Board of Directors

Petchphilin (Pauline) has a bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta in secondary education. She has 6 years of experience teaching both teenagers and adult academics English and ESL courses in addition to social studies and art at the high school level. She enjoys working with and volunteering her time to support diverse communities.

Carmel has more than a decade of global experience in Marketing and Business Management in various industries such as Pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and Personal Care. She has also served as teacher and research advisor to young women and has been involved with organizations that promote economic empowerment.

Rajiv works in the legal department of Jobber, a leading field service management software provider. His developing practice includes advising Jobber in relation to a variety of corporate and commercial matters. He is a member of the Law Society of Alberta and the Canadian Bar Association. He is passionate about supporting his community and has previous experience teaching math, science, coding, and Hindi

Colin has spent 30 years in entrepreneurship and his current chapter is all about helping others navigate the tricky waters of starting and growing a business. As the owner of several of his own businesses in diverse industries including building materials, renewable energies, social enterprise, and technology, he has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs around the world raise millions of dollars and, in many cases, bring their families out of poverty and create better options for themselves, their communities and the world at large. Including developing ecosystems internationally paired with microlending platforms, he currently serves as Entrepreneur in Residence at MacEwan University.

Charles is a former business reporter, writer, and cross-functional team leader with a track record of leading communications and external relations teams in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East over the last 15 years. A lifelong learner with a passion for youth education, leadership training, community, and entrepreneurship development, Charles brings his strategic communications experience, intercultural and non-profit sector knowledge, and perspectives to the AHC Board. He also chairs the Board of Junior Achievement Africa, which prepares over 900,000 young people each year through hands-on training in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. As a valued community member, Charles volunteers to support causes promoting social and economic equity for underserved community members.

Ben has a Bachelor of Arts from the King’s University, and has spent the last 3 years raising funds for non-profits throughout Edmonton. Ben has worked with local and international non-profit organizations to advance economic and social development within his community and in the global south. He is deeply passionate about helping build pathways out of poverty and is actively involved in the community to advance similar efforts.

Mohamed is the President of Negmax Industrial Innovations, a leading company in robotics automation and industrial innovations. With over 15 years of experience, Mohamed has established himself as a serial entrepreneur, founding and successfully running several hardware automation companies. His extensive expertise in entrepreneurship and engineering has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in the industrial sector. Mohamed holds an MPhil in Manufacturing Engineering from Cardiff University, which has provided him with a strong foundation for his professional expertise. As a respected industry leader in his field, Mohamed has authored numerous scientific publications and has frequently contributed to recognized and notable scientific conferences and journals.

Navneet is a strategic, innovative, results-driven chartered human resource professional with extensive employee relations experience in a full range of functions, as well as success in simultaneously managing multiple projects. She brings in a wealth of experience as a human resource expert during her time with multiple non-profit organizations, where she honed her skills and contributed to their missions. As an employee relations expert, Navneet has a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of human resources management. She is continually developing her wealth of knowledge in human resources and employee relations and is a certified Chartered Professional for Human Resources, SHRM Certified Professional, and a Registered Professional Recruiter.

John Alexander is an experienced nonprofit and public sector leader, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Search and Rescue Alberta. He brings over 15 years of experience in operations management, community engagement, and post-secondary education. John previously served on the AHC Board, including time as Board Chair, and is now returning to the Board after a two-year break. He holds an MBA from the University of Alberta and has a longstanding interest in supporting newcomers and marginalized communities through inclusive, collaborative leadership.

Faisal is a seasoned program and project management leader with over 20 years of experience spanning public health, IT transformation, and international development. Currently serving as a Senior Consultant at CGI, Faisal has led large-scale healthcare and justice system initiatives across Alberta, including Alberta Health Services and Alberta Justice. His career includes key roles with the World Health Organization and AMAL Human Development Network, where he managed multi-million-dollar programs in equity, health, and capacity building. Faisal holds an MA in International Research Bioethics from Monash University and multiple credentials in project and change management. His deep commitment to inclusive development, community engagement, and strategic governance makes him a valuable addition to the AHC Board.

David Bourne is a Chartered Professional Accountant with over 20 years of experience spanning public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He currently serves as an Equity Partner and Director at Seablinc Canada Inc., where he leads strategic initiatives in global commodity trading and supply chain management. David holds an MBA from Queen’s School of Business and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta. His governance experience includes serving on several nonprofit and advocacy boards, including as President of both the Cloverdale Community League and the Venetian Condo Corporation. David brings a strong background in financial oversight, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement to his role on the AHC Board