Join us on Wednesday April 16th as the AVA Webinar Series presents Innovation at the Back of the Bus with Andrea Silverstone and Carrie McManus from Sagesse.
Wednesday, April 16th, 2025
12 – 1:30pm MST
This webinar is about how, as our world changes, organizations must change with it. Without adaptation, they will struggle to fulfill their mandates or achieve the difference they aim for. The session will demonstrate why shifting to an innovation framework is the path to defending and adapting the civil society sector to meet today’s increasingly complex and growing needs.
About the Speakers
Andrea Silverstone is the CEO of Sagesse, an organization committed to disrupting systems of abuse. She has led the development of innovative programs and policies addressing domestic and sexual abuse, including in under-studied communities like women of affluence and the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. Her leadership has driven impactful initiatives, including a provincial collective impact project, a primary prevention framework, and advocacy for Clare’s Law in Alberta. Andrea has testified before parliamentary committees on coercive control and is recognized globally for her advocacy. Beginning her career at the Awo Taan Native Women’s Shelter in Calgary, she transitioned to CEO of Sagesse in 2001. Andrea is committed to ensuring vulnerable individuals can reach their full potential, believing in the obligation to leave the world better than she found it. A Registered Social Worker and Mediator, she holds a Master of Psychology in Coercive Control from the University of Salford and is pursuing a doctorate in Applied Psychology.
Carrie McManus is the Director of Innovation and Programs at Sagesse, where she breaks down barriers and drives change. Her passion for eradicating domestic abuse fuels her innovative approach to developing initiatives that challenge beliefs and empower communities. Under her leadership, Sagesse has expanded to address domestic abuse in rural and remote areas, sex work, and underserved communities. Carrie has also led initiatives supporting informal supporters — friends, family, and colleagues of those experiencing or using abuse. With over 20 years of experience, she previously worked at Mount Royal University’s Stepping Up program and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Dalhousie University and a Diploma of Social Work from Mount Royal University.