Ariela Kong [she/her]

Rise on Boards | Cohort 9

Ariela Kong is a dedicated community development professional with extensive experience supporting vulnerable communities. As Community Development and Program Manager at Feed the Need in Durham, she leads operations at two of the region’s largest food banks, implementing innovative solutions to continuously improve service and expand capacity while upholding principles of dignity, equity, and accessibility.

With a unique blend of frontline experience and strategic leadership, Ariela bridges gaps between policy development and real-world application. Her work involves collaborating with over 60 community organizations across the Durham Region to create a cohesive network addressing food insecurity.

Ariela’s perspective is shaped by both her lived and work experiences in addition to her Bachelor of Science degree in Mental Health Studies from the University of Toronto. From supporting Indigenous youth facing addiction challenges in British Columbia to using data-driven strategies to improve delivery of social services in Ontario, she consistently prioritizes the voices of those traditionally excluded from decision-making spaces.

Currently serving on Oshawa’s Community, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Ariela is committed to driving systemic change and empowering communities. She works to foster inclusivity and create environments where every individual’s voice is heard and valued.