Terra Team

Albert joined Terra in 2016 as a Development Manager responsible for managing the development and implementation of projects in consultation with Terra principals and staff. Prior to joining Terra, Albert engaged in delivering market research and feasibility analysis for mixed-use and commercial projects in both the public and private sectors. Albert is an Urban Geography graduate of the University of British Columbia, where he specialized in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and completed a post graduate diploma in Urban Land Economics. Albert is a member of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, an advisory body of volunteers appointed by Vancouver City Council with a broad mandate to consider and advise Council on matters relating to the future of Vancouver. He is an active Urban Land Institute of B.C. member, serving as co-chair of the events programming committee, and also volunteers his time with Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.

Amber joined Terra in 2021, providing reception and administrative assistant duties. Hers is usually the first face you see when arriving at Terra’s offices.  Amber has previous experience as a receptionist at Lu’ma Native Housing Society where she worked with the public and tracked applications for housing. Amber also has previous experience working in a veterinary clinic and in the catering field.

Andrew joined Terra Housing in 2019 as a development manager and became a partner in 2023. He is responsible for multiple social purpose projects in various stages of development and is actively involved throughout the lifespan of the real estate development process, including origination and feasibility planning, municipal and lending approvals, design development, construction, and close-out of projects.

Andrew was the development manager responsible for successfully delivering two BC Housing funded housing projects for the Aboriginal Land Trust Society, a 96-unit building New Westminster which completed in 2024, and a 124-unit building in Colwood which completed in 2021. His project portfolio presently spans across the Lower Mainland and Interior regions and includes complex multi-stakeholder housing and mixed-use projects.

Previously Andrew worked for six years as a commercial real estate appraiser in Vancouver, establishing specialized experience with multi-family residential property valuations and rental development projects.

Andrew holds a Master of Urban Studies degree from Simon Fraser University and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Queen’s University. He sat on the Board of the First United Church Social Housing Society which operated several buildings in the Downtown Eastside and Mt. Pleasant, and in early 2023 transferred ownership to Sch’eyk Housing Society. He has also previously volunteered with the SFU Urban Studies Alumni Council, City of Vancouver, SFU, and Urban Land Institute events.

Christian joined Terra in 2013 with extensive experience in project management, construction and property management as well as in banking and financial services. Christian’s responsibilities include participating in strategic planning, implementing strategic goals and objectives as approved by the Board of Directors, product development and improvement, marketing and sales, service delivery, staff supervision, financial control of approved budgets and corporate governance, compliance and risk management.

Previously, Christian was a Project Officer for PCI group specializing in large, mixed-use urban developments, including the residential, retail and office developments at King George Station and Marine Gateway. He provided project management and site co-ordination for the ITC Group, with projects at UBC and the Olympic Athletes Village in Vancouver. Other positions include Coordinator for COHO Management Services, the management arm of CHF BC and Maintenance Manager for the Greater Vancouver Floating Home Co-operative. Christian also spent more than 10 years at TD Bank, as, among other positions, Manager of Independent Business.

Christian completed the Construction Supervision Program and Construction Operations Program at BCIT. He received at BA in Economics and International Development from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax.

 

Chris joined Terra in 2015. She is responsible for overseeing the reliable operation of Terra’s computer systems and servers and actively resolves problems and issues with computer and server systems to limit work disruptions within the company and supports Terra’s development managers with various administrative functions.

Previously, Chris worked as a Franchisee Field Representative for Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. She also owned and operated her own Rocky Mountain Store and an inkjet refill business. Chris’ background is in business management, franchisee support, accounting and retail marketing. She graduated from Kwantlen Polytechnic University with a Diploma in Fine Arts and is currently enrolled at the University of Emily Carr and is working towards her MFA.

Chris is a Long-Distance swimmer, with a triathlon coaching designation and enjoys coaching part-time and helping new athletes.

Dan Watson is a development manager with extensive experience helping clients to navigate complex development and approvals processes in municipalities across British Columbia. Dan’s experience includes project management, technical urban planning, stakeholder engagement, and government relations. Dan’s work is driven by the need to improve affordability, equity, sustainability, and wellbeing in our communities.

Currently serving as President of the Board of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of British Columbia (ANHBC), Dan he has been volunteering with ANHBC since 2016. Dan holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Alberta and a Master of Planning Degree from the University of Calgary. Dan is a Registered Professional Planner with the Planning Institute of BC and a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners.

Juliet joined Terra in 2023, assuming the role of Development Coordinator where she actively oversees the development and execution of projects in collaboration with Terra partners and staff.

In her professional journey, She dedicated a year to serving as a Development Coordinator at Atira Women’s Resource Society. Prior to that, she accumulated valuable experience as an Intern Architect and Architectural Technologist in Calgary.

Juliet’s educational background is comprehensive, featuring a Post-degree Diploma in Project Management from Douglas College, a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Technology and Construction Management from VIA University College, Denmark, and an Architectural Technology diploma from SAIT, Calgary. Juliet is deeply passionate about affordable housing.

Kate is a principal and founder of Terra Lumina Life Lease which developed two seniors life lease projects in BC. She is the author of “The Magic of Life Lease: A Seniors Housing Solution for the 21st Century” and “The Future of Seniors’ Housing: Planning, Building and Operating Successful Seniors Housing Projects.” Kate has worked to grow Lumina Services to its present status as a leading Canadian provider of valuable market studies and financial feasibility analyses in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors and recommendations for turning around underperforming projects. Lumina is the only Canadian member of the Village to Village Network, the international association of virtual retirement communities.

Kate is a frequent presenter at industry events, including the BC Senior Living Association’s 2013 annual conference and the 23nd Annual John K. Friesen Conference “Housing Alternatives for an Aging Population.” Kate is also one of the founders of inSite Housing, Hospitality and Health Services Inc., a large BC based service provider in the supportive housing, assisted living and long term care industry.

Kate is a member of the Canadian Association on Gerontology, the Gerontological Society of America, BC Seniors Living Association, BC Non-Profit Housing Association and the Mortgage Investment Association of B.C. She sits on the Board of Bethshan Gardens, a not-for-profit project in Cloverdale.

Kelly joined Terra in 2017. She brings over 20 years’ experience in both the public and private community development sectors. Kelly has demonstrated passion to provide fair opportunities and real economic solutions in the provision of community housing. With a background in architectural design, strategic planning, development, finance, operations, governance, change management and community building, Kelly leads diversified project teams to find successful solutions for complex housing, corporate and community development challenges. She has been involved with the development of more than 2,000 units of housing, community spaces, hospitals, commercial buildings and has worked with a variety of non-profit organizations.

Kelly holds a double master’s degree from New York University: a Master in Real Estate Finance and Investment and Master in Business Administration as well as a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture. She is currently certified as a Technician Aboriginal Economic Developer (TAED) from the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officer (Cando).

Kelly is also the Executive Director of Tofino Housing Corporation, a District of Tofino-owned housing authority that aims to provide safe and affordable housing. She volunteers at the Women of UDI (Urban Development Institute,) a Board of Director at Association of Neighbourhood Houses BC, and is a long time volunteer with Vancouver Adaptive SnowSports as a ski instructor teaching people with disabilities.

Lydia joined Terra as a Development Coordinator in 2024, bringing her passion for people-centered solutions to her work coordinating Terra projects in northern BC.

Lydia immigrated to Canada from Aotearoa (New Zealand), and now lives on the traditional, unceded Wet’suwet’en territory in Smithers, BC, with her husband and two children. Lydia’s professional experience includes public policy, communications, capacity building for non-profit organizations, and advancing culturally safe affordable housing for Indigenous communities.

Lydia has a BA from Otago University (NZ) and a Master of Arts from Royal Roads University, where her postgraduate research focused on intervention design and the connections between trauma and housing insecurity. Outside of work, Lydia writes, illustrates, and enjoys outdoor adventures with her family.

Manuela joined Terra in 2013. She is well versed in the construction claims process, GP, Vivid and Terra’s development management processes. Manuela trains new claims staff and is the senior client and funder liaison.

Previously, Manuela worked as a bookkeeper and administrative assistant and has an extensive background in retail management. She graduated from CDI in 2005 with a Diploma in Accounting & Payroll Administration and certification as a payroll supervisor for levels I & II.

Manuela enjoys sewing, traveling, and collecting modern mid-century furniture and has an obsession with collecting Vintage Lady Head Vases

Natalie joined Terra as Office Manager in 2024, where she oversees daily office operations and enhances the employee experience by promoting workplace diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

With over 10 years of experience in managing office environments, employee engagement, and administrative processes, Natalie brings a strong background in creating efficient and supportive workplaces. She is committed to cultivating environments that promote both employee satisfaction and operational effectiveness.

Originally from the UK, Natalie is a settler now residing on the ancestral, traditional, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, known as Vancouver, BC where she has managed office environments for Space Alpha Insights and RHN CPA.

Prior to settling on Turtle Island, Natalie lived in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), where she worked for Emirates as a flight attendant. During her time with the airline, she had the privilege of traveling the world for a living and working alongside a diverse team of colleagues from over 140 different nationalities who spoke more than 130 languages. This experience deepened her appreciation for cultural diversity and shaped her passion for fostering inclusive environments.

Natalie holds an Associate of Environmental Studies from Douglas College and has completed the Anti-Racism Micro-Certificate from the University of British Columbia. Outside of work, she volunteers as a retail assistant at My Sister’s Closet, which supports survivors of intimate partner violence, and enjoys being immersed in nature and traveling.

Philip joined Terra Housing in 2021 as a Development Manager responsible for managing the development and implementation of social purpose projects in consultation with Terra principals and staff. Prior to joining Terra Housing, Philip worked as a commercial real estate appraiser in the Lower Mainland conducting a wide range of consulting assignments for residential and commercial properties which included development sites, office buildings, multi-family, retail and industrial properties. Philip was awarded the use of the professional designation AACI, P.App (Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute) by the Appraisal Institute of Canada in 2017. He holds a Diploma in Urban Land and Economics (DULE) from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business and a Bachelor of Technology from Ryerson University. Philip also served as a board member of the South Hill Business Improvement Association

Rachel joined Terra Housing as Proposal and Communication Coordinator in 2023. Her work includes coordination of funding proposals and graphic design. Trained in architecture with experience in housing advocacy, co-housing, and non-profit housing management, Rachel is passionate about housing affordability, establishing community within disconnected cities, and social change.

She holds a Masters in Architecture from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelors Degree in Art + Design. Her creativity is widespread in both analog and digital mediums such as painting, weaving, photography, illustration and layout design. Raised in the prairies, Rachel has a growing love of the ocean and enjoys kayaking and scuba diving in her spare time.

Ranj joined Terra in 2021 and currently serves as a Development Manager. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of projects, working closely with Terra’s principals and staff.

Prior to his tenure at Terra, Ranj worked as a Project Manager for various construction projects across the Lower Mainland, where he managed the entire construction process.

Ranj holds a Diploma in Urban Land Economics (DULE) and a Bachelor of Business in Real Estate (BBRE), both from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. He has also earned the RI designation from the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia and holds the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification from the Project Management Institute.

Rasoul joined Terra in 2019. He provides support to the company and development managers throughout the development and construction process with a focus on supporting construction claims, budgeting, cashflows and financial reporting and other administrative aspects of projects ensuring they are successfully initiated and completed.

Rasoul brings over 10 years of extensive experience in project accounting in a wide variety of industries and projects. He has a thorough understanding of project contracts, project workflow and project finance from feasibility studies to budgeting, cost control, cashflow management, financial controls, financial and management reports. He is adept at streamlining financial processes and financial analysis. Rasoul holds an MBA degree and a CPA designation.

As Development Manager at Terra, Rebecca is responsible for managing the development and implementation of social purpose projects in consultation with principals and staff. An enthusiastic Development Manager and Project Management Professional, she joined Terra in 2024.

Rebecca leverages her development management and construction experience in the public sector to build non-market housing and support affordable housing providers. She has 6 years experience in the real estate development industry. Projects include townhomes, multifamily, mixed-use wood frame apartments, and highrise concrete towers. Working with non-profits, First Nations, municipalities, churches, and housing providers to deliver affordable housing. Rebecca has overseen projects from schematic design, permitting, to construction, occupancy, warranty and closeout.

She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Capilano University, a Certificate in Architectural and Building Technology from BCIT, is currently enrolled in the Graduate Diploma in Urban Land Economics (DULE) at UBC Sauder, and is a licensed Project Management Professional (PMP).

As Terra’s advisor, Riitta oversees GST and Insurance matters, and provides support under the direction of the Director of Finance, CEO and  Office Manager, in the areas of MC2 Anywhere, staff training and any special projects as identified.

Riitta has been with Terra since 1992 in many different roles providing support and growth for the company.   Riitta completed the Real Estate Salesperson and Sub-Mortgage Broker’s course, and the Property Management Pre‑Licensing Course at UBC, becoming a licensed property manager, and some accounting courses. Previously, Riitta worked in insurance, criminal justice and social services

Rob has been with Terra since 1989 in a variety of lead and supportive roles including development manager, property manager and research assistant. Rob is responsible for managing all aspects of the project development process, from feasibility to final occupancy. He brings many strengths to Terra, including quality control, client relations, project documentation, research, proposal writing, financial modeling, contract negotiation, and leadership/mentorship with other Terra development managers. Rob has also worked part time for non-profit housing societies, assisting them with development and property management activities.

Rob is very active in the volunteer sector and has sat on over 20 boards and 60 committees in the housing, environmental and arts sectors. Currently, he is President of the Oarlock and Sail Wooden Boat Society. In 2008, he received a Vancouver Mayor’s Arts Award in the Support for the Arts for his volunteerism. He completed two years of the Urban Land Economics Program and the Property Management Pre-Licensing Course at UBC, and graduated from Dalhousie University with a B.Sc.

Shamir joined Terra as a development manager in 2002. He is a certified Project Management Professional who brings experience in law, construction safety, development and renovation. He has also been involved with a wide range of arts, community and charitable non-profits.

Shamir has a long history of community activity including co‑founding the Seed to Sky gardening club, volunteering as a Master Gardener with VanDusen Botanical Gardens, actively participating on the Riley Park South Cambie CityPlan Visions Steering Committee and serving on the boards of the Little Mountain Neighbourhood House and the Riley Park Community Association.

He holds a B.A. and a J.D. from the University of Calgary and a Masters Certificate in Project Management from the University of Victoria. His projects have involved complex financial and feasibility analyses, sensitive public processes, facilitation among a range of professionals and other stakeholders and a range of technical construction issues.

Simon joined Terra in 1998 and has been a principal of Terra Social Purpose Real Estate since 2003 with specialized expertise in deal origination for social housing development. He oversees all Terra development work in British Columbia. Simon has specialized expertise in deal origination and project delivery of social housing development. He is also the co-founder and Vice-President of Lu’ma Development Management as well as a partner and Director of Development of Terra Lumina Life Lease Inc.

Simon is frequently sought as a guest speaker and panelist at housing conferences, addressing topics including financing for social purpose real estate projects and innovative partnerships.

Simon graduated from Queen’s University with a BA in Urban Geography. He holds a Certificate in Real Estate Appraisal from Langara College in Vancouver and has completed professional development courses at UBC and MIT.

Stephen is a principal and founder of Terra Lumina Life Lease and developed two seniors life lease projects in British Columbia prior to returning to school for his Masters of Real Estate Development from Columbia University in the City of New York. Since returning to Vancouver he has spearheaded the development of the Affordable Leasehold Homeownership model (generated from his Master’s thesis) and has been its chief architect.

Stephen has over twelve years of experience working in real estate market research and development and he holds a diploma in Marketing and Sales Management from the Sauder School of Business, a Certificate in Urban Design from SFU, and received his Honors Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto.

One of the founding principals of Terra Social Purpose Real Estate, Stuart has worked in social housing and community development in B.C. and internationally for over 35 years, helping dozens of community organizations, governments and others conceptualize and implement affordable housing projects. Stuart has served in leadership roles for several community housing associations and agencies, including the Co-operative Housing Federation, Co-operative Housing Programs Administration Agency, and COHO Management Services Society. In 2013, he was named an Honorary Lifetime Associate by the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada.

Stuart completed the International Housing Finance Program at the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania. He has extensive post-graduate training in research design and data analysis and has held several contract positions as a program evaluation research director.

Stuart holds a BA in Psychology from the UBC and completed their Mortgage Brokers course. He is a member of the Canadian Association of Business Economists and the International Union for Housing Finance.