Meet the New Chelsea Society Leadership Team

Ahmed has been involved in the Affordable Housing Sector in BC for over 13 years. His career highlights include roles at BC Housing, the Aboriginal Housing Management Association and most recently, the Director of Community Real Estate and Asset Management at S.U.C.C.E.S.S. In 2024, Ahmed was appointed to the Real Estate Foundation of BC Board of Governors by the BC Non-Profit Housing Association. Ahmed’s educational journey includes an MBA in Finance and Real Estate, an MSc in International Business, and a BSc in Forest Engineering. He is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).Ahmed is a lucky husband of 16 years and the proud father of a boy (11) and a girl (7). His personal time is spent coaching his son's soccer team, spending time with family and friends, enjoying the outdoors and traveling.

Shawn Venne was appointed as CFO in May 2025, where he leads the organization’s financial and resident services strategy. With a unique blend of financial acumen and social work expertise, Shawn brings a holistic approach to managing resources that support New Chelsea’s Mission. Prior to his appointment as CFO in May 2025, Shawn served in multiple positions at New Chelsea Society including Controller and Director of Resident Services. Shawn holds professional designations as a CPA and CMA, and academic credentials in commerce and social work. He is deeply committed to community-building and equity, values that are reflected in both his strategic decisions and day-to-day operations.

Shehzan is responsible for providing high level administrative support to senior management, the board of directors, and all committees. She serves as the staff benefits administrator, looks after all the personnel records, produces newsletters and marketing materials and other administrative publications such as staff manuals and board governance manuals. She also manages the daily office operations and supervises the head office administrative staff and social media coordinator.

Darryl joined New Chelsea Society in February 2023 to be the General Manager at Chelsea Park. Prior to working with New Chelsea Society, he worked in various management roles with non-profits as well as FHA and VCHA. Darryl holds a BSc from SFU, an MBA from City University and a Counselling degree from the University of the Fraser Valley. He served on a number of boards of local non-profits such as the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society and the Alouette Home Start Society. Darryl’s 35-year career in the social service sector has helped develop his passion for helping others. He, along with his wife, are involved with Community Living of BC in the Home Sharing program. This program enables individuals to live, with Darryl and his wife, independently in a loving, caring home. Darryl’s other passion is rugby. He played for 38 years and refereed for 25 years. Don’t be surprised to see Darryl walking up and down the sidelines of a rugby game talking about how good he used to be.