Our Board

Shahbaz Khan, Board Chair | Associate Director, Wolters Kluwer, CPA, CA

Shahbaz is a commercial-minded CPA with over a decade of experience in public accounting and software companies serving accountants. His experience includes roles in audit, tax and driving strategy for technology and tools to transform the accounting profession.

Shahbaz has a strong sense of community and passion for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Having experienced the benefits of the agency’s programs first-hand as a youth, Shahbaz understands the power of mentorship and the positive network effects it creates. Prior to joining the Board, Shahbaz has also volunteered in the Game On and Homework Club Programs with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ of Niagara.

Board of Directors since 2021

Nida Abdul Wahid, Chair, Risk & Finance | Senior Manager, Cards Portfolio Management, Royal Bank of Canada

Nida is a finance professional with experience at a Big Four accounting firm, now working in Data & Analytics at Royal Bank of Canada. Passionate about using data-driven insights to guide strategic decision-making, Nida brings a unique blend of finance and analytics expertise to the Board. Committed to fostering impactful financial strategies, Nida is dedicated to advancing the Board’s mission and objectives. 

Nida holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto and is licensed as a Professional Accountant in the Province of Ontario. 

Board of Directors since 2024

Heather Davidson, Vice Chair | Supervisor, Program Development, City of Hamilton

Heather has been working in Recreation for over 20 years, and during that time has demonstrated her passion for high quality, child centered programming. She has experience working with, and leading teams who work with, many populations of children – including, preschool, school age, and youth age groups. She has a strong belief that program environments can contribute to positive child development and that staff have a responsibility to ensure programs meet the unique age/stage requirements for participants.

Board of Directors since 2023

T Robert Anderson, Chair, Fund Development | Senior Investment Advisor, Heritage Group, BComm, CFP, MFA-P

Rob has been in the Financial Services business for over 30 years. As a Senior Investment Advisor, Rob is a specialist in wealth, retirement income, estate planning and philanthropy. He is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with young professionals, pre- and post-retirees, and small to medium-sized business owners.

A lifelong Hamiltonian and devoted Ti-Cats fan, Rob was born, raised, and educated in Hamilton. He and his wife, Kathi, have lived in the St. Clair neighborhood for over 30 years and have two grown children. After graduating from McMaster, Rob was inspired to get involved with the community when he saw a sign promoting “Be a Big Brother” while driving past City Hall. He initially volunteered as a Big Brother and later contributed as a fundraiser for events like Golf and Bowl for Kids, eventually serving on the Board for almost a decade. Now that his children are adults, Rob is eager to re-engage with a charity that resonates with him.

Board of Directors since 2024

Melissa Finley, Chair, Strategy | Finance Executive

Melissa is a financial services executive with more than 25 years of experience in the banking industry. Her extensive career has included senior positions in finance, risk management, strategy, operations, and transformation.

Melissa is also deeply committed to community service. She previously served on the Board of the Oakville & Milton Humane Society, holding roles as Director and Treasurer. Additionally, Melissa is an active volunteer with TRIEC and Junior Achievement Canada, reflecting her dedication to making a positive impact in the GTA community and beyond.

Board of Directors since 2023

Sherry Hussain, Chair, Governance | Corporate & Commercial Lawyer, O’Connor MacLeod Hanna LLP

Board of Directors since 2024

Aaron Johnson | Senior Vice President, Nuclear, Aecon Group Inc.

Aaron Johnson is Senior Vice President, Nuclear, with the responsibility of leading the successful pursuit and execution of all nuclear projects within Aecon’s portfolio.

Beginning with Aecon in 2006, Aaron has diverse experience across many of Aecon’s operational and corporate teams, including the industrial, nuclear, and urban transportation sectors. He has been responsible for the pursuit and execution of some of Aecon’s most complex multi-disciplinary projects, including the Darlington Refurbishment project, GO Expansion On-Corridor project, and Scarborough Subway Extension project.

Aaron holds Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Engineering degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and is licensed as a Professional Engineer in the Province of Ontario.

Board of Directors since 2022

Nabeel Khan | Regional Vice-President, Royal Bank of Canada

Nabeel Khan brings 18 years of experience in financial services, specializing in Credit, Investment, Insurance & Wealth Management. Known for leadership, strategic thinking, business acumen, and community engagement, he is dedicated to lead RBC’s strategic priorities, Newcomer Integration in Canada, and Youth Empowerment. As Regional Vice President at RBC, Nabeel oversees and provides leadership to over 150 members, focusing on operational network, stakeholder engagement, and community representation, ensuring key strategic priorities are delivered. 

In his free time, Nabeel enjoys spending time with kids & family, travel and golf. 

Board of Directors since 2024

Michael Treadgold, Ex Officio  | Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Serving Grand Erie, Halton and Hamilton

Board of Directors since 2024

Ramit Raj | Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives & Change Management, Royal Bank of Canada

Board of Directors since 2024

Lucy Rasmussen | Assistant Crown Attorney, Mental Health Team Lead, Peel Crown Attorney’s Office

Board of Directors since 2024

Additional Resources:

Our Team | Annual Report