Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Bio: Originally from Quebec City. Graduated Gallaudet U in 1977 – Psychology B.A. Moved to B.C. 1986 and has been involved ever since. Treasurer of the GVAD back in the ‘80s, Project Coordinator for Jim T’s walk across Canada in 1990. Had own computer business and moved to Kelowna in 2002. Was BCAD Vice-President 2002-03. Has been OVAD Treasurer for 20 years. On DCF Board about 10 years. President since June 2022.

Bio: Nigel Howard is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria and the University of British Columbia, both in the Department of Linguistics. He worked for 25 years at Douglas College in the Sign Language Interpretation Program and Child, Family, and Community Studies. With nearly 30 years of experience as an interpreter, Nigel has worked in medical, legal, theatre, community, and conference settings, both locally and internationally. He is an Accredited International Sign Interpreter by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) and the World Association of Sign Language Interpreters (WASLI), and is also part of the United Nations team of International Sign interpreters.

Nigel advocates for Deaf communities locally in British Columbia, nationally, and globally in areas such as human rights, accessibility, and Deaf culture. He serves as a board member of the BC Deaf Children’s Society (DCS) and an executive board member of WASLI. He provides consultations and training to governments and organizations to promote better understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture and signed languages. Additionally, he is a long-time member of the editorial board for the International Journal of Interpreter Education.

Through his work, Nigel bridges cultures and languages, advocating for a more inclusive society where everyone can be their true selves.

Bio: A B.C. native, Assadali is a dedicated finance professional holding a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting. He is a financial coach and trainer for the Deaf Interpreter IBPOC workshop and has expertise in financial auditing. Assadali also enjoys his current role as a Deaf interpreter. Through his diverse experiences, he continues to make meaningful contributions to the finance industry while championing inclusivity and social empowerment within his community.

Bio: Born in McLeese Lake, B.C., Ian is the most outdoors-oriented board member to date. A graduate of JHS, Ian has been actively involved in numerous activities within the B.C. Deaf community, particularly with the 4x4 group since its inception. He also supports groups such as the Deaf-Blind of B.C. and enjoys activities like diving as part of his active lifestyle.

Bio: I am DeafBlind and have ataxia. I use a power wheelchair or walker to get around. I graduated from SFU in 2000 with a BA in Psychology, likely one of the school’s first DeafBlind students. I have served on many local, national, and international councils, committees, and societies/associations. While I do not work, I write extensively about my life through blogs, long introductions, and three novels currently in production. I strive to do my best to support and help the Deaf community.

Bio: Raakhee has a keen interest in cooking and photography. She enjoys experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen and capturing beautiful moments through her lens as a photographer. She believes in continuous learning and growth and is always eager to take on new challenges and opportunities. Raakhee is also very active in the Deaf community, collaborating with GVAD and other organizations.

Bio: Renu is a Deaf first-generation Canadian of South Asian descent. She currently serves as the Director of Operations and Chief Financial Officer at the Canadian Administrator of Video Relay Service (CAV). Before joining CAV, Renu spent over 15 years in the corporate sector, specializing in accounting, finance, information technology, and project management. She is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with bachelor’s degrees in Information Technology and Business Administration from Simon Fraser University. Additionally, Renu holds an AgileBA Foundation certification and is a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO).