Giselle LaCounte
Marketing Coordinator, Digital and Web, BCIT
Giselle LaCounte joined the Burnaby Board of Trade in May 2026 and is excited to contribute to the Women's Advisory Committee. As the Marketing Coordinator, Digital and Web for BCIT's School of Construction and the Environment, she works closely with industry, students, and community partners to promote workforce development, innovation, and opportunities within the STEAM, and skilled trades sector.
A passionate advocate for underrepresented groups, Giselle has supported initiatives through BCIT's ConnectHER Hub that create pathways, mentorship, and community for women and gender-diverse individuals in the trades. As the mother of two daughters, she is committed to helping build strong support networks that empower women and girls to succeed.
Giselle brings a collaborative, community-focused perspective and is passionate about advancing inclusion, leadership, and opportunity across Burnaby's business community.
Jemia Zagiel
Pacific Ropes Contracting Ltd.
Jemia Fong-Zagiel is the Co-Owner and Director of Business Development at Pacific Ropes Contracting, a Western Canadian industrial services company that completes critical repair and maintenance work in complex places. With expertise in business development, marketing, and organizational leadership, she is passionate about growing businesses, developing people, and building strong relationships.
As an entrepreneur and mother of two, Jemia understands the realities of balancing leadership, growth, and family. She joined the Burnaby Board of Trade Women in Business Advisory Committee to support and connect women leaders, contribute diverse perspectives, and help create opportunities for the next generation of professionals. She brings a collaborative, practical approach grounded in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community building.
Jenny Win
Principal and Managing Broker, Oakwyn Realty Northwest
Jenny Wun is a Managing Broker and Brokerage Owner with over two decades of real estate, sales, and leadership experience. A long-time champion of Burnaby’s business community, she joined the BBOT Women’s Advisory Committee to help elevate women leaders and inclusive, people-first workplaces. Jenny is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders, fostering collaboration between entrepreneurs, and creating spaces where diverse voices are heard and supported.
Karen Alko
ABC Recycling
Karen is a proud fourth-generation member of her family enterprise ABC Recycling, Western Canada's largest metal recycling company. She directs and supports the family enterprise development activities, and is a passionate advocate for the growth and well-being of family enterprise. As a long-standing member of the BBOT, ABC team members have been involved at the Board level and on various committees. Karen is passionate about supporting women in business through education, mentorship, and connection. In 2025, she named one of Family Business Magazine's Transformational Women in Family Business.
Karen Chang
CEO, Umbrella Consulting
Karen Chang is the CEO of Umbrella Consulting, bringing 20+ years of expertise in ERP and business systems consulting. A proud Burnaby Board of Trade member since 2020, Karen has been recognized as a finalist for Businessperson of the Year in 2021, 2022, and 2024, and Business of the Year in 2024 at the Burnaby Business Excellence Awards. Umbrella Consulting is deeply rooted in the local community, supporting Burnaby businesses and contributing to charitable initiatives including the Burnaby Neighbourhood House. Karen is passionate about empowering women in business and fostering a thriving businesswomen's community. As a member of the Women Advisory Committee, she is committed to championing women entrepreneurs and driving meaningful change for women across the business landscape.
Lisa Archer
Founder & Lead Consultant, Zing Strategy
Lisa Archer is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Zing Strategy, where she helps organizations strengthen their people, culture, and long-term business strategies. With more than 20 years of experience in human resources, leadership, hospitality, and consulting, Lisa has worked with organizations across the private, public, non-profit, and Indigenous sectors. As an entrepreneur, coach, and working mother, she is passionate about empowering women to lead with confidence, build meaningful careers, and create businesses that align with their values and goals. Lisa joined the Burnaby Board of Trade Women’s Advisory Committee to contribute her experience, support the advancement of women in business, and help foster a strong, inclusive, and connected business community.
Monika Verma
Executive Director, Dixon Transition Society
For 3 decades, Monika Verma had been an accomplished nonprofit executive leader advancing the safety, well-being, and empowerment of women, children, and families. As Executive Director of Dixon Transition Society, she leads innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and advocacy initiatives that strengthen supports for families impacted by violence. A respected voice for gender equity, professional ethics, and social justice, Monika has dedicated her career to creating lasting change. Her leadership has been recognized with numerous honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Shakti Award for Leadership and Empowerment of Women, the SEEDS Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Times of Canada Social Services Award. She remains committed to building inclusive, resilient communities where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
Monique Nelson
Director of Community Engagement, posAbilities Association of British Columbia
Monique Nelson is the Director of Community Engagement for posAbilities, a multi-regional non-profit community living service provider. Her experience spans communications, engagement, and family leadership, specifically in the disability movement. Since 2011, Monique has volunteered for the Greater Vancouver and Burnaby Boards of Trade, the City of Burnaby’s Social Planning Committee, the BC Non-Profit Housing Association and several other housing organizations. She is passionate about building inclusive communities where everyone belongs, and thrives. Monique offers the perspective of a senior leader who has decades of experience balancing her career with daily caregiving responsibilities to this group. She hopes that through her insights and connections, she can open doors for others.
Nelofar Maleqazghar
Regional Manager TD Women in Enterprise, TD Bank
With two decades in the financial services industry, I have had the privilege of working with many inspiring entrepreneurs. In my current role as Regional Manager for Women in Enterprise, I supports women entrepreneurs by listening to their needs, connecting them to resources, and providing guidance through our dedicated team of Women in Enterprise Account Managers at TD. I would like to take this opportunity and join this committee to support the women entrepreneurs in my local market, add value by connecting them to resources to help their business succeed. I have been involved with Burnaby Board of Trade for over a decade through TD Bank and have supported and participated in many different events to support the business community.