#ActForTomorrow: Connecting Beyond Projects at RVA

With over 12 years of experience in Human Resources and Talent Management across Asia and North America, Aeliya Saeed brings both expertise and heart to her role as RVA’s Talent Acquisition Specialist. A Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), she supports recruitment across the Corporate, Municipal, and Water groups, as well as our Atlantic Canada and Ottawa offices. Her work is focused on building strong relationships with both candidates and hiring managers, while managing our talent pipeline as she helps the right talent find the right opportunity.

According to Aeliya, the most meaningful part of her role is witnessing growth firsthand. “Welcoming some of the brightest engineering minds into RVA and watching them grow into their roles has been incredibly fulfilling,” she says. She cherishes moments when young professionals return to share their achievements and their pride in being part of the organization. “Knowing that my work connects people to careers that shape communities gives me a genuine sense of purpose.”

On the topic of purpose, community impact is a powerful source of motivation for RVAers. Each year, RVA hosts months-long company-wide charitable initiatives that bring people together for something bigger than themselves. Aeliya describes how rewarding it is to see individual contributions multiply into meaningful change. These events also allow her to meet colleagues beyond daily project work and strengthen connections rooted in shared purpose, she stated that “fundraising and charity initiatives strengthen RVA’s culture by giving people a chance to connect around a shared sense of purpose, not just shared projects or deadlines.”

One initiative she remembers vividly is the Fall Tree Planting Event with Ontario Streams. In a single day, employees planted 205 native trees and shrubs at Berczy Park North, Ontario, Canada, with the aim of contributing to improved water quality, restored habitat, and long-term biodiversity. “Being out there and simply learning about the local ecosystem, working side-by-side, and knowing our efforts will benefit the community for years to come was genuinely inspiring,” she recalls. Aeliya believes activities like these strengthen RVA’s culture far beyond the event itself. “When we rally around a cause, we break down silos, discover new leaders, and form relationships that go beyond offices and disciplines,” she explains. “It builds pride, belonging, and a workplace where people feel connected and valued – one where our #OneRVA mindset truly comes to life.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to see RVA continue supporting diverse community partnerships and expand outreach to vulnerable groups, including newcomer and refugee communities, aligning closely with RVA’s commitment to compassion and community wellbeing. “It’s how we continue building a workplace rooted in compassion, sustainability, and shared responsibility.” Aeliya made it clear that her work doesn’t end with talent acquisition; it continues at every moment where people connect, whether through careers, collaboration, or community.