We are delighted to officially announce two key leadership appointments at HelpAge Canada, reflecting our commitment to service excellence and advancing the well-being, inclusion, and dignity of older adults in Canada and around the world.
Effective April 1, 2025, Dr. Raza Mirza has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Shelina Gwaduri-Dilgir has been appointed Chief Development Officer (CDO). Both bring extensive experience, deep passion, and a shared vision for strengthening communities and transforming the experience of ageing.
Dr. Raza M. Mirza, PhD – Chief Operating Officer
A respected leader and academic in gerontology and the social determinants of health, Raza will oversee HelpAge Canada’s day-to-day operations, including policy and procedures, IT and financial systems, HR functions, and communications. He will work closely with the leadership team to drive our mission forward, ensuring impactful program delivery, operational excellence, and strategic growth. As our former Director of National Partnerships and Knowledge Mobilization, we are pleased to see Raza step into this critical role at a crucial time. He will also continue his work as an Assistant Professor (Status) at the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Institute for Life Course and Ageing.
Shelina Gwaduri-Dilgir, MA, CFRE – Chief Development Officer
As HelpAge Canada’s first-ever CDO, Shelina will lead the development of a multi-year fundraising strategy, build a robust campaign pipeline, and enhance donor stewardship. She will focus on expanding philanthropic partnerships to strengthen HelpAge Canada’s programs and community impact. With over 20 years of experience in fundraising and nonprofit leadership, she has played a pivotal role in growing programming, improving governance, and securing sustainable funding. A Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), she is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and has contributed to key fundraising initiatives, including serving on a national evaluation panel for Charity Village’s Top Canadian Fundraising Projects.
Looking Ahead
Raza and Shelina embody the leadership, vision, and dedication that define HelpAge Canada. Their expertise will strengthen our role in mobilizing the Community-Based Seniors’ Services (CBSS) sector, supporting older adults, and advocating for their rights in Canada and globally.
These appointments mark an exciting step forward in our mission to create a world where all older adults can live safe, healthy, and dignified lives. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Raza Mirza and Shelina Gwaduri-Dilgir to their new roles and this exciting new chapter for HelpAge Canada.
