Our Board

I believe in empowering and supporting women rediscover their inner strength. My interest in SHADE stems from my experiences as an immigrant woman and a social worker. I have witnessed the impact of abuse on women and their children. I am also aware of the complex factors that hinder people from leaving abusive relationships. I am excited to be a part of SHADE because I believe this organization will provide a place of “shade” for vulnerable people.  

The idea for SHADE rose from my experiences in reuniting and helping to settle refugee families and observing the strain of acculturation many encounter.  As well, my own experience living with intimate partner violence and journey to healing informed the creation of SHADE.  My faith and depth of empathy for individuals in crisis and for those who have experienced trauma has shaped my social responsibility and desire to impact my local community for good.

For me, being a part of SHADE is a way to encourage women to fight against domestic violence and sexual assault.  I believe that “Women are a source of power” and in all religions, women have a supreme place.  As a settlement worker, I want to help women so that they can feel safe, and be free from fear, harm and any form of discrimination. For me, SHADE is a light and a hand for all women. I am very excited and feel honoured being a part of SHADE.

I have spent the last several years working with vulnerable communities such as newcomers, financially disadvantaged, victims of intimate partner violence and persons with disabilities facing socio-economic and mental health challenges. Through my work, I have come to realize that I am passionate about social justice and creating a world where everyone receives equal economic, political, social, and cultural rights and opportunities. I want to use my work experience, passion for social justice and lived experience as an immigrant woman to support women experiencing intimate partner violence. For actualization of real progress, access to resources, equity, and human rights are imperative. 

Retired civil servant with 40 years of experience, including 21 years teaching at the high school, college, and university level, and 19 years with the Government of Manitoba. Specialization in finance, economics, and evaluation. Since 2015, I have also been volunteering with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) supporting low-income individuals and families completing and filing tax returns. I enjoy volunteering and putting my experience to use helping those most in need.

Independent policy advisor for international and local non-governmental organizations, United Nations agencies, and bilateral agencies. Core areas of experience in results-based management with a detailed understanding of research, evidence, data, and policy application, with an emphasis on social protection. Experience working with vulnerable communities and marginalized individuals in Bangladesh, Canada, Indonesia, Kenya, Pakistan, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United States.