WTC Transformers of 2025/6
One of our annual general meeting traditions is to celebrate WTC Transformers. Last week, we took the time to recognize 4 transformers for the 2025/6 year who have made a significant impact on our organization over the years.
A WTC Transformer can be a volunteer, former board member, or donor who has helped shape WTC into what it is today: an organization that aims to radically shift social, economic, and political power to equity-deserving groups to reshape who cities are built by and for so that communities' needs are met and everyone can belong, participate, and thrive.
It is people who sustain momentum in movements. We recognize the people who have come before us because it is their contributions that allow us to do the work that we do today. We stand upon their shoulders, and we are deeply thankful to everyone who has crossed paths with our organization and generously given their time, energy, and skills to make WTC a better nonprofit.
Iona Bonamis
WTC Board Director 2022-2025
Iona was a board director for WTC for four years. Iona was a steady presence on the board and served as a co-chair throughout 2025. Iona’s expertise in city planning, transportation policy, volunteer management, campaigning and local government was critical to the growth of WTC during these years. Iona was always the first to put her hand up and attend events to represent the board, and donate her time and expertise to other WTC community members looking to establish planning careers. During challenging times in advocacy work, Iona always brought enthusiasm and hope, which inspired all of us.
Julia Smith
WTC Board Director 2022-2025
Julia served as a board director for WTC, member of the finance and risk committee and people committee during her four years on the board. Julia’s expertise in health policy and understanding how to engage with universities helped the organization develop new relationships. Julia’s contributions went above and beyond her governance responsibilities - she was always helping out at WTC tabling and events such as Car Free Day, and organizing a community walk and ice-cream social in summer 2025. She was a founding member and host of the WTC Intersectional Book Club, which is now a staple activity for WTC members.
Mita Naidu
WTC Board Director 2022-2026
Mita’s contributions as a board director were instrumental in advancing WTC’s mission to build more equitable cities by empowering communities historically excluded from civic processes and challenging harmful policies. Mita’s expertise in fundraising and communications broadened WTC’s outreach and encouraged meaningful conversations on inclusion and identity. Mita supported WTC through creating social media content, writing and pitching op-eds, and championing the inclusion of caste awareness within WTC’s anti-oppression work. Mita’s nomination as a YWCA Women of Distinction in 2025, speaks to her impressive community work and ongoing contributions to the sector.
Erin Arnold
WTC Member and Volunteer 2022-Present
Erin has been an active and generous member of the WTC community for many years. She volunteered her time to support WTC workshops and graciously hosted many of our book club sessions, helping create welcoming spaces for learning and connection. Erin has also been a strong and consistent voice in our Watch Council Program, regularly speaking up at city council meetings and advocating for more just and inclusive local decision-making. Deeply involved in her community, Erin brings care, commitment, and courage to everything she does, and is truly a force for good within the WTC community and beyond.
