ICAI Board of Directors

Our volunteer Board of Directors come from different communities and professional backgrounds but are all committed to ICAI's vision of an arts community that is diverse, safe, inclusive, and accessible. They are community leaders who contribute to the vibrancy and economic growth of Alberta. The board provides strategic direction for ICAI and helps to maintain the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and sustainability.

ICAI’s board is a key contributor to the organization’s success and collectively carry diverse experience in: the arts, finance, law, academia, business development, community building, grassroots organizing, executive leadership, fundraising, marketing, strategic planning, and organizational stewardship.

Our Team
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Toyin Oladele, (she/her), Executive Director 
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Toyin Oladele is a multidisciplinary artist, curator, strategic consultant, and arts manager with a demonstrated history of excellence in programming, community and arts-based event planning, production, and engagement.
Her professional experience is rooted in making arts and community spaces connective, inclusive, and vibrant through collaborations and strategic partnerships. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in French Literature with a double minor in Performing Arts and English Literature. She is an advocate for equity, and champions for diversity. She mentors newcomers from different countries and professional backgrounds; she enjoys creating art with diverse communities.
Smitha Varghese, (she/her), Programs Manager
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​Smitha is an articulate, focused, and energetic administrator with proven expertise in arts management, event planning, program coordination, and creating learning and networking opportunities for immigrant artists. She is a Programs Manager and facilitator in the arts who is always ready for new challenges and has a parallel interest in modern technology with her academic accomplishments in Robotics and IT. Also, experienced in leading and training teams in non-profit and tech environments.
Priya Badda, (she/her), Admin Coordinator
 
​Priya is an administrative assistant and service supervisor. She has always been a people person and strived to help others. She has eight years of experience in front-line service, working in hospitals, communities, and schools. Her experience has allowed her to successfully lead teams and organize projects.
Nelly Bentsianova, (she/her), Communications and Marketing Coordinator
 
Nelly is a curious visual storyteller, artist and designer based in Calgary who is driven by emotionally evoking design work, which aims to effectively align with her client’s goals. She is responsible for ensuring ICAI’s voice is made visual throughout the brand’s platforms; website, social media, and newsletter. While art directing her own projects she's felt encouraged to meet and collaborate with creatives with different skill sets to bring visions to life, exchange ideas, and build communities. As an immigrant herself, joining the ICAI team is an exciting and rewarding opportunity, and she looks forward to working with more artists and culture workers in Alberta!

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Anakha Jose (she/her), Engagement Coordinator

Anakha is a dedicated and enthusiastic coordinator. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the arts sector shines through her daily work, making a lasting impact on the Immigrant society. She is also a Software Engineer who is passionate about Data Analysis. Her strong tech background allows her to leverage technology and data-driven insights to further ICAI's goals. She thrives on building bridges and ensuring that ICAI’s message reaches its intended audience effectively. She has performed as a theatre artist in the past and is a fan of plays.