A New Era for DesignTO: Welcoming Executive Director Anna Bartula
As DesignTO enters its 16th year, we are pleased to announce that Anna Bartula has joined DesignTO as its Executive Director.
Anna is no stranger to building vibrant, creative communities in Toronto. With over 25 years of experience across the non-profit, public, and creative sectors, she has led national marketing campaigns, championed public art and placemaking initiatives, and built strong partnerships that bring arts and culture to life. Her work bridges grassroots engagement with big-picture city-building strategies. This includes leadership roles with the Parkdale Village BIA, Toronto Polish Film Festival, and Critical Distance Centre for Curators, as well as consulting with non-profits and arts organizations, making her a great fit to lead DesignTO into its next chapter.
“We are thrilled to welcome Anna as DesignTO’s next Executive Director. Over the past 25 years Anna has been an impactful leader at various community levels across Toronto. Her passion for arts and culture, paired with her impressive track record in relationship building, leadership and fundraising, make her an ideal person to help lead our organization into its next chapter. Anna brings fresh perspective and energy, and we’re excited for what’s ahead as she joins our talented team. On behalf of the Board, we’re so excited for the future of DesignTO with Anna and Deborah at the helm.”
– Zviko Mhakayakora, Chair, DesignTO Board of Directors
Anna shares DesignTO’s passion for design as an avenue for connection, collaboration, and change. “I’m thrilled to step into this role at such an inspiring time for DesignTO. Arts and culture need champions now more than ever, and I’m excited to work alongside this talented team to deepen our impact and create meaningful opportunities for creativity, connection and community,” she says.
Together with co-founder and Artistic Director Deborah Wang, alongside Head of Marketing Michael Madjus, Head of Programming Robyn Wilcox, the exceptional team, and Board of Directors, Anna will lead DesignTO as we continue to champion design’s role in creating a sustainable, just, and joyful world.
This is more than a leadership transition, it marks the start of an exciting new chapter. With Anna’s energy and vision, and your continued support, DesignTO is ready to expand its impact and continue shaping a better future through design.
