Eva Verity Wins 2025 Mamdani Arts Leadership Award for Transforming Calgary’s Arts Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2025

Calgary, AB – The best leaders don’t just support creativity—they build the structures that allow it to thrive.

Last night at the Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts, Eva Verity, Chair of the Board at Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre, was recognized with the 2025 Mamdani Arts Leadership Award for her bold leadership in arts sustainability and advocacy for artists’ rights.

At a time when many arts organizations struggle to balance financial realities with artistic integrity, Verity has pushed for a new model—one that prioritizes fair pay, ethical working conditions, and long-term resilience. Under her leadership, Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre has evolved into a forward-thinking organization that supports artists as professionals, not just passionate contributors.

Verity’s influence goes beyond board meetings and budgets—she has fundamentally reshaped how the organization operates. Through her efforts, Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre has strengthened its governance, financial sustainability, and community engagement, ensuring that artists can focus on their craft without facing financial precarity. She has championed fair wages for arts workers, strengthened partnerships, and positioned the organization as a model for ethical, sustainable arts leadership.

Her leadership has also been instrumental in building cross-sector collaborations, deepening Swallow-a-Bicycle’s engagement with diverse communities, and fostering innovative partnerships that amplify underrepresented voices in the arts. Her ability to navigate challenges with both pragmatism and vision has ensured that Swallow-a-Bicycle remains a vital and influential part of Calgary’s cultural ecosystem.

"Eva has redefined what it means to lead in the arts sector," said Riaz Mamdani, CEO of Strategic Group and founder of the award. "She has not only strengthened Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre but has set a new precedent for how arts organizations can thrive while staying true to their values. Her leadership is proof that sustainability and ambition can go hand in hand."

With over 20 years of experience in arts administration, public engagement, and creative production, Verity has worked on a local, national, and international scale to create meaningful change in the arts. Beyond Swallow-a-Bicycle, she is a respected consultant, strategist, and advocate for arts organizations looking to build stronger, more equitable futures.

Her work ensures that artists don’t just survive in their field—they thrive.

 Winners at the Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts. Eva Verity pictured second from the right.

About the Mamdani Arts Leadership Award

The Mamdani Arts Leadership Award is part of the Cultural Leaders Legacy Awards, which celebrate individuals who are shaping the future of Calgary’s arts community. Established by Riaz Mamdani and Strategic Group, the award recognizes leaders who combine business acumen, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to sustaining the arts sector for generations to come.

Media Contact

Amber Phalen

Manager of Corporate Communications, Strategic Group

E: aphalen@strategicgroup.ca | P: 587.324.0288