Board of Directors
Being a Board Member for the Association of Women in Finance is a rewarding opportunity for any woman in finance wishing to obtain Board experience. The Association's Board positions are dynamic in nature and require the ability to work on several projects simultaneously, including assisting other Board members when called upon. These positions require energy and a positive attitude, as well as a time commitment. And what do volunteer Board members get in return? Involvement in a high caliber organization, an opportunity to develop professionally by taking on projects outside one's normal scope of work, lifelong friendships and valuable business networks. This is also a chance to give back to your community!
If you would like further information about the AWF, please contact us by email. Please include your name, telephone number and e-mail address to enable us to connect with you.
The AWF's Board of Directors is currently comprised of seventeen volunteer directors. They are:
Haleh (Holly) Alexander, MBA, FEA, PFP, Regional Vice President, National Bank of Canada
President
With over 30 years of experience in the financial industry, Haleh Alexander is a seasoned wealth management professional and Regional Vice President at National Bank Private Banking 1859. Holding an MBA in Strategic Management, along with the Personal Financial Planning and Family Enterprise Advisor designations, she specializes in providing holistic, tailored solutions for high net worth families and business owners across British Columbia.
She leads a team of professional Senior Private Bankers, overseeing clients' wealth management needs, including lending, investments, retirement and estate planning, tax optimization, and philanthropy.
Beyond her professional role, Haleh is deeply committed to community service. She serves on the Board of Directors for Lions Gate Hospital, and contributes to The Forum's Activation Committee, supporting women entrepreneurs.
She is proud to be part of National Bank, a leading Canadian financial institution that values diversity, innovation, and social responsibility.
Haleh previously held the position of Director, Scholarships & Bursaries (2023-2024) and Vice-President (2024-2025).
Katie Yu, Regional Vice-President, Business Financial Services, RBC Royal Bank
Vice President
As Regional Vice -President, Business Financial Services, Katie leads a team of over 300 employees and partners dedicated to providing financial advice and services to small businesses and commercial clients. In this role, Katie co -leads the Business Financial Services team in British Columbia by enhancing employee engagement, cultivating exceptional client experiences, and enabling One RBC partnerships. Katie works closely with leadership, relationship management, finance, credit risk and support teams to elevate performance, deliver key priorities and achieve premium market growth. Katie has over 15 years of experience working in the banking industry, having primarily worked in both personal and commercial banking. Katie has over 15 years of experience working in the banking industry, having primarily worked in both personal and commercial banking. She joined RBC in 2016 and has held progressively, senior leadership roles.
Katie is passionate about community service; she firmly believes community work is an essential and rewarding aspect in a person’s life. Throughout the years, she has volunteered and worked closely with organizations such as Association of Women in Finance (AWF), SheEO, Women of Influence, UBC Sauder School of Business Career Centre and BC Children’s Hospital, to name a few. Currently, she serves as the Treasurer & Board Director on the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce as well as serving as the Board Director, Major Events for AWF. Also, in 2021 / 2022 she served as the Board Director for the Risk Management Association for the Fraser Valley chapter. An enthusiast member of the business community, Katie prides herself as a champion of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Sustainable Business Practices and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG).
This is Katie's third year on the AWF Board of Directors, previously she held the position of Director, Major Events (2023-2025).
Clare Gaster, Partner, Audit, KPMG Private Enterprise
Treasurer
Clare is a partner with KPMG in the Vancouver Private Enterprise group. Clare is the audit partner for a portfolio of audit clients, delivering assurance services and supporting management and owners by providing accounting and assurance insights to help make their businesses even better. Reflective of Vancouver’s diverse range of small, mid-market and large private companies, Clare works across a range of industries including service and hospitality, retail, distribution, manufacturing, utilities, and technology.
Clare joined KPMG in 2000 and transferred from the UK to Canada in 2017. Clare is a CPA and FCA (ICAEW), holds a First-Class Honors degree in Accounting and Financial Management and works under ASPE and IFRS frameworks.
Outside of work, Clare enjoys spending her time with family, friends and dog getting out and about in BC – skiing, hiking, and exploring the area.
Clare has held this position on the AWF Board since 2018.
Sarah Wise, Associate, Blakes, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Governance/Secretary
Sarah is an associate in the Financial Services Group at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP. Her practice focuses on representing lenders and borrowers with corporate and debt financing transactions and related matters including in connection with secured and unsecured financings and cross-border transactions. Sarah works closely with companies across a wide range of industries and sectors, including mining and natural resources, transportation, agriculture and financial services.
Sarah holds a Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from the University of British Columbia/Sauder School of Business (With Honours).
This is Sarah's first year on the AWF Board of Directors.
Nesrine Jabbour, Principal, Pretium Wealth
Golf for Good
Nesrine Jabbour is a seasoned financial professional and the Principal at Pretium Wealth, where she specializes in wealth management and financial planning. With a passion for empowering individuals and families to achieve their financial goals, Nesrine has built a reputation for her personalized approach and strategic insights.
Nesrine earned a degree in Business Management & Certified Financial Planner Designation. Following her academic achievements, she began her career in the financial sector, quickly gaining valuable experience in investment analysis, risk management, and client relations. Her commitment to ongoing education and professional development has enabled her to stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes, ensuring her clients receive the most informed advice.
At Pretium Wealth, Nesrine leads a dedicated team focused on delivering tailored financial solutions. She is particularly known for her expertise in creating comprehensive wealth strategies that encompass investment management, retirement planning, and estate planning. Her holistic approach takes into consideration the unique needs and aspirations of each client, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and transparency.
Nesrine is an active member of the financial community, participating in various professional organizations and contributing to industry discussions on best practices. She is also passionate about financial literacy and often conducts workshops to educate clients and the community about effective wealth management strategies.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Nesrine enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new cuisines, running and advocating for causes that promote financial education and empowerment.
With her dedication to excellence and her clients' best interests at heart, Nesrine Jabbour continues to make a significant impact in the field of wealth management.
This is Nesrine's second year on the AWF board.
Anna Solnickova, Founder, CFO Consulting
Strategy and Communication
Anna is a Vancouver-based seasoned finance professional with 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, management, and leadership.
She spent majority of her career (2010 – 2023) as Vice President, Finance with a private financial services company, serving on the executive management team and leading the accounting and finance teams. In September 2023 Anna launched CFO Consulting, a boutique firm offering Fractional CFO services to small and medium-size firms, and in January 2025 she acquired 50% of Cove Mortgage Ltd., a financial services company that specializes in mortgage underwriting, administration, lending, and investing. She is also the Executive Officer of the Real Estate Compensation Fund Corporation, an organization that protects the public in the event of real estate services fraud.
As a two-time cancer conquer, Anna is deeply passionate about cancer research. She has been an active supporter of the Terry Fox Foundation since 2005 and in August 2024 was appointed to the Foundation’s Board of Directors. And as a bibliophile, she’s honored to serve on the Advisory Board of The Canadian Book Club Awards. She’s also an avid advocate for organizations that align with her core values and elevate women, namely Association of Women in Finance, She’s Got Next, and C-WIRE.
This is Anna's first year on the AWF Board of Directors.
Olivia Hornby, Managing Partner, Spring Impact Capital
Scholarships & Bursaries
Olivia is a Managing Partner and founding partner at Spring Impact Capital, a venture fund that focuses on climate and health innovations, with an emphasis on diverse and underserved communities. She has more than 15 years experience in finance and was formerly a VP at Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Throughout her career she has worked in wealth management, hedge funds and asset management at RBC, Vancity, amongst others.
She has a keen interest in supporting women entrepreneurs and investors. Olivia previously held the position of Director, PEAK Nominations (2022-2024).
Supriya Devgan, AVP Business Development, Canadian Western Bank
Alumni and Strategic Engagements
Supriya is a strategic business leader; corporate finance professional who has had progressively senior roles in corporate banking. Well versed in lending and business development, she has worked extensively in Canada, U.S. and Asia. An entrepreneur in a previous life, she founded and successfully exit an import and distribution business.
Supporting women in their career trajectory, particularly, in finance is what attracted her to volunteer for the current board position at AWF. Success of the Inaugural Speed Mentoring Event in 2023 was a personally gratifying moment. She looks forward to furthering the mandate of AWF in B.C.
Supriya holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Queen’s University and a Master’s in Microbiology from Panjab University.
Rachel Wong, Lawyer, Morgan Daniels Slager LLP
Sponsorship
Rachel is a corporate lawyer at Mogan Daniels Slager LLP, where she advises founders, companies, and investors on private M&A and private equity transactions. She began her legal career in Hong Kong and is called to the bar in both British Columbia and Hong Kong. Her practice spans a wide range of industries, and she thrives on helping clients navigate transitions, growth and complex deals.
Outside of her legal work, Rachel currently serves as Vice President of Development at the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers BC and was a member of AWF’s Sponsorship Steering Committee for 2024–2025. Through these roles, she has helped lead programming and partnerships that spotlight diverse voices and foster meaningful professional connections. Rachel is passionate about advancing women and underrepresented professionals in law, finance, and business, and believes strongly in the power of visibility, mentorship, and community.
This is her first year on the AWF Board.
Samantha Corrado, Sr. Credit Solutions Manager, Scotiabank
Sponsorship
Samantha Corrado is a seasoned banking professional with over 13 years of experience in commercial banking, specializing in credit, sales, and strategic leadership. She is a three-time Best of the Best award winner, recognized for her excellence in client service, relationship management and leadership.
Samantha is a change and transformational leader, known for driving inclusive practices and fostering innovation within her teams. She is deeply committed to mentorship and financial education, regularly volunteering her time to deliver financial literacy programs to youth and supporting the professional development of emerging talent through one-on-one coaching and career guidance.
Samantha brings a strong industry perspective, a collaborative spirit, and a deep dedication to creating inclusive opportunities across the financial sector.
This is Samantha's first year on the AWF Board.
Ava Mirfendereski, Regional Manager, Premium Banking, National Bank of Canada
PEAK Chair
Ava brings over 20 years of diverse experience in client relations, operations, and project management across industries like retail, banking, financial services, fintech, and cryptocurrency. Currently serving as the regional manager for the premium banking team at National Bank of Canada, she leads a team of bankers from Victoria to Winnipeg, focusing on delivering exceptional service to National Bank Financial clients.
Ava has successfully managed projects with various stakeholders, including executives, technology teams, and clients. She holds a master’s degree in International Development Studies from the London School of Economics, further enhancing her expertise in navigating complex environments.
This is Ava's second year on the AWF Board, previously she held the position of PEAK Vice-Chair (2024-2025).
Prianka Glossop, Supervisor, Mine Operations Consolidation
PEAK Vice-Chair
Maggie Puhacz, Partner, Smythe
PEAK Nominations
Maggie is a Partner at Smythe and a member of the firm’s Canadian Tax Group, specializing in Canadian tax, M&A advisory, and estate and trust services for privately held businesses and individuals. She leads Smythe’s People & Culture department, overseeing talent development and organizational strategy, and is also a member of the firm’s Technology Niche Group. Maggie advises owner-managed businesses on personal and corporate tax planning, succession, reorganizations, and real estate transactions. She has led M&A transactions ranging from $10 to $100 million in valuation, providing strategic tax and deal structuring support.
This is Maggie’s first year on the AWF Board of Directors.
Celeste Evancio, Associate General Counsel, Regulatory and Privacy, Richardson Wealth Limited
PEAK Marketing
Celeste Evancio is Associate General Counsel at Richardson Wealth. In her role, Celeste provides legal advice and guidance on regulatory, legislative and privacy related matters. She has more than 15 years of experience specializing in securities laws and regulations, legislative compliance and serving as a dedicated legal resource for financial intuitions and investment management firms. Celeste was formerly senior legal counsel at HSBC Canada.
Celeste is a strong supporter of advancing the careers of women. She was previously on the Board of YWCA Edmonton and Dress for Success Calgary. She is passionate about helping other women succeed in the financial industry and providing them with opportunities for advancement, growth and engagement.
Celeste holds a Juris Doctors Degree, Bachelor of Arts in Communications, and a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society from the University of Calgary. She has been called to the Bar in Alberta and British Columbia.
This is Celeste’s second year on the AWF Board.
Natallia Dzmitryieva
Events Director, Major Events
Tracy Theemes, Financial Advisor, Sophia Financial Group, Raymond James Ltd.
Events Director, Fireside Chats
Tracy Theemes is a financial advisor and co-founder of Sophia Financial Group, an investment advisory firm that works with high net worth clients while devoting a day each week to pro bono clients who do not have access to needed financial advice and support.
Tracy holds an M.A. in Counselling Psychology and did her Doctoral work in child psychology at UBC. She is a Certified Financial Planner, insurance licensed and a Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute. She received the UBC Education Alumni 100 award for her community leadership in promoting financial literacy and has been nominated for the YWCA Woman of Distinction award in Business and the Professions and the BIV Influential Women in Business award.
Tracy was awarded the International Alliance of Women Global 100 Award for her work in empowering women through education. Her book “The Financially Empowered Woman” won the Bronze prize for the Living Now awards for finance and economics and the Axiom Gold medal in the category of personal finance.
This is Tracy's second year on the AWF Board.
Ashneet Sohal, Senior Manager, Product Development, Vancity Credit Union
Events Director, Fraser Valley
Ashneet is a Senior Manager of Retail Banking Product Management at Vancity, Canada’s largest credit union. In this role, she manages the lending product portfolio which includes product life cycle management through product strategy, product development and P&L management. She is passionate about building exceptional products and services that drive customer value and have a meaningful impact on the business.
Ashneet brings over 10 years of experience in the financial services sector. This has included various roles such as Product Manager, Strategy Consultant, Program Manager and most recently as a Senior Manager of Product Development.
Ashneet is the winner of 2024 National Young Leaders Award. This prestigious award by the Canadian Credit Union Association recognizes the best and brightest young leaders in Canada’s credit union system. Ashneet is currently serving a three-year term on the National Young Leaders Committee, helping drive the committee’s mission to strengthen the Canadian credit union system through the development and engagement of up-and-coming young leaders.
Ashneet holds a Bachelor of Science Degree, a CFP designation as well as many Product Management certifications. Outside of work, Ashneet likes to travel, explore new restaurants, and shares a passionate interest in cinema with her husband.
This is Ashneet's second year on the AWF Board.