About Petronilla

DIRECTOR -MEMBERSHIP

Petronilla Ndebele, M.A., APR, is an award-winning strategic communications leader with more than 27 years of experience in Canada and southern Africa. She is currently Director of Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Relations at Community Living Toronto, where she provides strategic counsel on communications, stakeholder relations, crisis communications, media relations, brand and reputation management, and organizational change.

Throughout her career, Petronilla has held senior communications and leadership roles with reputable organizations across Ontario, including municipal government, health care, environmental protection, and developmental services. Her work has been recognized with multiple national and international awards for excellence in communications, public relations, and community engagement.

In 2025, Petronilla founded NillaRock Communications Inc., a public relations and strategic communications agency focused on helping organizations and individuals tell stories with a purpose. Through NillaRock, she brings her experience in strategic communications, storytelling and stakeholder engagement to a broader range of clients and communities.

A former journalist and broadcaster, Petronilla believes communications should do more than deliver messages. It should build trust, strengthen relationships, support organizations through change and help communities feel heard and connected. Her experience working across sectors and cultures has shaped an inclusive and adaptable approach to strategic communications and public relations.

She earned her APR designation in 2015 and holds a Master’s degree in International Communication and Development from City University in London, United Kingdom, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Communications from the Institute of Marketing Management in South Africa. She also holds a Diploma in Journalism.

As a member of the CPRS Toronto Board of Directors, Petronilla is committed to contributing her experience, perspective and passion for the profession while helping strengthen the value and impact of public relations and its contribution to organizations and communities.