GenNEXT
Purpose-driven leaders shaping the future of their community
GenNEXT Calgary is a community of emerging changemakers in their 20s and 30s who lead, connect and give back locally. Through leadership development and meaningful community engagement, we empower young leaders to grow with purpose and contribute to lasting impact.
We believe that young, purpose-driven leaders have the power to shape the future of their communities. As such, we nurture the legacy of engaged, community-minded individuals who carry forward the values of unity and shared responsibility.
When young people struggle to find a “third space” beyond home and work, they lose access to genuine community and opportunities to grow as leaders. As a result, they feel isolated and disconnected from a sense of purpose. Currently, they turn to social circles that don’t reflect their values, leaving them unfulfilled and disengaged.
For young leaders seeking belonging and growth, GenNEXT offers community and pathways to grow as purpose-driven leaders. We connect peers and mentors who share the same values and want to make a difference, turning networking into real community.
Want to get involved?
Culbert Family Award for Philanthropy
The Culbert Family Award for Philanthropy recognizes emerging leaders in their 20s and 30s across Calgary and area who are creating positive change through community involvement and charitable giving. Annually, $2,000 is awarded to each of two selected recipients to support leadership growth and help bring their project or initiative to life. These changemakers are also celebrated at our annual Community Impact Awards. The next opportunity to apply will open in December 2026.
Nicolas Herrera & Bill (Yuan Jie) Zheng
(2025)
Claudia Belanger & Sheliza Kassam
(2024)
Jason Ribeiro & Jackson McDonough
(2023)
Gabriella Wong Ken & Alyssa Dewar (not pictured) (2022)
Alice Lam & Jordan Guildford
(not pictured) (2021)
Adam Le Dain & Brennan O’Yeung
(2019)
Run a fundraising campaign
Develop leadership skills, connect with colleagues and support your community by running a workplace campaign.
Join GenNEXT
Share a few details with us and you’ll be the first to know about GenNEXT opportunities!
To help our emails land in your inbox, add our email address to your contacts or safe sender list.
For questions or inquiries, email us at gennext@calgaryunitedway.org.
GenNEXT Cabinet
Co-Chairs
Kendra MacLean
Heritage Royalty
Marcus Rocque
ARC Financial
Committee Members
Claudia Belanger
Chubb Insurance
Dennis Cosmas
McDaniels & Associates
Rachel Hughes
ATB Financial
Matthew Keller
Karve Energy Inc
Lucia Lipon
Modular Green Technologies Inc.
Gracelyn Masangkay
BDP
Awurama Oteng
AON
Tashia Saleh
Raymond James Ltd
Jesse Tamayo
Surge
Samara Wittmann
Black Diamond Group
Cole Young
Community Member
Thank you to our sponsor
GenNEXT is proudly sponsored by ARC Financial Corp.