Jennifer Lord, Executive Director

Jennifer has a wealth of experience as an arts administrator in the not-for-profit sector with over fifteen years professional experience including project management, arts programming, revenue generation, financial management, strategic planning & community engagement. Most recently she worked for Creative City Network of Canada as the General Manager for three years & Vancouver Opera for eight years as the Special Projects & Community Engagement Manager. Past experience includes General Manager of Dancers Dancing as well as arts administration for the Vancouver Playhouse, Belfry Theatre (Victoria) & Harbourfront (Toronto). Jennifer is a passionate advocate for arts, culture & heritage, & welcomes the opportunity to work for this dynamic organization.  

Jennifer joined WVCAC as Executive Director in April 2016.

Steven Snider, Gallery & Communications Manager

Steven Snider (he/him) has been with the WVCAC since 2009, having started as part-time summer staff while attending the IDEA School of Design at Capilano University. As Gallery & Communications Manager, he believes in & supports the WVCAC's mission to make the Arts accessible & impactful for all members of the community, while also fostering the talents of local artists. Steven's background in design, illustration, festival management, professional organizing & retail management - alongside over a decade with the WVCAC - has granted him the perspectives & skills of a creative, a client liaison, an administrator & community activator, which he proudly & enthusiastically dedicates to providing the public with opportunities to meaningfully engage with Art as part of the Arts Council.

Manjari Dutta, Gallery & Events Assistant

Manjari Dutta has been serving as the Gallery & Events Assistant at WVCAC, since November 2023. She diligently collaborates with the Gallery Manager to curate exhibitions and supports the Executive Director with the biweekly Classical Concert Series, membership acquisition and event coordination, infusing the community with vibrant cultural experiences. As a multidisciplinary artist, she brings a unique perspective to her role, drawing from her background in Fine Arts and experience at Gallery Mcube. With honours such as the Global Health 50/50 Awards, participation in prestigious exhibitions in Kathmandu, Nepal, and volunteering at The Gallery George, Vancouver underscores her commitment to the arts community. She advocates for art accessibility and local talent embracing the belief that arts & culture are essential threads in the fabric of community life at WVCAC.

Azi Yousefi, Art Box Assistant

Azi Yousefi has over 20 years of experience as an animation producer in the children's television industry. She holds a BA in Cinematography, a Master’s in Art, and a Diploma in Digital FX from Capilano University.

Transitioning from a successful career, Azi embarked on a new path by opening the Lillian Gallery in downtown Vancouver in 2017. As the gallery owner, she gained valuable experience managing an art business and supporting local artists.

Azi always stays connected to the spirit of art and artisans through her artwork. She has been a member and an enthusiastic volunteer with the WVCAC at the Silk Purse Art Centre since 2023. As the Art Box Assistant she has the opportunity to assist local artists and share her experience and knowledge within a vibrant art community.

Michael Martino, Financial Advisor (volunteer)

Michael Martino is the past Treasurer of the WVCAC Board of Directors and served on the Board from 2008 to 2023. He is a co-founder of Stratford Underwriting Agency and former Chief Operating Officer.  Prior to joining Stratford, Michael spent two years with Intact Insurance as the VP – Finance for the Western Region and 12 years as the Chief Financial Officer at Canadian Direct Insurance.  Michael moved to Vancouver in July 2003, having previously worked for HSBC’s insurance operation in the United States.  Prior to joining HSBC, Michael worked with Household International, Beneficial Finance Corporation and Coopers and Lybrand.  In addition to 30 years of insurance experience, Michael has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Seton Hall University and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University.  Michael is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors, the Canadian Insurance Accountants Association and Financial Executives International.