Breadcrumb Trail Links
Chantal Makela, CEO of Spark Employment Services, assumes role of interim executive director at SWC
Published Sep 06, 2025 • Last updated 2 hours ago • 1 minute read
Chantal Makela, executive director of Spark Employment Services, makes a point at the grand re-opening celebration at the new location at 435 Notre Dame Ave. in Sudbury, Ont. on Thursday October 24, 2019. Photo by John Lappa /Sudbury StarArticle content
The Sudbury Women’s Centre, now officially recognized by its acronym SWC, has announced a new strategic partnership with Spark Employment Services, marking a significant step forward in its mission to strengthen leadership and community impact.
Advertisement 2
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
Article content
Beginning this month, Chantal Makela, CEO of Spark Employment Services, will assume the role of interim executive director at SWC. While both organizations will continue to operate independently, the collaboration is designed to foster innovation, enhance service excellence, and build stronger community connections.
Article content
Recommended Videos
Article content
“This partnership marks an exciting and strategic step forward for SWC,” said Melissa Pitfield, chair of SWC’s board of directors. “By working collaboratively with Spark Employment Services, we are investing in leadership, strengthening our organizational infrastructure, and creating new possibilities for our clients and community.
“We are confident that Chantal Makela’s leadership will support SWC’s continued growth and innovation as we move into this next chapter.”
Sudbury Star Morning Briefing
Thanks for signing up!
Article content
Advertisement 3
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
Article content
Makela echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the opportunity to build more connected support systems in Greater Sudbury. “By combining the strengths of SWC and Spark Employment Services, we’re not only enhancing our capacity to serve, but also deepening our commitment to innovation, equity, and leadership development,” she said.
“I’m honoured to step into this interim role at SWC and excited to foster growth and impact alongside a team equally dedicated to creating lasting change.”
Spark Employment Services board chair James Burke expressed full support for the partnership and Makela’s dual role. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to responsive, people-centered service, and we believe it will strengthen both organizations,” he said.
Advertisement 4
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.
Article content
About SWC
SWC (formerly Sudbury Women’s Centre) is dedicated to supporting women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals through access to basic needs, resources, services, and education in a compassionate and inclusive environment. Learn more at sudburywc.ca.
About Spark Employment Services
Established in 1986, Spark Employment Services is a non-profit organization providing employment and education services to residents of Greater Sudbury. Visit sudburyemployment.ca for more information.
Bluesky: @sudburystar.bsky.social
X: @SudburyStar
Article content
Share this article in your social network