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Jack Wong

Chief Executive Officer

Until January 2011, Jack was Assistant Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer for The Vancouver Board of Trade. With 10 years’ experience in the not-for-profit sector and an additional 10 years in real estate development and construction, Jack brings strategic planning, collaborative focus, and a low panic threshold to the Real Estate Foundation. Jack received a Bachelor of Commerce & Business Administration from the Sauder School of Business, UBC and is a certified member and fellow of the Society of Management Accountants of BC (FCMA). Jack’s other roles include the city appointee and current chair of the Richmond Museum Society; current BC chapter executive chair and member of National Leaders Council for the Canadian Society of Association Executives; and mentor in the Sauder School of Business MBA mentorship program.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Celina Owen

Manager, Communications & Administration

Celina wears several hats in her role including communications, grants, and general office operations; she enjoys working to make the Foundation more efficient and effective at what it does. Celina brings an historical perspective to the Foundation, having been with the organization since 1998. Prior to joining the Foundation Celina worked in environmental education programming and teaching. She has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Simon Fraser University. Outside work Celina enjoys yoga, going for walks, baking (especially things with chocolate in them), and reading books that capture her imagination.

"I appreciate the opportunity to work with so many committed and talented people, both inside and outside the Foundation."

Hedy Rubin

Grants Manager

Hedy helps organizations access funding from the Foundation by reviewing grant proposals, liaising with applicants about their projects, and making funding recommendations to the Board of Governors. With a passion for connecting with worthwhile organizations and assisting them to fulfill their missions, Hedy brings strong research and communication skills to the Foundation. She has 16+ years working in grant making and community programs, including 13 years at Vancity. Hedy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and French from the University of British Columbia. Hedy’s favorite thing to do is to spend time with her three kids.

“I love having the opportunity to be involved in a variety of important initiatives taking place in BC and working with the people driving projects that are effecting real change in our communities and the environment.”

Jen McCaffrey

Grants Manager

Jen evaluates grant proposals and makes funding recommendations to the board of governors. She assists potential grant applicants in determining how their projects may fit the Foundation mandate and works closely with grantees through the grant application process. Having previously worked for six years in sustainable investing, Jen brings a global perspective to sustainable development and land use, providing helpful insight into how others around the globe are addressing similar issues. Jen has a Bachelor of Arts in history from Simon Fraser University and is currently working on the Sustainable Community Development certificate, also from SFU. Jen enjoys hiking in the summer and snowboarding in the winter. Jen’s also keeps busy exploring the world anew through the eyes of her young son.

“I am inspired and motivated by the passion, energy, and commitment of our grantees to make this province a better place to live.”

Leanne Sexsmith

Grants Manager

Leanne works with grantees, the staff team, the Board of Governors and our partners to implement the Foundation’s grants program. She is inspired by the many people and organizations working together across BC on new approaches to land use that support healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future. In addition to her regular role as a Foundation Grants Manager, Leanne administers our Green Building Grants Program in partnership with Vancity. Leanne is a professional planner with 15+ years experience – both in community planning and as manager of West Vancouver’s municipal community grants program. She has a Masters degree in Planning from the School of Community and Regional Planning at UBC and is a member of the Planning Institute of BC. Leanne loves spending time with her two daughters, travelling, skiing, and exploring BC’s mountains and coast.

“I feel very fortunate to be part of a great team of people supporting innovative projects that are making a real difference in the well-being of communities and natural environments across the province.”

Christian Hansen

Compliance & Revenue Analyst

Christian manages compliance to Section 29 of the Real Estate Services Act and liases with financial institutions and real estate brokers. He advises brokers in setting up trust accounts which comply with the Act and answers any questions. With a broad view and interest of the function of financial markets, Christian brings strong statistical and analytical skills. He is currently pursuing a CMA designation and has a Bachelor of Science from Simon Fraser University. When not working on Excel spreadsheets, Christian enjoys cycling, running, and snowboarding.

“It is great to be a part of an organization that works hard for the betterment of the people of BC. My role in compliance increases the Foundation's ability to provide grants and positively impact the lives of people in our province.”

Erik Miller

Grants Administrator

Erik ensures that grant files are complete and up-to-date to ensure grant questions, applications, and payments, get processed in a timely manner. He is the primary point of contact with grantees and applicants, helping them better understand grant requirements and reporting. Having spent three years working in information management in the public sector, Erik is experienced in helping people navigate their way through proper process. Erik received a Bachelor of Arts in economics and a certificate in Liberal Arts, both from Simon Fraser University. On his free time Erik enjoys motorcycles and board games.

“I get a high level of satisfaction from making the granting process as smooth as possible so that organizations do not face obstacles in accessing much needed funds for important projects.”

Leta Smith

Meeting & Event Manager

Leta is responsible for planning Foundation meetings and events including the Land Awards Gala Dinner and other initiatives of the Real Estate Foundation. Leta has a certificate in Business Administration from her hometown of Newcastle, Australia and has studied event planning at BCIT. Leta also acts as board liaison for internal and external events and supports the CEO. When not in the office, Leta enjoys cooking, entertaining, travel, and sunshine.

“I enjoy being part of the REF team and working together to raise profile and awareness of land use initiatives in BC."

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