Library board

Brendan Harvey (he/him), Board chair

Brendan is an employment and human rights lawyer on the North Shore, called to the bar in 2014. Brendan believes that accessible public libraries are an important part of a strong community, providing a public gathering space, accessible learning resources, and access to various means of entertainment and education for everyone. An avid outdoor enthusiast, you can find Brendan in any season hiking the North Shore mountains or exploring closer to home along the Spirit Trail and beyond.

“I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to, and help to expand on, the City’s library system.”

Rubina Jamal, Vice chair

Rubina has lived on the North Shore since she immigrated with her family in 1993. She is a graduate of the London School of Economics and practiced law in Kenya and British Columbia. Rubina cares deeply about our relationship to food: for the past decade, she has advocated for changes in the food system and worked with community-based organizations to improve access to healthy food. She has served on several boards, including for Royal Roads University and the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.

“I am excited to be engaged in the community through the library.”

Amir Hazfi, Finance chair

Amir is a federal government employee who spends time volunteering with the Whistler Film Festival, Bonsai Club and the North Vancouver Writers Club. He is also regularly involved with the North Shore Multicultural Society and Presentation House Theatre. He is excited to learn about the ways the library is a dynamic and integral part of people’s lives on the North Shore.

“My family and I use the North Vancouver City Library as a part of our home so I believe everybody has a role — I do my best to keep our home cozy and functional.”

Tony Valente, City Council representative

Tony is in his second term on City Council. He has been active in our community as an advocate for street safety, public spaces, and on environmental issues (air quality and urban noise) since the late 2000s. Tony holds a BCom and MBA from the UBC Sauder School of Business. In addition to his role as a City Councillor, Tony works in project delivery with a Crown Corporation, where he is leading a team focused on improving the accessibility, sustainability and hospitality of two key venues in Vancouver. 
  
"The library provides the knowledge and opportunities for skill development that are key to enabling a more just society"

Hazel Allan (she/her), Trustee 

Hazel is a strategic communications professional with a focus on digital content, stakeholder engagement, and issues management. She has worked in a number of sectors including Indigenous government, non-profits, healthcare and defence. A recent North Shore resident, Hazel is an avid traveler and has been fortunate to live (and use libraries) in several countries around the globe.

"I'm so pleased to join the Board and look forward to advocating for the library and the services it offers the City's residents."

Rebecca Bouchard (she/her), Trustee

Rebecca is a Strategy Partner at the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). She lives with her husband, Brent, two daughters, Molly and Claire, and their cats (Sir Paws and French Fry!), just down the street from the library. Her first encounter with City Library was as a study sanctuary when she was studying for her MBA with a newborn in tow. When she's not at the library you can find Rebecca enjoying the outdoors – hiking, skiing, or jumping in the ocean any time of year.

“I have always been drawn to books and libraries, and now as a trustee I love finding out about all the additional programs and services offered at City Library.”

Duncan Brown, Trustee

Duncan has extensive experience working in national and global labour organizations, multi-stakeholder industry organizations, pension and benefit plans, and non-profit and charitable organizations. He has collaborated with labour, community, and women's organizations and has overseen decent work projects on every continent. Duncan holds degrees in communications and law. He recently completed a six-year term on the Capilano University Board of Governors, serving as Board Chair, and is currently President of the North Shore Tennis Society. He is an avid reader, hiker, cyclist, tennis player, and world traveler.

"I learned the value of books and libraries at a young age from my mother, who worked at municipal and school libraries here in North Vancouver."

Eva Luptakova (she/her), Trustee

Eva came to Canada from Slovakia at 19 to learn English and get to know a different culture. She has since completed her education and established a career. She is passionate about Human Resources and currently works in the human resources department at Vancouver Coastal Health as a recruitment adviser. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family. 

“Being on the Library Board has helped me better understand how essential the library is to our community. North Vancouver City Library is my favourite place on the North Shore, and I visit it at least twice a week.”

Parveen Somji, Trustee

Parveen was born in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania where she completed her primary schooling. She has had a varied career working as a nurse, midwife, ward sister, nursing instructor, support worker and chef. She’s active on many library committees and volunteer organizations on the North Shore including the North Shore Folkfest Society, the North Shore Homelessness Task Force and many others. She also participates in many celebratory community events including North Shore parades and the Caribbean Day Festival.
 
“My role as a trustee made it possible for me to use the resources at the library and expand my knowledge profoundly. I really enjoy working with such dedicated and passionate team of trustees."

Zeyus Spenta, Student Advisory Trustee

Zeyus is a high school student who has lived in North Vancouver all his life. An avid library user, Zeyus appreciates the value of the library's wonderful services and programs. He looks forward to providing a youth perspective and voice on the Library Board. 
  
"I believe North Vancouver City Library is a vital and inclusive hub for our community. City Library is truly a beacon of education, cultural enrichment, and community engagement."