Our Board & Leadership
Karamo Fofana is a seasoned human services professional with over 15 years of experience supporting diverse communities through advocacy, behavioral intervention, health services, and social development initiatives. His career reflects a deep commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and advancing equitable access to community resources. Throughout his career, Karamo has contributed his expertise to numerous non‑profit organizations and private agencies across Alberta, consistently demonstrating leadership, compassion, and cultural responsiveness.
Karamo Fofana - President & CEO
Professional Profile
Karamo Fofana - President & CEO
Karamo Fofana is a seasoned human services professional with over 15 years of experience supporting diverse communities through advocacy, behavioral intervention, health services, and social development initiatives. His career reflects a deep commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and advancing equitable access to community resources. Throughout his career, Karamo has contributed his expertise to numerous non‑profit organizations and private agencies across Alberta, consistently demonstrating leadership, compassion, and cultural responsiveness.
In addition to his human services background, Karamo is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with hands‑on experience supporting individuals with acquired and traumatic brain injuries. His clinical training enhances his ability to provide holistic care, blending behavioral, medical, and social‑emotional support to improve client outcomes.
Karamo is also multilingual, fluent in English, French, and Spanish, allowing him to effectively serve diverse populations and bridge communication gaps within multicultural communities.
Human Services Expertise
Karamo’s extensive background in human services spans frontline support, program coordination, case management, crisis intervention, and community outreach. He has worked with children, youth, adults, and families navigating complex social, behavioral, medical, and economic challenges. His professional approach is grounded in:
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Client‑centered care
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Cultural humility and respect for diversity
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Trauma‑informed practice
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Evidence‑based intervention strategies
Karamo is widely recognized for his ability to build trust, communicate with clarity, and navigate sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy. His collaborative style has earned him respect among clients, colleagues, healthcare teams, and partner organizations.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
As a Licensed Practical Nurse, Karamo brings clinical expertise that strengthens his work in both community and residential settings. His nursing experience includes:
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Supporting individuals with brain injuries, cognitive impairments, and complex medical needs
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Monitoring health status, administering care, and implementing rehabilitation plans
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Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure continuity of care
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Providing education to families and caregivers on health management and recovery
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Applying a holistic approach that integrates medical, behavioral, and psychosocial support
His nursing background enhances his ability to respond to crises, assess risk, and deliver compassionate, evidence‑based care.
Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT)
As a Registered Behavioral Technician, Karamo brings specialized skills in:
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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
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Behavior intervention planning and implementation
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Data collection, analysis, and progress monitoring
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Supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and behavioral needs
He is known for his patience, professionalism, and ability to translate complex behavioral strategies into practical, compassionate support for families and caregivers. His work consistently promotes independence, skill development, and improved quality of life for the individuals he serves.
Academic Foundation in Economics
Karamo holds a Master’s degree in Economics, providing him with a strong analytical foundation that enhances his work in the human services and healthcare sectors. His academic training strengthens his ability to:
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Understand systemic and structural barriers affecting marginalized communities
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Analyze social and economic trends that influence community well‑being
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Advocate for policy improvements and equitable resource distribution
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Contribute to strategic planning and program development within community organizations
This unique blend of economics, healthcare, and human services allows Karamo to approach community issues with both empathy and strategic insight.
Community Advocacy Leadership
Karamo is deeply involved in community advocacy groups, where he is recognized for his leadership, integrity, and collaborative spirit. His advocacy work includes:
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Championing equitable access to mental health, disability, and social services
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Supporting immigrant, refugee, and newcomer communities
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Facilitating community dialogues, workshops, and outreach initiatives
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Mentoring youth and emerging community leaders
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Promoting diversity, inclusion, and social justice
He is known for bringing people together, amplifying community voices, and ensuring that vulnerable populations are represented in decision‑making spaces.
Professionalism and Work Ethic
Across all roles, Karamo is consistently described as:
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Reliable and ethical
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Compassionate and culturally aware
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Organized and detail‑oriented
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A strong communicator and problem‑solver
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A natural advocate with a calm, steady presence
His professionalism is rooted in respect, accountability, and a genuine desire to uplift others. Karamo’s long‑standing dedication to community well‑being continues to make a meaningful impact across Alberta.
President's Message
President & CEO, Empower Bridge Alberta Society
Empower Bridge Alberta Society was founded on a simple but powerful belief: when people are given the tools, support, and opportunities they deserve, they can transform not only their own lives but the communities around them. This belief guides every decision we make and every initiative we pursue. It reminds us that real change begins with dignity, compassion, and the unwavering conviction that every person has potential worth investing in.
Every day, our work is shaped by the realities we witness in our communities—newcomers striving to build a new life, youth searching for direction and belonging, families navigating complex systems, and individuals who simply need someone to believe in them. We exist to bridge the gaps that too often leave people behind. We remove barriers, open doors, and create pathways that allow individuals and families to thrive with confidence and independence.
Our mission is rooted in empowerment, collaboration, and community leadership. We do not work for communities—we work with them. We listen to their voices, honor their experiences, and build programs that reflect their strengths, aspirations, and cultural identities. Whether through mentorship, education, advocacy, or community development, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities that lead to long‑term success.
As President & CEO, I am deeply committed to fostering meaningful partnerships and amplifying the voices of those who are too often unheard. I believe that sustainable change requires collective effort—government, organizations, businesses, and community members working together with shared purpose. When we unite around a vision of equity, inclusion, and opportunity, we create a stronger Alberta for all.
The journey ahead is significant, but it is also filled with possibility. With the dedication of our volunteers, the passion of our team, and the support of our partners and community members, we are building bridges that lead to opportunity, belonging, and lasting transformation.
Thank you for walking this path with us. Your support fuels our mission and strengthens our resolve. Together, we are not just imagining a better future—we are creating it.
Land Acknowledgement
Empower Bridge Alberta Society acknowledges that we live, work, and provide services on the traditional and ancestral territories of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples of Alberta. We are deeply grateful to the Indigenous peoples of each region for welcoming us onto their lands and allowing us to build our homes, support our communities, and carry out our mission in these beautiful territories.
With respect and humility, we commit ourselves to ongoing truth and reconciliation through education, awareness, relationship‑building, and meaningful action. We recognize the enduring presence, knowledge, and contributions of Indigenous peoples and honor their stewardship of these lands since time immemorial.
Calgary
We acknowledge that Calgary is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), including the Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai Nations, as well as the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney). These lands are part of Treaty 7, signed on September 22, 1877, at the present‑day Siksika Nation. Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.
Edmonton
We acknowledge that Edmonton is located on the traditional territories of the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, Blackfoot, and Dene peoples, within the lands of Treaty 6, signed at Fort Carlton on August 23, 1876. This region is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 1.
Grande Prairie
We acknowledge that Grande Prairie lies within the traditional territories of the Beaver, Cree, and Dene Nations, encompassed by Treaty 8, signed on June 21, 1899. This region is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 6.
Lethbridge
We acknowledge that Lethbridge is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), including the Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai Nations, as well as the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations. These lands are part of Treaty 7, signed at the present‑day Siksika Nation reserve on September 22, 1877. Lethbridge is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.
Become a Member of EmpowerBridge's Board of Directors
EmpowerBridge is inviting committed and passionate individuals to join our Board of Directors. As a not-for-profit organization, we provide compassionate and person-centered support to individuals living with disabilities and complex needs. Our work also includes harm reduction and recovery support, non-clinical barrier support services, and programs that assist immigrants and newcomers.
We welcome individuals who bring lived experience, professional knowledge, and a strong commitment to making a positive difference in the community. We are especially interested in candidates with backgrounds in areas such as human resources, community engagement, health care, social services, information technology, finance, management, health and safety.
Board members are collaborative and forward-thinking leaders who help guide the strategic direction of the organization. They actively support EmpowerBridge’s mission through meaningful participation in Board meetings and committee work.
If you are interested in serving on EmpowerBridge’s Board of Directors, please submit your expression of interest along with your resume to board@empowerbrg.com
Meet The Board
The Board of Directors brings together experienced professionals who guide EmpowerBridge with strong leadership, vision, and accountability. Their collective insight and commitment help ensure the organization remains responsive, impactful, and focused on supporting the needs of the communities it serves.
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Alliance Smith- Board Chair
Alliance Smith is a clinical social work professional with a Master's degree in social work, specializing in mental health and client-centered care. She brings strong expertise in supporting individuals and families through complex challenges using a compassionate and trauma-informed approach. As Board Chair, she is committed to strong leadership, good governance, and advancing the organization's mission.
Ashley Jones - Vice Chair
Ashley Jones is a dedicated and results-driven professional with a strong commitment to community development, leadership, and social impact. As vice chair, she plays a key role in supporting the Board Chair and providing strategic oversight to ensure the organization remains aligned with its mission, vision, and objectives. Ashley holds a Bachelor's degree in social work, which has equipped her with a solid foundation.
Samuel David- Board Member
Samuel Iheanyi David is a healthcare professional and public health leader with extensive experience in clinical practice, community health programming, and organizational coordination. He holds an MBBS degree from Abia State University, Nigeria, where he completed comprehensive training in clinical sciences and patient care. Samuel has built a career at the intersection of medicine, public health, and operational leadership.
Hawa Mariam - Secretary
Hawa Mariam is a passionate advocate for justice, equity, and human rights, with a strong academic foundation in Law and Social Justice. She holds a Master of Laws (LLM), which has equipped her with advanced knowledge in legal systems, social policy, and the protection of marginalized and vulnerable populations. Hawa's work is driven by a deep commitment to promoting fairness, dignity, and inclusion within communities.
Nicole Dresser - Treasurer
Nicole Dresser is a detail-oriented and highly organized professional with a strong background in financial management and accountability. As Treasurer, she is responsible for overseeing the organization’s financial operations, ensuring transparency, compliance, and the effective stewardship of resources in support of its mission. Nicole has over 10 years of accounting experience, with skills in financial reporting, and budgeting.
Nje Fur - Advisory Board Member
Nje Fru is a dynamic and strategic professional dedicated to building meaningful partnerships that drive community impact and organizational growth. As Partnerships Director, he plays a pivotal role in developing and sustaining relationships with stakeholders, including community organizations, government agencies, and private sector partners, to advance the organization’s mission.
The EmpowerBridge Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and governance, ensuring the organization remains aligned with its mission of delivering inclusive, high-quality support services. The Board is composed of dedicated professionals from diverse backgrounds, including social services, healthcare, law, business, and community development, bringing a wealth of knowledge and perspective to guide the organization’s growth and impact.
The Board is responsible for setting the overall direction of EmpowerBridge, establishing policies, and overseeing organizational performance. They work closely with senior leadership to ensure accountability, financial sustainability, and compliance with regulatory standards. Through thoughtful planning and decision-making, the Board helps shape programs that are responsive to community needs and grounded in best practices.
Members of the Board are deeply committed to the values of empowerment, inclusion, and dignity. They serve as ambassadors for the organization, building partnerships, supporting fundraising efforts, and strengthening community relationships. Their leadership ensures that EmpowerBridge continues to expand its reach while maintaining a strong focus on person-centered care.
With a shared vision for creating meaningful change, the EmpowerBridge Board of Directors plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission—supporting individuals and families to live more independent, connected, and fulfilling lives.