Navigating Crisis: Plan International Canada Strengthens Leadership Amidst Growing Threats to Girls' Rights

NEW YORK, NY – November 20, 2025

A Shift in Leadership for a Changing World

Plan International Canada has announced the appointment of David Diamond and Christine Healy to its Board of Directors, signaling a commitment to robust governance and strategic leadership at a time when girls’ rights are increasingly under threat globally. The organization, which reached 7 million people in 2024 through its impactful programs, aims to strengthen its ability to navigate a complex landscape marked by conflict, climate change, and rising inequalities. The appointments follow the completion of terms for outgoing board members David Court and Colleen McMorrow.

Addressing Escalating Global Challenges

The timing of these appointments is particularly poignant, as girls worldwide face a multitude of interconnected challenges. Reports from organizations like Save the Children and the World Bank paint a concerning picture of escalating risks, including increased rates of child marriage, limited access to education, and heightened vulnerability to violence. “The convergence of crises – from climate change to geopolitical instability – is disproportionately impacting girls, undoing decades of progress,” notes one source familiar with the organization’s strategic planning. Fragile states, in particular, are experiencing a surge in child marriage rates, with two girls marrying every minute in highly fragile contexts. The World Economic Forum's latest Global Gender Gap Report indicates that at the current rate, it will take 169 years to achieve full political parity, underscoring the urgent need for focused intervention.

Expertise from Diverse Backgrounds

David Diamond, an entrepreneur and creative leader, brings a wealth of experience in innovation and storytelling. His background is expected to strengthen the organization's ability to connect with supporters and amplify the voices of girls. Christine Healy, an international energy transition executive, offers a strategic perspective on sustainable development and inclusive growth. “Her experience in navigating complex global challenges will be invaluable as we expand our reach and deepen our impact,” shares a member of the organization's leadership team. Healy’s expertise is particularly relevant given the growing recognition of the intersection between climate change and gender inequality. Climate-related disasters disproportionately impact girls and women, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and hindering access to education and economic opportunities. “We need leaders who understand these complexities and can develop innovative solutions,” adds the source. Healy's current role as a board member of CNRL demonstrates her capacity to navigate intricate stakeholder environments, vital for an international organization working across multiple continents.

Beyond Charity: Measuring Impact and Ensuring Accountability

Plan International Canada is increasingly focused on demonstrating the tangible impact of its programs and ensuring accountability to donors and beneficiaries. The organization’s “Gifts of Hope” program, which reached 4.7 million people last year, allows donors to directly fund specific projects, such as providing girls with access to education or clean water. However, the organization is also moving beyond simple output measurements to assess the long-term outcomes of its interventions. “We’re investing in rigorous monitoring and evaluation systems to understand what works, what doesn’t, and how we can scale up effective solutions,” states a program evaluation specialist. Charity Intelligence Canada rates Plan International Canada as a 4-star charity, acknowledging the organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The organization allocates 83 cents of every dollar raised directly to program expenses, a figure validated by recent financial statements and audits. The “Gifts of Hope” program has demonstrated measurable outcomes, including increased school enrollment rates for girls and improved access to healthcare services in targeted communities. For example, in 2024, the program facilitated access to learning supplies for 1.7 million students and delivered over 10,000 metric tons of food to vulnerable populations.

Innovation at the Intersection of Development and Business

The appointments of Diamond and Healy reflect a broader trend within the international development sector: the increasing recognition of the value of business expertise and innovative approaches. “We need to move beyond traditional philanthropic models and embrace new ways of thinking,” explains a consultant specializing in social impact investing. “Business leaders bring a strategic mindset, a focus on results, and a knack for identifying opportunities. ” Plan International Canada is actively exploring partnerships with the private sector to leverage resources and expertise. This includes collaborations with companies committed to social responsibility and initiatives aimed at empowering girls and women. “We believe that by working together, we can achieve a greater impact,” adds the source. For example, the organization is partnering with technology companies to develop digital learning platforms and expand access to online education for girls in remote areas.