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About Us

Overview

From conflict to understanding, one skill at a time.

PMAST (Peer Mediation And Skills Training) is a Calgary-based charity committed to providing youth, families, and communities with the tools to manage conflict peacefully. Our mission is to foster healthier relationships and safer environments in schools, homes, workplaces, and recreational spaces. Through specialized programs, we equip individuals with essential conflict management skills to address challenges where they live, learn, work, and play. Join us in creating lasting change and building stronger, more connected communities.

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History

Established in 1999, PMAST began its mission at a high-needs high school struggling with conflict, violence, poor attendance, dropouts, and low graduation rates. The goal was to teach youth peaceful conflict management and create peer mediation teams to support one another. This initiative transformed the school’s culture into one of safety, respect, and collaboration.

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Over the years, PMAST has expanded its programs to other schools and communities, maintaining a focus on proactive conflict management and anti-bullying solutions. The organization continues to prioritize teaching youth how to manage conflict, bullying, and violence, fostering emotional and mental well-being.

Mission & Values

PMAST’s mission is to equip youth, families, and communities with the skills to manage conflict peacefully in all areas of life. Through programs like Basic Conflict Management Training, Youth Empowerment Skills (YES), Connected Families, Youth Legacy, and the PEER Program, we foster conflict management, emotional wellness, leadership, and resiliency.

Core Values

Empower

Empowerment: PMAST equips individuals to manage conflicts confidently, fostering self-reliance and resilience.

Respect

Respect: PMAST fosters mutual respect, valuing every individual's dignity and worth, embracing all backgrounds.

Integrity

Integrity: PMAST upholds honesty, ethics, transparency, and excellence in all programs and relationships.

Collaboration

Collaboration: PMAST values teamwork, recognizing collective efforts strengthen conflict management and build communities.

Community

Community Engagement: PMAST actively involves communities in its programs, promoting shared responsibility to create peaceful, supportive environments for all

Team

Brenda Christie
Brenda Christie
President
Brenda, a founding member and President of PMAST for 25 years, developed an interest in mediation during her career as a Petroleum Engineering Tech with the Energy Resources Conservation Board. Experiencing conflict in a male-dominated industry and as a single mom of two teens, she sought to upgrade her conflict management skills. After completing U of C’s Mediation/Negotiation Program and volunteering with Community Mediation Calgary Society, Brenda co-founded PMAST with Youth Probation Officer Winston Blake in 1999 to address issues of bullying, conflict, and violence, fully incorporating in 2003.
Bob Lang
Bob Lang
Founding Member
Bob Lang, a founding member of PMAST and its Treasurer for 25 years, retired as an Engineer in Calgary's oil industry to dedicate himself to volunteering and improving his community. He has served on boards for the Cliff Bungalow-Mission Community Association, Community Mediation Calgary Society, and others, founding initiatives like the 4th Street Lilac Festival. Recognized for his contributions, Bob has received numerous honors, including the Canada 125 Award, Alberta Centennial Medal, and Calgary’s Community Achievement Award, reflecting his lifelong commitment to making Calgary a better place.
Tim Lipp
Tim Lipp
Vice President
Tim Lipp, a lifelong innovator, wrote his first virus at 14 and has since focused on systemic social change using the principles of ethical hacking. His career spans roles as a CTO for farmers, publishing language research in Nepal, and co-authoring AI governance frameworks with Indigenous leaders. A recognized leader in social impact, Tim operated the Centre for Social Impact Technology, uniting global experts on AI governance. Known for his authentic style, Tim is a sought-after board member and strategic advisor, contributing to digital governance, conflict management, and the intersection of technology and society.
Laaraib Sohail
Laaraib Sohail
Board of Directors - Secretary
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Dr. Rose (Nasrin) Asgharzadeh
Board of Directors
Dr. Rose (Nasrin) Asgharzadeh, Assistant Professor of Human Resources at Mount Royal University's Bissett School of Business, has over 14 years of experience in education and research specializing in HR and Change Management. She holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education-Development Planning and has served as Program Chair and Strategic Board Member for the UNESCO Chair in Management, Planning, and Education. A published author and speaker, Dr. Asgharzadeh has made significant contributions to academic research, policy development, and international conferences.
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Florence (Flo) Lye
Program Director
Flo’s ADR practices include extensive experiences in resolving inter-personal conflicts and family disputes, especially with ethnic and cultural diversity components; coaching and role-plays in assessments. She was part of the set-up team for Alberta Justice Mediation Program (Civil) in Calgary and their roster member since 1998. She had also worked with Family Dispute Resolution Services for over 3 years. She is a member of International Mediation Institute (IMI), and a Life coach. She works tirelessly to promote conflict management skills to youth. She has her own humor and comedy company which promotes resiliency, courage and confidence to aspiring comics, speakers, and trainers alike.
Sania Dsilva
Sania D'Silva
Board of Directors

Sania, born in Mumbai, India, has called Canada home for the past nine years and brings 17 years of experience in marketing communication design and strategy. She currently works at Immigrant Services Calgary as a creative design lead, driving impact in the non-profit sector through technology and innovative marketing. Passionate about social inclusion, Sania leverages visual design to address bullying and discrimination, fostering stronger communities. She lives in Calgary with her chef husband and two children, maintaining aquariums, house plants, and her creative spirit.

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Sumit Guha-1
Sumit Guha
Board of Directors

Sumit Guha, originally from India, has called Calgary home for several years. With over 15 years of experience as a technology advisor, he partners with organizations to streamline complex systems and champion innovative strategies. His expertise lies in aligning technical solutions with organizational objectives, empowering teams to navigate modern challenges with agility and foresight.

Sumit thrives on curiosity and adaptability, values he applies equally in professional environments and community spaces.

He finds joy in the boundless energy of his 4.5-year-old daughter, who inspires him to approach life with fresh perspective. Outside of work, Sumit unwinds by experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen—a creative outlet that balances his analytical career—and exploring Calgary’s vibrant neighbourhoods with his family.

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Careers & Volunteer

Volunteer Fundraiser
Volunteer
About PMAST: Peer Mediation And Skills Training (PMAST) is a not-for-profit organization focused on equipping youth, families, and communities with the necessary skills to effectively manage conflict in various environments—at home, in school, at work, and in recreational settings. Role Overview: We are seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to lead our Fundraising Team. As a Volunteer Fundraiser/Team Leader, you will work remotely (virtually) and for the most part can manage your hours around your schedule. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to gain experience, build networks, and enhance professional skills while contributing to a meaningful cause. A one-year commitment is requested. Key Responsibilities: • Lead and coordinate fundraising activities and events to raise funds and awareness for PMAST. • Identify new opportunities for fundraising and awareness campaigns. • Prepare and submit applications for funding. • Publicize events and initiatives to increase visibility and engagement. • Assist with processing and tracking donations in our donor database. • Thank and acknowledge donors and supporters. • Represent PMAST by giving talks and presentations to prospective donors and at community groups and schools. Volunteer Fundraiser Requirements: • Proven experience in fundraising and leadership roles. • Familiarity with fundraising databases. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. • Strong organizational and team-building abilities. How to Apply: If you're interested in becoming a part of PMAST’s Fundraising Team, please send your resume along with a brief statement explaining why you are interested in this volunteer position to: Brenda Christie Email: Brenda@pmast.org For more details about PMAST, visit https://pmast.org. Join us in making a positive impact in communities by supporting conflict resolution and skills development.