Nadja Shamess Merali

Nadja Shamess Merali is a seasoned professional with a robust background in strategic initiatives and business development, currently serving as the Senior Manager at Edmonton Newcomer Centre since January 2023. With prior experience as a Grant & Proposal Process System Specialist and Senior Program Advisor at Canadian Heritage, Nadja evaluated grants within the Canada Arts Presentation Fund program, emphasizing alignment with strategic priorities. Additionally, during tenure at Winspear Centre and Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, Nadja held roles including Executive Communications Officer and Patron Relations Manager, focusing on grant funding and donor stewardship. Earlier experience as a Disability Case Manager at Great-West Life involved managing long-term disability benefits for diverse individuals. Education includes a Bachelor’s Degree (Honours) in History and Political Science from Carleton University and ongoing studies in Teaching English as a Second Language at Algonquin College.