IIBA Ottawa‑Outaouais has launched a new season with a message from President Ziad Sakr about the chapter’s plans. The post thanks members for their ongoing support, recognizes past leadership, and welcomes the incoming President‑Elect. It indicates that the year’s programming is taking shape and references several recent events and conversations. An in‑person celebration for the chapter’s 20th anniversary is also highlighted, with more information to come. To learn more about the season ahead and how to stay connected, read the full article.
In this newsletter, I would like to welcome you to a new season and a fresh opportunity to work together toward achieving our chapter's mission and vision. Let’s look at how we plan to
accomplish that.
accomplish that.
First, I want to thank all IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Chapter members for your unlimited support and for believing in our work. I can’t believe how quickly time flies; this newsletter marks the
beginning of the second half of my presidency. I would like to extend a special thank you to Helen Racette, our Chapter Past President, for her remarkable dedication and support. Her
contributions will always be recognized and deeply appreciated. Furthermore, please join me in welcoming our new President-Elect, Myla Hum. I am confident she will be one of the best
presidents this chapter has ever seen.
beginning of the second half of my presidency. I would like to extend a special thank you to Helen Racette, our Chapter Past President, for her remarkable dedication and support. Her
contributions will always be recognized and deeply appreciated. Furthermore, please join me in welcoming our new President-Elect, Myla Hum. I am confident she will be one of the best
presidents this chapter has ever seen.
Now, let’s talk business! While the chapter was on summer holiday, a hard-working team was operating behind the scenes. Immediately following our last AGM, the team met virtually to plan
our upcoming programming year. Believe me, we have an exciting lineup for the next season, and we will be relying on your continued support to make it happen.
our upcoming programming year. Believe me, we have an exciting lineup for the next season, and we will be relying on your continued support to make it happen.
Here is what we are planning:
- 9 Chapter Meetings
- 10 Study Group Sessions
- 4 Collaborative Lunch and Learn Sessions
- 2 Interactive Workshops
- Career and Networking Fair
Our schedule is about to get even busier because we are also planning to celebrate our chapter’s 20th anniversary! This is an open invitation for all chapter members to come socialize
and meet the past presidents and board members who set up the foundation of our chapter. This event will take place in person, and we are aiming for December 5, 2026. Please write
back to me directly to confirm your attendance. Stay tuned to our event calendar as more details unfold!
and meet the past presidents and board members who set up the foundation of our chapter. This event will take place in person, and we are aiming for December 5, 2026. Please write
back to me directly to confirm your attendance. Stay tuned to our event calendar as more details unfold!
I would also like to share a few highlights of what happened while the chapter was on holiday:
- Annual President’s Dinner: At the end of June, we kept our annual tradition alive and met for a social dinner to share stories about our history. Sincere thanks to all past, current, and president-elect leaders for demonstrating the strong ownership that chapter leadership requires. For more details, view our LinkedIn post.
- Volunteer Brunch: A group of board members and volunteers gathered on Saturday, August 22, for a social brunch to catch up and welcome potential new volunteers. You can see the photos here: https://lnkd.in/p/g3T2nbuz
- Global Recognition: In celebration of our 20th anniversary, I had the privilege of speaking to IIBA Global about enabling confidence in business analysis. To watch the full video, visit IIBA Global's LinkedIn page
- City of Ottawa Panel: Our President and President-Elect were invited as guest speakers for a panel discussion with the City of Ottawa to discuss "The BA Role in Project Management".
All of this incredible momentum built up before the official season even started!
In closing, I want to thank every single member, volunteer, deputy, and board member for your priceless support. We would not be where we are today without your hard work. I look forward
to delivering even more value this year and proving that the IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Chapter remains one of the premier chapters in the region.
to delivering even more value this year and proving that the IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Chapter remains one of the premier chapters in the region.
Thank you,
Ziad Sakr, MBA, CBAP ®, AAC, PMP ®
President, IIBA Ottawa-Outaouais Chapter