Cooperation Canada’s Board of Directors is comprised of 14 Directors that are drawn from our diverse and committed membership. Our Board of Directors serve a critical governance function and we are so grateful for their guidance and dedication.
We are thrilled to be welcoming five new Directors to the Cooperation Canada Board. Thank you to these incredible leaders for stepping forward – we look forward to working with you in this important capacity!
Anne-Catherine Bajard
Anne-Catherine has been the Executive Director of British Columbia Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC) since 2020, after previously serving on its board. A lifelong human rights activist, she spent over 20 years in Bolivia working alongside Indigenous movements and domestic workers’ federations, learning the power of deep listening and self-reflection. Her experiences in Liberia and Haiti exposed her to the colonial dynamics within international cooperation, shaping her commitment to shifting these attitudes. She continues to advocate for equity and systemic change, inspiring the next generation to build a more just world.
Julie Francoeur
Julie Francoeur is the CEO of Fairtrade Canada, bringing over 15 years of experience in the Fairtrade International system across 13 countries. She has worked with farmers, cooperatives, brands and governments to build sustainable supply chains and empower producers. Holding an MBA in Emerging Markets and degrees in International Development and Political Science, she is also part of the Global Fairtrade Executive Team and has contributed to sustainability strategies at Nespresso and McCain. Julie is committed to scaling Fairtrade’s impact and ensuring farmers and workers thrive.
Ferrada Jacob Lightning
Spi Mi Sa Tim (Sky Horse), also known as Ferrada Jacob Lightning, is a Climate Advisor with VIDEA, supporting civil society and government in integrating diverse knowledge systems. Nehiyaw (Cree) and Iyethkabi (Stoney Nakoda) from Treaty 6 and 7 territories, they are pursuing a Criminal Justice degree at Mount Royal University. Passionate about sustainability, cultural governance and locally led development, they have worked internationally alongside Indigenous leaders. Recognized with honours like the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation’s Top 30 Under 30 Award, they are also a member of the Cooperation Canada Emerging Leaders Network and advocate for equity, decolonization and reconciliation.
Musu Taylor-Lewis
Musu Taylor-Lewis is the President & CEO of Food for the Hungry (FH) Canada, bringing over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, international cooperation and organizational development. Her early exposure to global inequality fueled her passion for community-led development, which she pursued through studies in economics, community economic development and Christian theology. She has held leadership roles at Tearfund Canada and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and has served on key committees, including Cooperation Canada’s Anti-Racist Cooperation (ARC) Hub. Musu is dedicated to working with global church-based organizations and inspiring Canadians to drive lasting change for a more equitable world.
Béatrice Vaugrante
Béatrice Vaugrante is the Executive Director of Oxfam Québec and a feminist leader committed to human rights, equality and transforming international NGOs. With nearly 25 years of experience in Canada and globally, she advocates for linking climate and economic justice with gender equality. She previously led Amnestie internationale Canada Francophone (2007–2017), championing Indigenous rights, refugee issues and youth engagement, and later held global leadership roles at Amnesty International’s Secretariat. With a background in the private sector and an MBA from HEC Paris, she has been recognized for her contributions, including the Quebec Charter of Rights and Freedoms’ 40th anniversary award.