Who We Are
Dedicated to empowering nonprofits and underrepresented communities across Canada through the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
Our Mission
Through education, collaboration, and innovation, we aim to enhance organizational capacity, amplify impact, and create a more inclusive and equitable society.
Our Vision
By fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, we envision a future where AI drives meaningful change, strengthens communities, and ensures equitable opportunities for all.
Meet Our Board Members
Dedicated professionals driving our success
Yacouba Traoré
Board Member
With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Yacouba is a passionate advocate for social impact, health equity, and community development. Co-founder of CENA and co-author of 'Understanding and Using AI: A Resource for Nonprofit Leaders'. Currently the Executive Director of the Carlington Community Health Centre.
Deirdre Freiheit
Board Member
Senior Consultant at Vectors Group with 23 years of experience as a former non-profit CEO. Excels in vision articulation, change management, and partnership development. Recognized with the Order of Ottawa and Communicator of the Year.
Rick Nason
Board Member
Associate Professor of Finance at Dalhousie University. Academic work includes researching corporate risk management and complexity science. Author of nine books, including 'It’s Not Complicated: The Art and Science of Complexity in Business'.
Diane Braz Wessman
Board Member
Senior Consultant at Vectors Group with over 25 years of dynamic expertise in entrepreneurship and the not-for-profit sector. Specializes in operational planning, strategic alignment, and revenue diversification across multicultural contexts.
Daniel O. Livvarcin
Board Member
Renowned expert in the nonprofit sector and founder of Vectors Group, specializing in strategic management, risk evaluation, and AI integration. A prolific author and part-time professor advocating for social equity.
Meet Our Team
The people executing our vision every day
Langmia Awah
Marketing Communications & Sales Manager
A strategic communicator and digital growth specialist dedicated to bridging the gap between complex technology and community impact. Drives national outreach initiatives that connect nonprofit leaders with the tools they need to thrive.
Ana Ramirez
Operations Manager
Leads the coordination of internal systems and project workflows. With a background in operations management and a CAPM® certification, she brings a structured, outcomes-focused approach to organizational delivery and workshop planning.
Ahmed Abusafia
Technology Operations Manager
Designs, builds, and maintains the digital systems that support CENA’s programs. Responsible for ensuring internal technology infrastructure is reliable, secure, and aligned with organizational needs to deliver accessible learning initiatives.