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Nour Mazloum

Executive Director

Nour Mazloum stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) in June 2024, where she leads strategic initiatives focused on downtown revitalization, business growth, and vibrant place-based programming. She oversees signature downtown events, community activations, and business engagement initiatives that strengthen economic vitality and foster a welcoming, inclusive urban core.

Nour brings extensive governance and sector leadership experience. She currently serves as Treasurer of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) and as a Director on the Board of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO), where she also chaired its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

Her leadership has been recognized provincially. She is the recipient of EDCO’s 2021 President’s Award and the 2022 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Influencer of the Year Award, and was recently honoured as Ontario’s Champion of Diversity.

Nour holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy and Political Studies from Queen’s University and recently completed her MBA at the Royal Military College of Canada.

Amanda Bedford

Marketing and Communications Manager

Amanda is a passionate visual storyteller and marketing specialist who has been working with the DBIA since 2021 on a number of projects and events, and since has led many innovative campaigns and events that showcase the vibrancy and diversity of our local community. With a focus on both digital and in-person engagement, and driven by community impact, she is committed to supporting the DBIA's mission and increasing downtown Peterborough's visibility, contributing to a more connected and resilient downtown.

With a degree in Advertising from Humber College and Graphic Design & Visual Communications from Fleming College, Amanda brings a versatile set of skills. She previously ran her own practice, empowering local businesses and nonprofits through tailored visuals and uplifting digital narratives. Amanda is an active participant on multiple committees focused on downtown events and culture - such as First Friday Peterborough.

Connor English

Programs Manager

Connor is a lifelong Peterborough resident deeply committed to the city’s continued growth and revitalization. Growing up in Peterborough, Connor developed a strong connection to the community and a passion for supporting local businesses, having experienced firsthand the unique charm of the downtown core.

Before joining the DBIA, Connor was a small business owner where he gained valuable insights into the needs and aspirations of local entrepreneurs. This background has made him a dedicated advocate for small business success, bringing a personal understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing downtown business owners. His experience on both sides of the table fuels their drive to ensure that the downtown remains an inclusive, thriving hub of commerce and culture.

Ellie Girard

Administrative and Events Assistant

Ellie brings a fresh perspective and enthusiastic energy to the role of Events and Administrative Assistant. With a strong passion for organization, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, she helps support the successful execution of DBIA-led events and day-to-day operations. Eager to learn and contribute, Ellie approaches each project with a positive attitude and a keen eye for detail. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing competitively and is always ready to embrace new challenges.

Cassia Piper

Operations Assistant

Cassia is a community-minded professional with a background in housing, community services, and local business. She brings a practical, people-first approach to her work and a knack for problem-solving, organizing, and making things run a little smoother. She also brings a strong understanding of the BIA world, having previously served as Chair of the Village Business Improvement Area (VBIA).

She’s passionate about the people and connections that make a community feel like a community and believes a thriving downtown is about more than economic growth. It’s about creating a welcoming, connected place where people come together and local businesses have the opportunity to succeed.

When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find Cassia taking photos around Peterborough, exploring with her son, or diving into her latest creative project.