Our Leadership

Paula Telfer

Chief Executive Officer

Paula Telfer joined Carya as the CEO in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of expertise and passion for meeting the needs of the community. As an award-winning social impact professional and seasoned executive leader, Paula blends passion and professionalism to lead Team Carya in meeting the evolving needs of thousands of community members each year.

Jade Powers

Director, Programs

Jade joined Carya in 2021 and has held various roles, including Manager of Counselling Services. With an educational background in Social Work and Creative Arts Therapies, Jade has spent over 25 years working with families in various capacities to create positive change. For 20 years, she served as a behavioural consultant for families with children with disabilities and founded a barrier-free art centre offering inclusive arts programs. Appointed Director of Programs in January 2025, Jade is committed to making a meaningful impact in the community. Outside of her professional work, she is a mixed media artist, blending creativity with her passion for supporting others.

Jason Lukman

Chief Finance and Risk Officer

Jason Lukman joined Carya in 2021, bringing nearly two decades of progressive experience as a financial practitioner. As a change leader and innovation advocate, Jason is responsible for stewarding the organization’s financial resources and strategic objectives. Jason is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), has an MBA in Innovation Leadership, and is a recipient of CPA Alberta’s Distinguished Service Award.

Tiffany Stevenson

Director, Social Investment & Public Relations

Tiffany Stevenson joined Carya in 2022 as the Director of Investor & Public Relations where she leads the organization’s fundraising, communications, and community engagement strategies. With more than a decade of experience in the social impact sector, she is passionate about building meaningful partnerships that connect people and philanthropy to strengthen individuals, families and communities across Calgary. Tiffany is an award-winning nonprofit leader who holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).

Steven Furgiuele

Director, People and Culture

Steven Furgiuele joined Carya in 2023, bringing experience as an award-winning hospitality professional and entrepreneur. Passionate about building strong teams and supportive workplaces, Steven leads Carya’s People and Culture work with a focus on clear practices, employee experience, and helping people do their best work. Known for his collaborative approach, Steven brings strategy and creativity to building people systems that support both employees and the organization, including a progressive approach to technology and automation.