Photo by Jennifer Friesen.

I’m Silvia Pikal, a Calgary-based strategic communications leader known for stepping into complex environments, setting direction and encouraging teams to dream big—then creating the structure that makes those ideas a reality. This approach has doubled web traffic, driven newsletter engagement to 60% and earned recognition from the Alberta Magazine Awards and the National Magazine Awards: B2B edition.

I’m a people-first leader who brings curiosity, calm and clarity—especially in difficult conversations. I invert the pyramid so teams feel supported, empowered and able to rise. Mentorship is a core part of my approach because it creates future equals.

I hold a Bachelor of Communication in Journalism from Mount Royal University and am a proud graduate of the competitive Poynter Women in Media Leadership Program (2025). I recently completed the Creative Writing Certificate at the University of Calgary. I also serve as Chair of the Banff Book Discussion Weekend board, guiding strategy and overseeing planning of the organization’s annual event, now celebrating its 65th anniversary.

Outside of work, you’ll find me walking my rescue pup with my husband Derek, reading, practicing yoga, or eating my way through multiple sharing plates at a restaurant with friends. I also love to travel—highlights include watching the sunset from the top of Sacré-Cœur in Paris, stumbling upon a bamboo forest in Tokyo, swimming (at a safe distance) with a shark-attack-survivor sea turtle in Oahu, walking in the rain to The Strand bookstore in New York City and exploring London’s Christmas markets.