We’re excited to announce that Spectrum’s new Executive Director is Suzie Taka (she/her)!
Suzie Taka has been a dedicated community organizer and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate in Waterloo Region for over a decade. She has extensive experience in the non-profit and public sectors, most recently as part of the Reconciliation and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team at the Region of Waterloo. Suzie brings a strong background in stakeholder and government relations, community engagement, communications, public policy, and grant writing.
Her personal projects include producing multiple years of Rainbow Reels Queer and Trans Film Festival and co-founding LOL—KW’s first queer and feminist monthly stand-up comedy show. Suzie also served on Spectrum’s Board of Directors from October 20, 2019 – July 18, 2021.
She applies an anti-oppressive lens to her work and is committed to community building rooted in anti-racism and Truth and Reconciliation. Outside of work, you can find her biking with her wife and their five-year-old and twin two-year-olds, browsing a thrift store, or refinishing furniture.
Our outgoing Executive Director, Scott Williams, will work with Suzie for a few weeks to help ensure a smooth transition.
From Suzie
I am incredibly excited to step into the role of Executive Director at Spectrum, an organization I deeply believe in. As a queer person who has lived, worked, and built connections in Waterloo Region for over two decades, I have witnessed—and personally benefited from—the many supports, services, and resources Spectrum offers. It has been a privilege to watch Spectrum grow from a dream—a seed planted in this community—that has now taken root and flourished, thanks to the passion and dedication of so many.
I have been, and will continue to be, a strong advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities through an approach rooted in decolonization, anti-racism, and intersectionality. Despite the ongoing harm and setbacks our communities face, I believe in a future with more inclusion, belonging, and less hate. I look forward to nurturing what has been cultivated and fostering new growth as we continue building a vibrant and thriving space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
