Gladys Okine-Ahovi

Gladys Ahovi joined the Foundation for Black Communities in October 2022 as president and CEO, bringing her considerable vision and innovation to the foundation and putting her at the forefront of Black female leadership in Canada. She is an award-winning workforce strategist, organizational development professional, community development leader, and master connector who thrives leading complex change processes. She is a Ghanian-Canadian who understood at a young age that investing in Black youth in underserved communities was the key to unlocking the vast potential of Black excellence in Canada.

Her career spans more than 20 years of service to the community, cementing her reputation as a trusted and reliable partner and leader in the social service sector. Since 2001, she has held senior positions with key non-profits across the city, including YMCA of Greater Toronto, WoodGreen Community Services, community economic development at Toronto Community Housing, and First Work: Ontario’s Youth Employment Network. Community involvement is at the very core of her values.