Tonie Chaltas has been involved in diversity-related issues since her time in university, where she was part of the first crew on Bluenose II that had both males and females. She learned how to challenge heritage and history if it was unjust and fight for equality. Her passion for women’s rights and equality continues to this day.
After the murder of George Floyd in 2020, Tonie needed to do more. She got involved in the early formation of the BlackNorth Initiative (BNI) as the Engagement Working Group Leader. During her year and a half as a volunteer, Tonie onboarded over 100 signatories to the BlackNorth Pledge. She guided leaders in how to get started in their DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) journey, and led a team that built and oversaw programs to support BNI signatories in achieving their commitments made in the Pledge.
Tonie often speaks to business and HR audiences on the topics of DEI. She also promotes strategies and tactics to recruit, onboard and retain immigrants. She is passionate about busting the myths that still exist about immigrants’ contributions to society, their community and their employer.
Tonie joined Achēv as the Chief Executive Officer after a lengthy, distinguished career in executive operations and public affairs. She spent 20 years with a global communications firm where she held leadership roles on the consulting and operations sides of the business. These included National Public Affairs Practice Leader, co-leader of the Toronto office and interim roles, including National Health Practice Leader and General Manager for Alberta and the Montreal office. During her tenure, Tonie held the positions of Chief Integration Officer and Chief Operating Officer while maintaining her consulting practice. In this capacity, Tonie held responsibility for strategic and business planning for Canada for 12 years. She also oversaw the global firm’s planning for several years.
Her consulting career, coupled with her time as a political advisor to a Leader, then Premier of Ontario, put Tonie at the intersection of the public and private sector. She understands how to build strong working relationships and partnerships with and between government, business and stakeholder communities. Tonie is known as a collaborative, inclusive, motivational leader and mentor.
Tonie splits her time between the city and the country. She cherishes and enjoys her time with her husband and her mini Bernedoodle dog, Coco.