Appointee Biographies

KARIM N. KANJI

Karim N. Kanji is a seasoned real estate executive specializing in asset and property management across office, retail, multifamily, and senior care sectors. With deep expertise in acquisition, financing, leasing, construction, and repositioning strategies, which drives value across domestic and international portfolios. He is also responsible for U.S. operations that own and manage a multifamily portfolio in the southeast. Karim was honored as a 2024 EY Canada Entrepreneur of the Year finalist (Ontario) and recipient of the 2025 King Charles III Coronation Award for outstanding contributions to Canadian society.

CASEY ANTOLAK

Casey Antolak is active in business, technology, government, and social sectors as an executive, advisor, participant, and advocate. For 20 years, he held senior leadership roles at a top global bank, employing strategic, transformational, stakeholder-aligned, and results-oriented mindsets to appointments. He is committed to serving causes, advising technology & start-up ventures, participating in public policy & political process, and serving as a Board member with several national & community-based organizations. Graduate of Western University, completed continuing studies at Duke University & Queen’s University, and is an alumnus of the Governor General’s Leadership Conference. He has been an invited guest to World Bank & IMF meetings and participated on a FinTech & AI technology Trade Mission bringing Canadian companies to the UK. Casey brings an innovative, well-rounded, global perspective to decision making, and a commitment to growing shared prosperity through nation-building.

ALEX ROBINSON

Alexander Robinson is Director of Strategic Support, Canadian Banking, Scotiabank, and a former Operations Manager for Wittington Properties Limited. He is a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.

HEATHER STELZER

Heather Stelzer is a business manager for Stelzer Professional Medical Corp, and formerly in Business Development for PEAK Benefit Solutions and Terry Windrem Insurance. Heather’s community involvement includes serving as a board member for the Canadian Canoe Museum.

STEVEN WOODHEAD

Steven Woodhead is the Director of Public Affairs at Rogers Communications. His community involvement includes formerly serving as a member of Communications for Royal Commonwealth Society (Ottawa).

TOVAH BAROCAS-TAPP

It was while attending post-secondary in Toronto as a student from the US, Tovah Barocas-Tapp developed a passionate connection with the Canadian landscape. As her love for conservation and the environment grew, her forward thinking mindset had her looking for an opportunity to make a difference. Since joining Earth Rangers in 2009 and being appointed President in 2019, Tovah has contributed to shaping the organization’s innovative vision. Throughout her tenure, she has developed countless partnerships and programs that helped grow Earth Rangers into the largest kids’ conservation organization in the world. In 2021, Tovah co-authored a white paper on eco-anxiety in kids and outlined a list of compelling recommendations to address this growing issue. Tovah also serves on the Board of Project Learning Tree Canada. Tovah is a graduate of the University of Toronto and began her career in the film industry.

JOHN DRECHSLER

John Drechsler is a former provincial park superintendent and park operational manager. His community involvement includes serving as a Vice-Chairperson and member for Friends of Sandbanks Provincial Park.

NIRAN JEYANESAN

Niran is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the police service, security management and community outreach. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships with diverse communities, focusing on fostering public safety, supporting vulnerable populations, and advocating for meaningful community engagement. With a proven track record in strategic leadership, crisis management and policy development, Niran is passionate about creating positive change and bringing people together to drive impactful solutions.

ROGER GINGERICH

Roger Gingerich is a visionary leader, connector, and advocate for Canada’s creative industries. With over four decades in fashion, film, and the arts, he has become a respected champion of innovation, collaboration, and emerging talent. As Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian International Fashion Film Festival (CANIFFF) and its global arm Fashion.Film, Roger bridges cultures through storytelling and design. A board member of the Commonwealth Fashion Council (UK), he advances education and creative diplomacy across 56 nations. A frequent voice on CBC and professor in Toronto, he mentors the next generation of creatives. Recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award in Fashion, Roger continues to shape Canada’s cultural and economic identity through his belief in the transformative power of creativity.