Empowered Kids Ontario welcomes new board members

November 14, 2023

Empowered Kids Ontario today announced the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors: Christine Williams C.Dir., and Christianne Abou-Saab. Elected at the EKO Annual Meeting, they begin serving immediately.

Both bring with them a unique perspective and the same unyielding drive that kids with developmental disabilities and differences live their best lives.

“The directors and I are proud to welcome these incredible leaders as new colleagues on the EKO board,” says Tina Langlois, EKO’s Board Chair. “Christine and Christianne will add tremendous value to the organization with their expertise from across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.”

EKO is committed to supporting the association’s members in the development of a province-wide system of supports and services and best practices to improve outcomes for kids disabilities and developmental differences, including advancing education by providing scholarships for post-secondary education and career training.

“A central component of this work is to ensure that EKO’s governance includes an array of voices, a diversity of perspectives, and strong engaged leaders to support the excellent work,” says Ms. Langlois. “We look forward to the work ahead, and we are grateful to have the support of such passionate and engaged individuals as we move forward.”

Christine Williams is a distinguished and forward-thinking Chartered Director whose exceptional career trajectory reflects decades of impactful leadership and strategic insight at Scotiabank where she served as vice president.

Her many contributions leave a legacy of empowerment and progress in the non-profit sector including at The Scarborough Hospital Foundation, The College Compensation and Appointments Council, and the Project for the Advancement of Childhood Education among many other appointments.

Christine has been honored as one of Canada's top 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women. Her accomplishments have also been recognized with the Heritage Award from Transformation Institute & Silvertrust Media, the Margot Franseen Leadership Award, the Tropicana Community Builder Award, and the Woman of Honour Award from The Black Business and Professional Association.

An esteemed member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and a Governance Solutions Director Community member, Christine embodies leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to advancing communities.

Christianne Abou-Saab is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Director of Finance at the Law Society of Ontario. She is skilled in leading finance functions including financial planning and budget, financial reporting, internal controls and process improvement. Prior to joining the Law Society, Christianne worked in healthcare finance where she developed a great appreciation for organizations that strengthen relationships and support communities.

A firm believer in supporting one’s community, Christianne brings governance experience to the EKO Board, having previously served on the Children’s Treatment Network board of directors including two years as Chair. Christianne also serves as a board member at CrossTown Family Health Team.

“Every EKO board director brings years of professional experience, expertise and knowledge to the association,” says EKO CEO Jennifer Churchill. “We’re thrilled to welcome these community leaders to support the association and our membership.”

EKO’s skills-based board is made up of professionals from a variety of backgrounds and sectors, all of whom share a common interest in ensuring kids with developmental disabilities and differences, and their families, live their best lives. The EKO board includes individuals who also bring living experiences to this role.

Learn more about the EKO Board of Directors.