With a busy and impactful year of work rapidly advancing into the rearview mirror, it’s time for our annual board election where Oshawa Chamber members assess the list of impressive nominees vying for six positions on the Chamber’s 2026 Board of Directors. Most of the individuals on this list are likely already familiar to many of you, each recognized as a valuable community contributor and builder. We’re incredibly appreciative of their willingness to stand as candidates for our 2026 board.
The following biographies have been graciously provided by the nominees, and we encourage anyone with questions for them to reach out directly.
Our election for the 2026 board will once again be overseen and verified by Andrew Tully of Ritchie, Shortt & Tully, LLP. This year’s board election will be conducted entirely online, ensuring secure delivery and voting through the Survey Monkey platform. A quick reminder: the voting link will be sent via email exclusively to members in good standing, meaning those who are current on their Chamber membership dues. If you have any inquiries or concerns about your membership status, please don’t hesitate to contact Isabelle Foley.
Now, let’s introduce you to the nominees for the upcoming board. Each nominee brings a unique blend of skills, experience, and dedication to fostering Oshawa’s business growth and community development. Learn more about each nominee below, listed in alphabetical order.
Domenic Albis
Domenic is a lifelong co-operator of his family’s many well-known hospitality businesses around Oshawa and Whitby, including Oshawa Chamber member Avanti Trattoria.
In his own words, “We embody the term “family run.” Our entire family is involved with the day-to-day operations, combined with great staff and amazing managers. We run a professional organization. Our front-line staff are trained to effectively deal with
any customer service-related concerns on-the-spot. Our reputation with our customers and our community is of critical importance, and we do everything we can to ensure our customers get the best possible experience. Community involvement and giving back to the community is at the heart of what we do.” Domenic is seeking re-election and has been instrumental in the operation of the Convergence Music and Art Festival, the Oshawa Student Orientation Event, and has won the Oshawa Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year award.
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Luke Carson
Luke Carson is a Director, Corporate Finance at BMO with extensive experience in building strong client partnerships and delivering tailored financial solutions. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to client success, Luke has spent his career fostering growth and trust within the banking sector. Beyond his professional role, he is deeply engaged in the local business community, serving on the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for the past year. He has also contributed to the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee for two years and recently assumed the position of Chair, where he champions initiatives that strengthen business connections and economic development. Luke’s leadership and collaborative mindset make him a trusted advisor and advocate for business excellence.
Zehra Mahoon
Zehra, is a dedicated and proud mom of two. She is deeply involved in volunteering and is Co-Chair of TEDxOshawa. Zehra has worked in the financial industry in many capacities. She has been an i
nvestment banker, commercial banker, and investment advisor. She has also worked in brand and retail management with brands such as Nike, Levi Strauss, Estee Lauder, TGIF and others. In 2022, she retired from the corporate world and now dedicates her time towards helping other people achieve their ambitions as a personal advisor and business coach. What started as her personal passion to grow and achieve her full potential as a business owner, and corporate super star, since her retirement has turned into an obsession for helping others do the same.
Ted Peters
Ted Peters is a dynamic force in Durham Region’s business community, known for his innovative leadership at Alary Technologies. As an active member of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, Ted fosters collaboration between local businesses, City Hall, and regional stakeholders to drive economic growth and community impact. His creative thinking and outside-the-box approach have made him a trusted voice in both the tech and arts communities, where he supports initiatives that blend innovation with social good. Ted’s philanthropic work—supporting youth programs, tech access for families, and environmental efforts with the Toronto Zoo—reflects his belief in business as a catalyst for change. Whether mentoring entrepreneurs or leading tech-forward solutions, Ted’s vision continues to shape a more connected, creative, and resilient Oshawa.
Lindsay Temple
Lindsay Temple is the Founder and Chief Consultant of Temple Leadership Consulting Inc., a firm specializing in leadership development, human resources, strategic planning, and workplace culture. With 20 years’ experience in leadership, facilitation, and HR, Lindsay partners with organizations to build engaged teams, inclusive cultures, and effective people strategies. She holds an 
Executive MBA, a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation, and a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship. Lindsay brings a people-centred perspective to governance and decision-making. Her background as a Chief Experience Officer and board experience with Parkwood Estates and the Human Resources Professional Association reflect her commitment to good governance, community, and shared values. She brings a strategic and collaborative approach to advancing the Chamber’s mission and members’ success.
John Shaver
John Shaver is a creative leader with over 20 years of global design experience across 17 countries. Known for his innovative mindset and strategic approach, he combines creativity and
commercial insight to deliver impactful, award-winning design solutions for leading brands worldwide. As a senior manager, he’s built strong partnerships, fostered collaboration, and achieved measurable business results. Passionate about mentorship, John helps emerging professionals strengthen their creative confidence and leadership skills. Curious and results-driven, he approaches every challenge as an opportunity to innovate, inspire, and create meaningful, lasting value through design.
Vanessa Sosiak
With over 15 years of experience, Vanessa Sosiak specializes in helping established businesses realign their brand with the level they’ve already achieved. She guides business owners through strategic brand refreshes and revivals — modernizing their messaging, visuals, and positioning to reflect their growth and future ambitions. From brand identities to websites to full rollouts, she partners with driven entrepreneurs who value clarity, consistency, and results they can be proud of. Vanessa currently serves on the GOCC Board of Directors and Events Committee, as well as the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation’s Marketing Committee. She is passionate about using strategy and creativity to support local business growth and community impact
Melanie Warren
For 40 years, Melanie has been helping businesses market themselves through the power of print. What she enjoys most about her work is learning about a wide range of industries—their challenges, opportunities, and unique goals—and finding creative ways to help them succeed. Watching a company grow from concept to completion has become both her passion and the inspiration behind her company’s tagline.
Melanie believes strongly in building lasting relationships within the business community. For the past four years, she has proudly served on the Board of Directors for The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, where she continues to support local business growth and collaboration. She also gives back through community sponsorships and volunteer initiatives whenever possible.
When not managing Warren’s Printing Place, Melanie enjoys to golf, travel, and live life to the fullest.
