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
Laura Friesen, CHRL
Council Chair
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.
Sherri Rossi, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Niagara
Sherri Rossi has worked as a Sr. HR consultant with The Employers’ Choice Inc. (TEC) since 2011 and has acted as a practitioner in the HR field for over 23 years.
Sherri has worked in the HR field in both Canada and the United States and has gained experience in a large variety of industries over the past 23 years. She also offers clients a niche expertise in two areas, as a Certified Workplace Harassment Investigator and training creator/facilitator.
Sherri holds an Honours BA in Psychology from Brock University and a post-graduate certificate in HR management from The University of California, Extension, Santa Cruz. She is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through the HRPA.
Sherri previously served two terms on the HRPA Niagara Chapter Council. She now sits on the council for the Western Niagara Chapter.
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
Chris is a proud member of the Western Chapter Council and experienced Regional Director with Indigo, where he leads a portfolio of stores across Southwestern Ontario. With a strong background in retail leadership and people development, he is passionate about driving performance through an engaging employee and customer experience. Chris leverages his leadership experience and CHRP designation to help create and support initiatives that positively impact employees across Canada, helping to shape an environment where people feel valued and empowered. Known for his collaborative leadership style, he focuses on building high-performing teams, fostering growth, and delivering results that align with both business goals and company values.
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.
Laura Friesen, CHRL
Council Chair
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.
Sherri Rossi, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – Niagara
Sherri Rossi has worked as a Sr. HR consultant with The Employers’ Choice Inc. (TEC) since 2011 and has acted as a practitioner in the HR field for over 23 years.
Sherri has worked in the HR field in both Canada and the United States and has gained experience in a large variety of industries over the past 23 years. She also offers clients a niche expertise in two areas, as a Certified Workplace Harassment Investigator and training creator/facilitator.
Sherri holds an Honours BA in Psychology from Brock University and a post-graduate certificate in HR management from The University of California, Extension, Santa Cruz. She is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through the HRPA.
Sherri previously served two terms on the HRPA Niagara Chapter Council. She now sits on the council for the Western Niagara Chapter.
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
Chris is a proud member of the Western Chapter Council and experienced Regional Director with Indigo, where he leads a portfolio of stores across Southwestern Ontario. With a strong background in retail leadership and people development, he is passionate about driving performance through an engaging employee and customer experience. Chris leverages his leadership experience and CHRP designation to help create and support initiatives that positively impact employees across Canada, helping to shape an environment where people feel valued and empowered. Known for his collaborative leadership style, he focuses on building high-performing teams, fostering growth, and delivering results that align with both business goals and company values.
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.
Today’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.