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Colleen James
Regional Councillor, Leader, and Changemaker
Areas of Expertise
Overcoming The (In)convenient Leader • Leadership Beyond Titles • Building Stronger Connections Between Community and Government • Equity in Action • Lessons from Politics, Business, & Advocacy • Women in Leadership and the Power of Representation
Colleen James is a Regional Councillor and the founder of Democracy in Action, a community initiative dedicated to strengthening civic participation and amplifying community voices in Waterloo Region. With over 15 years of municipal government experience, she works to break down barriers to engagement and ensure all residents feel included in shaping their community.
She is also the founder of Divonify Incorporated, where she partners with organizations locally and globally to advance equity, inclusion, and systemic change. Recognized for her leadership, Colleen received the 2024 Public Service Excellence Award from Women of Dignity International and was named a Woman of Influence in local government by Municipal World.
Born and raised in Kitchener, Colleen is an active community member, serving on the advisory board of the ForUsGirls Foundation and as a member of Kitchener Rotary. She lives in Kitchener with her husband and daughter.
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Signature Topics
❋ The (In)convenient Leader: Thriving in the Face of AdversityHow to lead with resilience, challenge systems, and create meaningful change—even when it’s uncomfortable.
❋ Equity in Action: Moving Beyond Words to Meaningful ChangeA candid discussion on embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion into policies, workplaces, and leadership decisions.
❋ Bridging the Gap: Building Stronger Connections Between Community and GovernmentPractical strategies for fostering trust, engagement, and collaboration between municipal leaders and the people they serve.
❋ Lessons from Politics, Business, and Advocacy: The Power of ReinventionHow setbacks, transitions, and new opportunities can redefine success and open unexpected doors.
❋ Leadership Beyond Titles: How to Make an Impact in Any RoleWhy leadership isn’t about position but about action, influence, and driving change from wherever you stand.
❋ Breaking Barriers: Women in Leadership and the Power of RepresentationNavigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and paving the way for the next generation of women leaders.