Welcoming Dr. Nketti Johnston-Taylor as CEO of the Centre for Newcomers

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Nketti Johnston-Taylor as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Newcomers.

Dr. Johnston-Taylor is a visionary and purpose-driven leader, a devoted wife and mother of twins, and an award-winning economist, academic, and organizational development expert. She holds a PhD in Economics, Politics, and Policy, and brings over 15 years of experience in building, leading, and transforming organizations with a focus on empowering leaders and fostering inclusive communities.

Her career spans impactful leadership roles within immigrant-serving agencies, where she has consistently demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and implementation, fundraising, and program management. As Executive Director of the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC), Dr. Johnston-Taylor championed the integration of internationally trained professionals into the Canadian workforce. Under her leadership, CRIEC’s operating budget grew by over 300%, and its team expanded by more than 200%.

Her contributions have earned her recognition as one of Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40, and she was a finalist for the 2025 Calgarian of the Year at the City of Calgary Awards. She also served as Co-Chair of the Alberta Government’s inaugural Black Advisory Council, amplifying voices and driving systemic change.

Dr. Johnston-Taylor is the founder and CEO of Mason Vanguard Consulting, where she advises organizations on strategy, evaluation, and equity. A passionate educator, she has taught courses in business, politics, community development, and research at Saint Mary’s University, the University of Calgary, and Ambrose University. Her board service includes Black North Initiative, Cause Canada, and the Calgary French International School. Through Rotary International, she recently designed and secured $100,000 in funding to launch a groundbreaking cervical cancer initiative—Sierra Leone’s first program dedicated to diagnosing and treating cervical cancer among marginalized women.

With a steadfast commitment to building inclusive, future-ready communities, Dr. Johnston-Taylor brings a wealth of experience, vision, and heart to the Centre for Newcomers. We are excited for the journey ahead under her leadership.

To learn more about Dr. Johnston-Taylor’s impactful work at CRIEC, click here: A New Chapter – Thank You for the Journey - Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC)