Board Members 2026
Jennifer Hill (Interim President)
Jennifer has been an invaluable part of SGSC for the past eight years, contributing in various ways from preparing meals for holiday gatherings to serving lunch to our members. We are excited to welcome her to the board! With a background as a retired community health nurse, Jennifer has led initiatives focused on fall prevention, nutrition, blood pressure management, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Her extensive career in health promotion has equipped her with the skills to collaborate with community partners in developing and implementing programs that enhance health and prevent disease across all age groups. In addition to her work with SGSC, Jennifer is actively involved in several other community organizations, including the Jane Goodall Institute's Roots & Shoots program for children, the Richmond Food Bank, and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
Fred Zhuang (Treasurer)
Fred is a CPA engaged in the automotive industry where he serves as the controller. In this role, he oversees accounting, evaluates financial performance, and provides strategic advice to the owner. Fred is deeply interested in the social well-being of the local community and supports SGSC’s mission to enhance the well-being of seniors. He embraces the organization’s vision of integrating both in-person and virtual elements into its program presentation.
Rebecca Ward
Hi! My name is Rebecca Ward. I have lived in Vancouver for 15 years with my husband and three girls. I have worked in Non-Profit for my entire career; working in particular with vulnerable adults at risk for homelessness and other marginalized populations. I have recently started to work more closely with Senior’s and found I have developed a strong passion working with such an amazing community. I hope to continue in this line of work, developing a strong understanding coupled with continuous growth and learning. Each day is a new opportunity to give back to my community and challenge myself to make a difference.
Meisam Mirzaee Ataabadi
I am an educator and researcher with a background in philosophy, along with professional experience in accounting and auditing. My academic work focuses on metaphysics and logic, and I have written several graduate theses exploring questions about the nature of concepts, existence, and the structure of thought.
I am also the author of a book on the history of religion in 9th-century Iran, and I am currently developing several research papers on the metaphysics of concepts.
At the Centre, I aim to contribute through educational initiatives while applying my audit and accounting experience to support effective governance and strengthen organizational oversight
Amelia Chen
I lead governance-aligned strategy and organizational design within complex nonprofit and community-based environments. My work focuses on strengthening operating structures and aligning People & Culture, policy, and enterprise systems to support long-term community impact. I bring experience serving on boards, contributing to clear strategic direction.
I am particularly interested in how community institutions foster inclusive, connected environments and adapt to evolving community needs over time.
My academic background includes MBA training from Boston University, along with advanced studies in organizational leadership, financial management, and data analytics and digital transformation through Northwestern University, Duke University, and Dartmouth College.
Ingrid Kastens
Ingrid holds a BSW and MSW from UBC and has spent decades working in government and community services, in addition to teaching at multiple local colleges and universities. A few years ago, Ingrid left her post as CEO of a large award winning (47 awards) not-for-profit. She is a recipient of a YWCA Women of Distinction Award, the Federation of Community Social Services of BC Award of Excellence, a Surrey Board of Trade Women in Leadership Award, and represented BC on the Child Welfare League of Canada. Ingrid works as a consultant and chairs the Dogwood Initiative, an environmental alliance. Past board involvements include serving on the boards of the Federation of Social Services of BC and the BC Association of Social Workers (Co-chair). Every Tuesday Ingrid rides her bike to join the SGSC’s knitting group -- a happy place.
Ryan Natividad
Hi everyone, my name is Ryan and I am truly honoured to be joining the board at South Granville Seniors Centre. I am excited to be part of this community and look forward to contributing in a meaningful way. I aim to do my Master of Social Work, as I have a heartfelt passion for advocating and caring for vulnerable and low-income populations, including people with disabilities, marginalized communities, and seniors. In my professional work within the non-profit and charity sector, I focus on food security, community development, digital literacy, and building meaningful community partnerships, all of which I hope to bring into my board role. I also have a strong interest in event and program planning, and helping create initiatives where everyone feels connected, included, and well supported. Thank you, and I look forward to meeting each and every one of you and hope to connect soon.
Iro Lugo
Iro has had a diverse and impactful career. She served as a language instructor with the US Peace Corps in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica, where she also led various educational initiatives to support underprivileged children. Since moving to Vancouver in 2008, Iro has dedicated her time to volunteering at the 411 Senior Centre, the United Church, and SGSC.
She is an active member of SGSC and contributes as a volunteer Spanish instructor, sharing her language skills, and fostering a sense of community among participants.