Wood Buffalo Pride Names Mitchell Bowers as New Executive Director

FORT MCMURRAY, AB. — Wood Buffalo Pride, formerly known as Pride YMM, has appointed longtime board chair Mitchell Bowers as its new executive director.

Bowers, who has previously served as the organization’s interim executive director, replaces Hanna Fridhed who vacated the role late last year. Bowers brings extensive experience in industry, non-profits, and work with First Nations. The organization says Bowers’ dedication to advocating for the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Reconciliation, and equity for marginalized identities is a major asset to the work of Wood Buffalo Pride.

“My goal is to create a Wood Buffalo region where all people feel safe, respected, and valued,” Bowers said in a statement.

The leadership transition coincides with the organization’s official rebranding from Pride YMM to Wood Buffalo Pride, a move aimed at better reflecting its mission to serve the entire region.

“Wood Buffalo Pride is growing and changing, and that includes our top leadership levels,” said incoming board chair Kathy Vladicka. “Mitch will bring their wealth of experience working not only with the Pride board but also with organizations such as Arts Council Wood Buffalo and the Regional Advisory Committee on Inclusion, Diversity and Equity.”

Wood Buffalo Pride is a non-profit organization committed to raising awareness and promoting the inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the region. The group coordinates affirming events, support programs, advocacy efforts, and training initiatives to foster belonging and create safer communities.