Nana Kubi has made a significant and measurable impact in the field of social services, community development, and public sector leadership through a career defined by innovation, equity-driven practice, and transformative community outcomes. Her work has consistently helped shape and improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and families across Toronto, particularly those impacted by systemic inequities, poverty, and violence.
As the child of immigrant parents from Ghana, raised in Toronto Community Housing, there were times that post-secondary education did not feel attainable. For Nana, Centennial College became the entry point that made this dream possible. It gave her an opportunity she never thought she would have, the chance to pursue higher education, build a career, and redefine what was possible for herself and her family.
Nana thrived as she journeyed through the Child and Youth Worker program’s critical hands-on learning, practical skill development, and early exposure to the field through placement opportunities. This educational foundation directly contributed to Nana’s ability to advance professionally and academically. After completing her diploma, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, becoming the first in her family to graduate from university. She is now completing her Master of Arts.
Throughout her career with the City of Toronto, Nana has led and contributed to high-impact initiatives that have strengthened community safety, increased access to critical services, and improved overall wellbeing. As a Community Development Officer, she co-created and successfully implemented the Family Wellbeing Pilot Program, a city-wide initiative focused on supporting families disproportionately affected by youth violence. This work enhanced system navigation, increased access to resources, and built community capacity through the training and mentorship of over 900 community ambassadors. Her leadership in this space directly contributed to safer, more resilient communities and improved outcomes for equity-deserving populations.
Her commitment to youth development and violence prevention is further demonstrated through programs such as the Girl Code cohort, which she designed and led. This initiative provided a safe, empowering space for young women facing systemic barriers, with outcomes showing that 100% of participants felt their needs were met and the vast majority reported improved self-confidence and wellbeing.
In her current role as Operations Supervisor within Human Services Integration, Nana continues to make a significant organizational impact by leading staff in a high-volume, complex service environment. She drives operational excellence by improving service delivery models, strengthening policy and procedural frameworks, and ensuring high standards of client-centered service. Her leadership fosters a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and innovation, directly enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of essential social service programs such as Fair Pass, Ontario Works, childcare subsidies, and housing supports.
Volunteerism and Community involvement
Nana has consistently dedicated her time to supporting vulnerable populations through direct service in communities across the GTA. Her volunteer work in homeless shelters and youth residential homes has provided critical support to individuals experiencing instability, offering resources alongside compassion and mentorship.
Nana is deeply committed to career mentorship and community capacity building. Nana has supported youth and individuals facing employment barriers through resume development, interview preparation, career coaching, helping them build confidence, access opportunities, professional development, and move toward economic stability. Nana demonstrates leadership in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion by organizing initiatives that promote intercultural understanding and create safe spaces for dialogue on anti-Black racism and anti-oppression. This work has contributed to increased awareness and more inclusive environments for both staff and the communities served.
As a Host City Ambassador for FIFA events, she will be contributing to fostering inclusive, welcoming environments for global visitors, showcasing community pride and cultural connection. Her commitment to community engagement is further demonstrated through her active involvement in city-wide initiatives such as Newcomer Day. In this role, she has supported newcomers by helping them navigate services, access resources, and build a sense of belonging.
Her role as a former United Way Ambassador further highlights her ability to mobilize others for community impact. By leading fundraising campaigns, engaging staff, and exceeding campaign goals, she helped generate critical resources to support vulnerable populations across the city.
Through her involvement in various committees and advisory groups such as the SDFA Employee Excellence Committee, Nana has also contributed to strengthening organizational culture, recognizing excellence, and promoting collaboration, ultimately enhancing the quality of services delivered.
Across all her contributions, Nana’s work is grounded in a deep understanding of community needs, informed by both her professional expertise and experience. She consistently creates opportunities for connection, growth, and empowerment, whether through direct service, mentorship, or advocacy. Her impact is both systemic and personal; she not only contributes to broader social change but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families. Nana Kubi’s dedication to community service reflects a lifelong commitment to building stronger, more equitable, and more resilient communities
Awards and Recognition
- Recognition Human Service Integration & Toronto Children’s Services – Outstanding Partnership Development, 2025
- Social Development, Finance & Administration (SDFA) – Excellence in Customer Service- Team 6, 2025
- Deputy Mayor’s Appreciation Award – 10th Annual Newcomer Day Leadership, 2024
- City of Toronto, (SDFA), Community Resource Section – Family Wellbeing Outstanding Collaboration, 2024
- Abiona Centre for Infant and Early Mental Health – 10+ Years of Dedication and Service, 2024
- City Manager's Awards of Excellence – Customer Experience -Honourable Mention CVET Team, 2023
- TESS (Toronto Employment & Social Services) – Excellence in Customer Service, 2021, 2020 ,2019
- TESS – Investing in Families- Community Program Award (Girl Code Cohort), 2018
- TESS – Family Team Member Award, 2018
- TESS – Innovation Award, 2018,2017
- City of Toronto – Divisional Award, Investing in Families Initiative, 2017
- TESS – Youth Team Member Award, 2016