New REACH Board member Yussuf Takal brings with him a wealth of experience moving in communities and bureaucracies.

Takal worked as an advisor with the Federal Government in Business Planning and Strategy, and now works in the same department in the Business Expertise Branch.

“I’ve volunteered with different organizations as well and have over 10 years experience working with different community organizations,” he says.

With volunteer experience ranging from community organizing to youth sports, Takal was attracted to REACH by its focus on partnerships and collaboration.

“I read the REACH Recommendations and they are very useful and I’d like to support the organization in implementing these recommendations,” he says. “I like the partnerships with different organizations and communities.”

Takal says his experience in community and government gives him a specialized skill set. 

“As someone who has worked for the government during the pandemic supporting communities, and spent a great portion of my career in public service, I can support addressing organizational challenges in the heart of the community,” he says. “A lot of people cannot access resources, especially marginalized communities, so I want to help those people access resources and help them overcome systemic barriers and advocate for them by supporting the work REACH does in engaging those communities.”

Takal is excited to get started supporting the work of REACH.

“I like what reach does for the community, especially in Edmonton,” he says. “So I’m looking forward to learning about the depth and breadth of the organization and how they’re tackling some of the challenges and issues the city is facing.”