The 2020 – 2021 ELN Executive Committee is a team of passionate, inclusive, and collaborative rising leaders who have volunteered their time over a two-year term to grow the impact of CivicAction’s Emerging Leaders Network and support fellow rising leaders across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
With applications now open for the 2022-2023 ELN Executive Committee, keep reading to learn more about our amazing current committee members and the roles you can apply for!
Being an ELN Co-Chair
Are you ready to accelerate your leadership journey by leading a driven team of volunteers and network of 3000+ rising leaders? ELN Co-Chairs work in collaboration with the ELN Program Manager to provide ongoing leadership to the Executive Committee and develop and execute a two-year strategic plan for the network. The Co-Chairs also represent the ELN on both the CivicAction and CivicAction Leadership Foundation Boards. Check out the full role description and fill out an application if this is an opportunity that excites you.
Take a minute to get to know Letecia Rose, a 2020-2021 ELN Co-Chair.

You should apply to join the ELN Executive Committee because it enables you to put your leadership capabilities to work in the best testing room possible – the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.”
Letecia Rose, 2020-2021 ELN Co-Chair
If you could tell rising leaders one reason why they should join the ELN Executive Committee, what would it be?
One reason that you should apply to join the ELN Executive Committee is because it enables you to put your leadership capabilities to work in the best testing room possible – the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. Through this experience, you collaborate, develop, and learn more than you expect, and from this experience you walk away with transferable skills and the knowledge that you have made an impact in making our communities a better place.
My most memorable moment as an ELN Executive Committee member was…
The Experience of being on the ELN Executive Committee during a global pandemic has definitely made the past 2 years memorable. We had to adapt to the changing times and address issues that were on the hearts and minds of the network. From addressing mental health, to creating spaces for Black leaders to connect, our programming was more responsive and more relevant than we ever anticipated. As a team, our ability to be agile, to pivot, and be there for each other virtually was remarkable, in my opinion.
Connect with Letecia on Twitter.
Being an ELN Programming Lead
Are you an enthusiastic event planner who is passionate about leadership development and community-building? Programming Leads help design and deliver creative and topical ELN events, such as networking activities, leadership development workshops, and opportunities to activate on relevant civic issues affecting the region. Learn more about the role by reading the full role description and fill out an application if this opportunity feels right for you.
Meet Rudolf du Toit, a 2020-2021 ELN Programming Lead, through this quick Q&A.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your role on the Executive Committee?
The most rewarding aspect of my role with the ELN Executive Committee has been the lasting connections and friendships I’ve made with fellow Executive Committee members. These are incredibly talented people who are deeply committed to improving our region, and we can count on each other for support as we take on the region’s challenges and navigate our leadership journeys and careers.
How has your involvement with the ELN Executive Committee developed your leadership skills?
I have significantly grown my confidence in my leadership skills and taken on more leadership roles in our region. Most importantly, I realized that you don’t need a title to be a leader. All you need to get started is to care about an issue and inspire others to care about it too.
Connect with Rudolf on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Being an ELN Communications Lead
Do you love finding creative ways to connect with others and make an impact? Communications Leads actively engage ELN members by supporting communication efforts, including social media, newsletters, and event marketing campaigns. Read the full role description to learn more and fill out an application if this seems like the right opportunity for you.
Read our rapid-fire Q&A with Debora Jesus, a 2020-2021 ELN Communications Lead.

Through my role on the ELN Executive Committee, I learned to not waste my seat at the table. While we live in diverse communities, we often don’t see that represented at leadership tables.”
Debora Jesus, 2020-2021 ELN Communications Lead
If you could tell rising leaders one reason why they should join the ELN Executive Committee, what would it be?
Joining the ELN Executive Committee is a great opportunity to work with peers from diverse industries and backgrounds who are committed to making an impact in their communities. On top of that, you’re also supporting the development of rising leaders across the GTHA with your skills, knowledge, and lived experience.
How has your involvement with the ELN Executive Committee developed your leadership skills?
Through my role on the ELN Executive Committee, I learned to not waste my seat at the table. While we live in diverse communities, we often don’t see that represented at leadership tables. This experience has taught me that, given the chance, I should always use my seat to elevate others who might not be given the same opportunity.
Connect with Debora on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Need more information before you’re ready to apply? Email the ELN Program Manager, Rebecca Klassen, at Rebecca.klaassen@civicaction.ca. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have!