What is the DBIA?

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is a non-profit organization that champions the continuing commercial development of the Peterborough downtown. We partner with businesses and advocate on their behalf. We are a group of entrepreneurs and visionaries who live and work in the downtown core and represent the members of this community.

Our goals are bold and ambitious, and we get things done. We dedicate our time to understanding the complexities of local issues and we build strong partnerships for the mutual benefit of local enterprises and the Peterborough community. We are your passionate and informed voice for diverse social issues that impact our core.

Our Team

Nour Mazloum

Executive Director

Nour stepped into the role as the Executive Director of Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) in June, 2024. Prior to her role at Peterborough DBIA she led the development, writing and production of business collaterals, media strategies and public relations for Kingston Economic Development. She brings a wealth of experience, having also served as a Director at the Economic Developers Council of Ontario’s (EDCO) Board of Directors and as the Co-Chair of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Nour's contributions have been recognized with EDCO’s 2021 President Award and the 2022 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Influencer of the Year Award. She 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 currently working towards 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.

Tiffany Daskewich

Membership Engagement Coordinator

Tiffany brings a wealth of experience from working closely with business owners to her new role as the Member Engagement Coordinator for the Peterborough DBIA. With years of dedicated service and a deep passion for community involvement, Tiffany is eager to bring her expertise into enhancing the vibrant heart of Downtown Peterborough. A lover of downtown’s dynamic atmosphere and its incredible dining spots, Tiffany’s connection to the community extends beyond her professional life. Her extensive volunteer work has allowed her to engage with local initiatives and foster strong community ties. Now, she’s excited to bring her energy and enthusiasm into supporting and revitalizing downtown Peterborough. Tiffany looks forward to collaborating with local businesses and visitors to make downtown a thriving hub of activity and connection.

Connor English

Operations Coordinator

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.

Board of Directors

Michael Cherney

Cherney Properties

Sacha Lai-Svirk

DBIA Chair

Brad Collyer

Treasurer

Neil Hannam

HR Chair & DAC Co-Chair

Shelby Leanard-Watt

Board Member

Shannon Mak

Board Member

Matt Couture

Board Member

Deanna Guttman

Board Member

Paul Hurley

Alexandra Pyle

Board Member

Madeleine Hurrell

Marketing Committee Vice Chair

Joe Rees

Engagement Committee Chair

Nigel Lister

DBIA Vice Chair and Marketing Committee Chair

Tiffany Arcari

Engagement Committee Vice Chair

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