In addition, she works part-time as a faculty member at both Conestoga College and the University of Guelph. She is best known for her pragmatic, forward-thinking approach, and her natural ability to find innovative solutions.
Amanda holds both a Bachelors (BComm) and Masters (MBA) in business administration, she has obtained her Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and Leader (CHRL) designations, is a PROSCI Certified Change Management Practitioner, and holds a Certificate in People Analytics.
Rosy Montini, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Hamilton
Rosy has worked in the Human Resources field for 20+ years. Her broad experience includes Labour/Employee Relations, Compensations/benefits, WSIB, performance & case management, payroll, recruitment and management. Her experience has been in various industries including Non for Profit Sector, Food Manufacturing , Consumer Goods & Packaging Industry and most currently Biotechnology.
Sherri Rossi, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Niagara
Sherri Rossi, CHRL has worked in the HR realm for the past 22 years and has been the Senior HR consultant with The Employers’ Choice Inc. (TEC) for the past 13 years.
Sherri has experience with many industries and specializes in assisting organizations in developing or enhancing their HR Practices, bringing about positive change for employees. Sherri is also a certified Workplace Harassment Investigator and has been conducting investigations for the past 11 years.
Sherri was the Program Development Chair and the Chair Elect for the HRPA Niagara Chapter and is an incoming Vice (Past) Chair Advisory for the Western Chapter Council.
Shelly Meadows, MBA, CPA
Council Past Chair - Halton
Shelly is a CHRP, MBA, CPA, and certified psychological health & safety advisor with executive-level experience and a passion for helping people and their organizations thrive. Shelly co-founded Navigation Consulting & Training (NavCT), to support healthy work environments as a business imperative for organizational success through strategic HR consulting, training & development, and workplace harassment investigations. Beyond work, Shelly enjoys sailing, squash, and random acts of kindness.
Laura Friesen, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Laura is the Co-Founder and Principal of Elevated HR & Consulting, an HR consulting firm offering fractional and project-based HR services. With a deep commitment to empowering businesses, Laura leverages over 17 years of progressive HR expertise in a variety of industries in Ontario & British Columbia to deliver tailored solutions in compliance, performance management, strategic HR planning, talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, & WSIB claims management.
Her approach blends practical insights with a strong understanding of employment standards and organizational development. Laura is passionate about fostering inclusive workplace cultures and is a sought-after advisor for small to medium-sized enterprises aiming to elevate their HR practices. Laura is excited to have been elected to the Western Chapter Council and is looking forward to making positive contributions to contribute to the ongoing development of our profession.
Catherine Phelps, JD
Council Volunteer
Catherine is a labour, employment and human rights lawyer at Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti LLP., a leading management-side labour and employment law firm. Catherine provides advice and representation to employers and HR professionals on a variety of issues including terminations, grievances, human rights, employment agreements, and workplace policies. Catherine appears on behalf of employers at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, and grievance arbitrations. Catherine also conducts workplace investigations and has been retained as an independent third party investigator to conduct investigations into allegations of harassment, workplace violence, and discrimination.
Kathryn (Kate) O’Leary, MBA, CHRL
Council Volunteer
A Certified Human Resources Leader with progressive HR partnership experience within the professional service and supply chain sectors, Kate brings strong business acumen and strategic planning skills to her role as Director of Human Resources for Endeavour Solutions Inc. Kate also has the honor of teaching post graduate HR students at Conestoga College on a part time basis. Courses she has taught include Occupational Health, Safety & Wellness, Human Resources Business Strategy and Leadership Models and Applications for the Emerging Workforce. Kate is excited to be an ambassador for the HRPA, and looks forward to contributing to the design and delivery of professional development, networking, and social events for the Chapter.
Victoria Bell- Cassells, CHRP
Council Volunteer
Victoria holds her CHRP designation, and is a DEI certified professional. With a background in Psychology and Human Resources from the University of Guelph, Victoria leverages her expertise to champion equitable practices that empower those around her.
Since starting her HR journey, Victoria has been an active member of HRPA, engaging in continuous professional development through local chapter events and HR conferences. Victoria strives to be a voice for those who may not have one, breaking stigmas, fostering open dialogue, and promoting policies that prioritize mental well-being as a cornerstone of professional and personal development.
Her career is marked by a passion for enhancing workplace culture and employee engagement, leading initiatives that emphasize clear communication, empathy, and well-being. Victoria’s approach values continuous learning, authentic connections, and mindful leadership.
Christopher (Chris) Chehowski, CHRP
Council Volunteer
I am a strong talent developer who consistently has built foundational success through building relationships, leaning into talent tools, and promoting growth and development. With 25+ years of retail leadership experience, I have successfully thrived leading in an ever-changing environment by fostering high-performance teams, creating a culture of innovation and radical candor, and a customer-centric approach.
I am currently a Regional Director with Indigo, leading 17 stores across Southwestern Ontario area. My experience in this role, as well as the partnerships that I have curated with business partners across the country, inspired me to actively pursue and achieve my CHRP designation last year.
I am passionate about giving back to the HR community that has supported me in my journey and am looking forward to making an impact to support the learning, growth, and connection points of HR professionals across Southwestern Ontario.
Akpobaro (Obaro) Aziza, CHRL, CTDP, PMP, SPHRi
Council Volunteer
Obaro is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 12 years of experience, currently overseeing the training and education function within a manufacturing environment. His extensive career encompasses consulting, Learning and Development, and Talent Management across multiple industries.
Obaro has successfully led key initiatives, including the implementation of leadership development programs and competency-based training tailored to align with organizational goals. He has designed and executed comprehensive employee development programs, onboarding, and continuous learning initiatives, which have significantly enhanced workforce skills and overall productivity. Additionally, Obaro has led talent management strategies focused on career development, succession planning, and nurturing high-potential employees.
His commitment to professional growth is reflected in his certifications, including CHRL, CTDP, PMP, and SHPRi.
Success (Chinasa) Nwanekezi, MHRM, BEd
Council Volunteer
With extensive HR experience across finance, oil and gas, consulting, recruitment, and nuclear energy, Chinasa excels in professional development, talent management, recruitment and career planning.
She is passionate about community service, actively mentoring teenagers, youths, and organizing mentorship sessions, workshops, and networking events to empower women in their careers. Chinasa has contributed to international education and planning projects and enjoys teaching job seekers about job searching and interviewing techniques.
Chinasa holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Education and English and a Master’s in Management with a focus on Human Resource Management. Currently pursuing the Certified Human Resources Leader designation, Chinasa is also certified in AODA, WHMIS, and managing workplace Violence & Harassment.
In her leisure time, Chinasa enjoys volunteering, making art and crafts, drawing, and event planning.
Amanda Stokes, CHRL, MBA
Council Past Chair - Guelph
Amanda is an experienced HR Leader with a commitment to pay it forward to the HR profession and community. She has been a member of the HRPA since 2011, and has been involved with her local chapter ever since.
Amanda has spent the last 15 years working progressive HR roles, across multiple industries. In addition, she works part-time as a faculty member at both Conestoga College and the University of Guelph. She is best known for her pragmatic, forward-thinking approach, and her natural ability to find innovative solutions.
Amanda holds both a Bachelors (BComm) and Masters (MBA) in business administration, she has obtained her Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and Leader (CHRL) designations, is a PROSCI Certified Change Management Practitioner, and holds a Certificate in People Analytics.
Rosy Montini, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Hamilton
Rosy has worked in the Human Resources field for 20+ years. Her broad experience includes Labour/Employee Relations, Compensations/benefits, WSIB, performance & case management, payroll, recruitment and management. Her experience has been in various industries including Non for Profit Sector, Food Manufacturing , Consumer Goods & Packaging Industry and most currently Biotechnology.
Sherri Rossi, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Niagara
Sherri Rossi, CHRL has worked in the HR realm for the past 22 years and has been the Senior HR consultant with The Employers’ Choice Inc. (TEC) for the past 13 years.
Sherri has experience with many industries and specializes in assisting organizations in developing or enhancing their HR Practices, bringing about positive change for employees. Sherri is also a certified Workplace Harassment Investigator and has been conducting investigations for the past 11 years.
Sherri was the Program Development Chair and the Chair Elect for the HRPA Niagara Chapter and is an incoming Vice (Past) Chair Advisory for the Western Chapter Council.
Shelly Meadows, MBA, CPA
Council Past Chair - Halton
Shelly is a CHRP, MBA, CPA, and certified psychological health & safety advisor with executive-level experience and a passion for helping people and their organizations thrive. Shelly co-founded Navigation Consulting & Training (NavCT), to support healthy work environments as a business imperative for organizational success through strategic HR consulting, training & development, and workplace harassment investigations. Beyond work, Shelly enjoys sailing, squash, and random acts of kindness.
Laura Friesen, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Laura is the Co-Founder and Principal of Elevated HR & Consulting, an HR consulting firm offering fractional and project-based HR services. With a deep commitment to empowering businesses, Laura leverages over 17 years of progressive HR expertise in a variety of industries in Ontario & British Columbia to deliver tailored solutions in compliance, performance management, strategic HR planning, talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, & WSIB claims management.
Her approach blends practical insights with a strong understanding of employment standards and organizational development. Laura is passionate about fostering inclusive workplace cultures and is a sought-after advisor for small to medium-sized enterprises aiming to elevate their HR practices. Laura is excited to have been elected to the Western Chapter Council and is looking forward to making positive contributions to contribute to the ongoing development of our profession.
Catherine Phelps, JD
Council Volunteer
Catherine is a labour, employment and human rights lawyer at Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti LLP., a leading management-side labour and employment law firm. Catherine provides advice and representation to employers and HR professionals on a variety of issues including terminations, grievances, human rights, employment agreements, and workplace policies. Catherine appears on behalf of employers at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, and grievance arbitrations. Catherine also conducts workplace investigations and has been retained as an independent third party investigator to conduct investigations into allegations of harassment, workplace violence, and discrimination.
Kathryn (Kate) O’Leary, MBA, CHRL
Council Volunteer
A Certified Human Resources Leader with progressive HR partnership experience within the professional service and supply chain sectors, Kate brings strong business acumen and strategic planning skills to her role as Director of Human Resources for Endeavour Solutions Inc. Kate also has the honor of teaching post graduate HR students at Conestoga College on a part time basis. Courses she has taught include Occupational Health, Safety & Wellness, Human Resources Business Strategy and Leadership Models and Applications for the Emerging Workforce. Kate is excited to be an ambassador for the HRPA, and looks forward to contributing to the design and delivery of professional development, networking, and social events for the Chapter.
Victoria Bell- Cassells, CHRP
Council Volunteer
Victoria holds her CHRP designation, and is a DEI certified professional. With a background in Psychology and Human Resources from the University of Guelph, Victoria leverages her expertise to champion equitable practices that empower those around her.
Since starting her HR journey, Victoria has been an active member of HRPA, engaging in continuous professional development through local chapter events and HR conferences. Victoria strives to be a voice for those who may not have one, breaking stigmas, fostering open dialogue, and promoting policies that prioritize mental well-being as a cornerstone of professional and personal development.
Her career is marked by a passion for enhancing workplace culture and employee engagement, leading initiatives that emphasize clear communication, empathy, and well-being. Victoria’s approach values continuous learning, authentic connections, and mindful leadership.
Christopher (Chris) Chehowski, CHRP
Council Volunteer
I am a strong talent developer who consistently has built foundational success through building relationships, leaning into talent tools, and promoting growth and development. With 25+ years of retail leadership experience, I have successfully thrived leading in an ever-changing environment by fostering high-performance teams, creating a culture of innovation and radical candor, and a customer-centric approach.
I am currently a Regional Director with Indigo, leading 17 stores across Southwestern Ontario area. My experience in this role, as well as the partnerships that I have curated with business partners across the country, inspired me to actively pursue and achieve my CHRP designation last year.
I am passionate about giving back to the HR community that has supported me in my journey and am looking forward to making an impact to support the learning, growth, and connection points of HR professionals across Southwestern Ontario.
Akpobaro (Obaro) Aziza, CHRL, CTDP, PMP, SPHRi
Council Volunteer
Obaro is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 12 years of experience, currently overseeing the training and education function within a manufacturing environment. His extensive career encompasses consulting, Learning and Development, and Talent Management across multiple industries.
Obaro has successfully led key initiatives, including the implementation of leadership development programs and competency-based training tailored to align with organizational goals. He has designed and executed comprehensive employee development programs, onboarding, and continuous learning initiatives, which have significantly enhanced workforce skills and overall productivity. Additionally, Obaro has led talent management strategies focused on career development, succession planning, and nurturing high-potential employees.
His commitment to professional growth is reflected in his certifications, including CHRL, CTDP, PMP, and SHPRi.
Success (Chinasa) Nwanekezi, MHRM, BEd
Council Volunteer
With extensive HR experience across finance, oil and gas, consulting, recruitment, and nuclear energy, Chinasa excels in professional development, talent management, recruitment and career planning.
She is passionate about community service, actively mentoring teenagers, youths, and organizing mentorship sessions, workshops, and networking events to empower women in their careers. Chinasa has contributed to international education and planning projects and enjoys teaching job seekers about job searching and interviewing techniques.
Chinasa holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Education and English and a Master’s in Management with a focus on Human Resource Management. Currently pursuing the Certified Human Resources Leader designation, Chinasa is also certified in AODA, WHMIS, and managing workplace Violence & Harassment.
In her leisure time, Chinasa enjoys volunteering, making art and crafts, drawing, and event planning.
Events
HRPA Events
Keep up to date with the latest HRPA events.
Nov06
Western (St. Catharines): REGISTRATION CLOSED IN-PERSON HR Metrics and Analytics
In this workshop, discover how HR metrics and data analytics can help your organizations solve real-world business challenges and drive...
Learn MoreNov07
HR Power Lunch: Unlocking Potential: The Next Generation of Performance Management
Performance management holds the potential to be one of the most vital human resource programs, yet this goal remains elusive. Unfortunately, traditional...
Learn MoreNov12
Western (Oakville): IN-PERSON WAITLIST ONLY Embracing Operational and Business Agility: A Gateway to AI Preparedness
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, adaptability has become the cornerstone of success. Now, as the transformative power of Artificial...
Learn MoreToday’s HR leaders face many competing priorities— while reimagining the future of work and ensuring employees stay engaged, and more.
The HRPA is here to partner with you through this constantly changing landscape. We are dedicated to empowering HR professionals, ensuring that you, alongside our 24,000 members, remain equipped to respond in an ever-evolving world.
Joining the HRPA means becoming part of a dynamic community of HR professionals dedicated to ethical practice, continuous learning, and advancing the HR profession.
By giving you the tools you need to create positive change, we’re empowering members, inspiring prosperity, and reshaping the future of HR in Ontario and beyond.
The HRPA Mentorship Program encourages career growth and development by providing students – and HR Professionals who are early in their careers – with the opportunity to receive one-on-one coaching from more experienced Human Resources Professionals.
Volunteering at HRPA is a rewarding membership experience and volunteers are critical to the association’s continued success.
With the expertise and involvement of members, we create awareness of workplace issues, promote excellence in human resources management practices and provide services that support the HR community, knowledge-sharing and continuous professional development.
HRPA members and students are involved in a variety of volunteer service opportunities including:
- HRPA Board of Directors
- Committees
- Conferences, Forums and Summits
- Mentoring
- Focus Groups
- Adhoc Opportunities
- Outreach Initiatives
- Chapter Councils
The first step to volunteering at HRPA is registering in our volunteer services database. If your registration is accepted, you receive a notification. When an opportunity that matches your preferences and/or skills becomes available, you may be contacted directly with more information about the available volunteer role.