Dara is a social impact executive with over 20 years’ experience leading purpose-driven organizations. 

Dara’s notable achievements include 12 years in executive roles leading social purpose organizations. She has also worked for the United Nations Association in Canada, and Cuso International. For three years Dara consulted with UN-Habitat on their inaugural Youth Advisory Board, helping mainstream youth participation throughout the organization.

Career & Educational Highlights:

• Board Director, Forward Global (2022-present)

• VP, Grants & Community Initiatives, Vancouver Foundation (2019-2024)

• Executive Director, Social Venture Partners (2016-2019)

• Executive Director, QMUNITY (2012-2016)

• Integral Coaching Canada Certified Coach (2024)

• INSEAD Executive Management Certificate (2022)

• ICD Governance Essentials Certificate (2017)

• Masters in Planning, UBC (2004-2006)

Dara began her career working in international development and has traveled to over 50 countries, spanning five continents. Her CIDA-funded youth engagement work in Lesotho (Southern Africa), inspired her to return to pursue a Masters in Planning at the University of British Columbia, with a focus on using human-centered design principles to build more equitable and inclusive communities.

Dara is a skilled facilitator and has done extensive media work; she is regularly engaged as a public speaker on social impact. She currently serves on the Board of Forward Global, and has previously sat on the Boards of New Relationship Trust Foundation and Pivot Legal Society.

Dara lives with her partner in Syilx Okanagan territory and spends her down time chasing her French bulldogs, Mr. Bumper and Sir Waffles.