We are pleased to welcome Dr. Lak Chinta as the new Chief Executive Officer

The Board of Directors welcomes Dr. Lak Chinta as Ongwanada’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Dr. Chinta succeeds Alastair Lamb, Ongwanada’s current CEO, and has started in his new role effective February 20, 2024.

After a comprehensive search process, the Board is pleased to have such a strong candidate to continue the leadership of Ongwanada.

Dr. Chinta brings over twenty years of broad-based leadership experience in both the healthcare and developmental services sectors. In addition, he has experience in social enterprise development, business strategy, innovation, marketing, fundraising, research and financial management. He has a background in autism and addiction and mental health services.

He comes to us from Lumenus Community Services in Toronto where he was Managing Director of Autism Services. He was also a Director at CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) in Toronto, and has experience on several Not-for-Profit Boards.

Dr. Chinta has an MBA from the Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto), a Ph.D, Physiology (Neuroscience) University of Toronto, an M.Sc. E Mechanical Engineering, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, and a B.E. Mechanical Engineering, University of Mysore, India.

The next several weeks will provide an opportunity to ensure a smooth transition into the CEO role and ensure Ongwanada continues forward with its mission and vision.

Please join the Board of Directors in congratulating Lak Chinta, offering him your support as he assumes this important role.

We would also like to wish Alastair Lamb best wishes as he transitions into retirement. Alastair, thank you for your dedication to Ongwanada, especially in your most recent role of CEO, navigating the challenges of Covid. Happy retirement Alastair!

J.David Ariss

Chair, Board of Directors