Don Schapira, Q.Med., founded Fresh Start Mediation in 2014 after recognizing the need for a better way to resolve conflict in family, business, and educational settings. Following his own divorce in 2008, he saw firsthand the challenges of the traditional divorce process and became dedicated to creating a more effective, compassionate path forward. With 15 years of financial experience on Bay Street, Don helps clients make informed financial decisions during times of transition, guiding them toward their own “fresh start.”
Having trained at Harvard, Cornell, and Northwestern Universities, Don has supported hundreds of families in reaching healthy resolutions through mediation. Beyond his professional practice, he is actively involved in community organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Peer Mediation and Skills Training, and Businesses for Calgary Kids. Committed to advancing the field of alternative dispute resolution, Don also serves with ADRIA, sits on the board of the Alberta Family Mediation Society, and is the Executive Director of the Alberta Arbitration and Mediation Society. His experience and dedication allow him to deeply understand clients’ needs and help them reach meaningful agreements.