From the front lines to the forefront of strategy.
My career has been forged in the two worlds your non-profit navigates every day: the world of frontline, mission-driven service and the world of high-stakes, boardroom advocacy.
My boots-on-the-ground experience was forged on the front lines, such as working directly with vulnerable populations at the Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre. I saw firsthand how a powerful mission can change lives, but also how operational and funding challenges can threaten that vital work. That experience fuels my empathy for the leaders I partner with today.
Later, as the Executive Director of a Chamber of Commerce, I was in a different kind of battle. Our community faced a crisis of rampant rural crime that was crippling local businesses. This wasn't a problem we could solve with another meeting. It was a complex, systemic threat that demanded a new level of strategic action.
I banded together with neighbouring municipalities and chambers to bring the urgent problem of rural crime to the attention of provincial decision-makers. While meaningful, systemic change takes time, it matters to have a strong, persistent advocate who can communicate and collaborate with leaders at every level of government. I developed a funding model and a grant proposal designed to give municipalities more control to address their own, unique circumstances. I also raised the issue directly with relevant ministers and kept our community’s needs on the provincial agenda.
In this role I also took our community’s concerns directly to the national stage — I presented before the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources in 2019 on the impacts of Bill C-69, which reshaped how major infrastructure and resource-development projects are reviewed.
I argued that when regulatory uncertainty, extended timelines and shifting criteria dominate the process, rural businesses and municipalities often face the collateral damage. I brought forward our region’s voice — emphasising that a regulatory regime must be both environmentally responsible and predictably fair, so that investments and livelihoods aren’t left waiting in the balance.
Why that combined experience matters for you.
That journey—from the front lines of a crisis centre to the forefront of community advocacy—forged my unique approach. I understand both the heart of your mission and the strategic levers required to protect and scale it.
We won’t just talk about theories; we will build coalitions within your board. We won’t just hope for funding; we will execute a tenacious strategy to secure it. We will replace chaos with a clear plan, uncertainty with a resilient framework, and division with a unified, energized team.
From community advocacy to your strategic partner.
I’m not a theorist who has only studied your world; I’m an operator who has lived it. I founded Lyons Leadership & Solutions because I saw too many incredible leaders burning out under the weight of operational chaos, unable to bridge the gap between their passion and a sustainable plan.
My role is to be your strategic partner—to bring that direct, in-the-trenches experience you need to stop firefighting and start leading with confidence.
Our commitment to your mission
My goal isn't just to be your consultant; it's to be the strategic partner who helps you get back to the work you were born to do.
Together, we will cut through the operational fog that’s holding you back. We’ll replace the constant scramble for funding with a sustainable engine, and the reactive chaos with a clear, actionable roadmap.
The result is that you get to be a visionary leader again. You’ll have the confidence to lead and the strategy to thrive, giving you the space to focus on what truly matters: the community that depends on you and the legacy you are building.
Results that speak for themselves
"Serina has expertly guided our board through training and strategic planning sessions, bringing both strength and clarity to every conversation. She’s a true powerhouse of a presenter... Read more
— Lise Fielding
Former President of Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce
"Serina has expertly guided our board through training and strategic planning sessions, bringing both strength and clarity to every conversation. She’s a true powerhouse of a presenter, yet her warmth and energy make each session genuinely enjoyable. Serina has a remarkable ability to draw everyone into the process, encouraging full participation without ever making it feel forced.
Beyond her work in the boardroom, Serina has navigated uncertain times and unexpected challenges within the Chamber with unwavering professionalism and a forward-focused mindset. Her leadership moved the organization from simply surviving to truly thriving, and her vision helped stabilize and elevate the Chamber when it mattered most.
I highly recommend Serina—her expertise, character, and commitment make her an invaluable asset to any organization fortunate enough to work with her."
— Lise Fielding
Former President of Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce
"I’ve had the privilege of working with Serina Lyons for nearly a decade in a variety of roles, and I can say with complete confidence that she brings an unmatched blend of integrity, heart... Read more
— Thea Abdolhady
"I’ve had the privilege of working with Serina Lyons for nearly a decade in a variety of roles, and I can say with complete confidence that she brings an unmatched blend of integrity, heart, and strategic vision to every project she touches.
Our relationship began when Serina hired students from the Métis training program I managed at Rupertsland. From the very start, she treated our learners with dignity and genuine care, ensuring they were not just placed, but truly supported. As the years went on, Serina’s leadership style continued to stand out to me—collaborative, community-focused, and always rooted in lifting others up.
So when Serina approached me about joining the chamber board, I didn’t hesitate. Yes, I wanted to support the community—but the real reason I said yes was because it meant the chance to work alongside her again. Serina inspires people to step up, get involved, and believe in what’s possible.
Lyons Leadership & Solutions is simply an extension of who Serina is: thoughtful, solutions-driven, and committed to making meaningful change. Any organization that partners with her is in exceptional hands."
— Thea Abdolhady
"During her time with DMSCC, Serina proved to be an indispensable part of our team. She not only searched out and secured critical grants, led successful fundraising initiatives but also... Read more
— Susan White
"During her time with DMSCC, Serina proved to be an indispensable part of our team. She not only searched out and secured critical grants, led successful fundraising initiatives but also built lasting relationships with donors and community stakeholders. Serina approaches her work with intelligence, integrity, and a genuine passion for impact. I am confident that she will bring the same level of dedication and excellence to all of her clients."
— Susan White
What you can expect when we work together
Unfiltered Honesty
We will address the real issues, not just the comfortable ones. You need a partner who will tell you the truth, even when it's hard.
Action Over Analysis
A good plan executed today is better than a perfect plan that lives in a binder. We are biased toward decisive, forward momentum.
Partnership, Not Prescription.
I don't hand you a generic report and walk away. We are in this together, building your team's internal capacity for long-term success.