Our Canadian Team

Kelly Hawke Baxter is the current Chair of Tostan International’s Board of Directors and has dedicated the past 25 years to working with nonprofits to bring about systemic social change, with a special focus on strategy and governance. Former Executive Director of The Natural Step Canada, and a journalist and editor by training, Kelly is an engaging speaker, facilitator, and collaborative leader. Kelly holds Masters degrees in both International Development and International Journalism, as well as a Masters certificate in Social Innovation. She lives in Montreal with her husband.

Cynthia is a member of the Order of Canada and has been involved in the direction and governance of nonprofit organizations for most of her life. She is the former vice-president of International Baccalaureate North America and was the founding president of the CODE Foundation, which helps to promote literacy in Africa and South America.

She brings her vast experience and insight to Tostan Canada’s board through her governance expertise in the fields of education, international development, and community development. She has held volunteer positions at an array of organizations including the Community Foundation of Ottawa, Canadian Organization for Development through Education (CODE), and Ashbury College.

Gizanne is the Executive Director at St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre and is a Certified Public and Management Accountant. Her 35 years of business experience have allowed her to develop a passion for innovation, continuous improvement and streamlining processes to operate resourcefully and efficiently.
She has been treasurer of Tostan Canada since 2013 and also sits on the board of Catholic Health International.

Christie has worked with a number of volunteer not-for-profit organizations helping create communication and strategic plans for fundraising success. Christie holds a Communications degree from the University of Ottawa, with extensive work in branding, fundraising, editing and project management. Christie has spent the majority of her professional life working for not-for-profit healthcare organizations and is passionate about human rights and equality. She has a strong work ethic, loves networking, and values great conversation. She currently resides in Long Sault, ON with her husband and 3 sons.

Sophie brings 35 years of Marketing experience to Tostan Canada. Fluently bilingual (French and English) and with a Marketing degree from Queens University, Sophie is a team player with strong organizational skills. Highly driven by results, she is solutions-oriented and efficiency-focused. Motivated by human rights and equality, Sophie is passionate about travel, speaks Spanish and has a curious, adventurous mind. She has 2 adult children and lives in Montreal with her husband.

Jennifer Potts is a seasoned marketing leader with over 20 years of experience in team guidance, brand development, and strategic execution in large companies in the private sector including Bell, Rogers, Cineplex and JPMorgan Chase. Renowned for her vibrant and empathetic leadership style, she specializes in creating impactful brand awareness initiatives and revenue-generating programs. A graduate of York University with an Honours B.A. in Mass Communications and English, Jennifer is currently dedicated to community service and actively supports local initiatives and international sustainable development. She serves on the Board of Directors for Tostan Canada and St. Felix Centre in Toronto, where she continues to make a positive impact in her community.