Terra relies on volunteers, financial and in-kind donations to offer services and support our teen parents.
At Terra, our specialized team tailors programs and services to meet the needs of each teen parent. Always safe, never judgemental. Learn more about what we have to offer our young families.
The Board of Directors advances and safeguards Terra’s mission. The Board is responsible for long-term strategic planning and direction. It defines Terra’s organizational culture, values and operating principles. The Board works as team with the Executive Director who manages operations.
Now recruiting for Terra’s 2026 Board of Directors
A strategic leader inspired to achieve organizational outcomes through progressive and people-centric strategies. I am a passionate promoter of the Human Resources profession and its role shaping culture, enhancing the employee experience, and driving organizational performance. I am a collaborator and creative thinker experienced in leading transformation projects and change initiatives. I have led a diverse portfolio of teams including Human Resources, Health and Safety, Facilities, and Materials Management. I currently work for the Edmonton Police Service as the Executive Director, Human Resources Division.
John has been in Construction Management for almost two decades and currently looks after Business Development and Estimating for a mid-sized Commercial General Contractor. “Never stop learning and never stop playing”, is John’s personal mantra. He balances his leisure time with artistic pursuits (painting, woodwork, writing, playing guitar, etc.) with his blended family of children and grandchildren.
Before joining MacEwan University’s Bachelor of Early Childhood Curriculum Studies Program as an assistant professor, Dr. Cankaya worked with PolicyWise for Children & Families as a research scientist. She was part of a research team working on issues, policies and practices affecting Alberta’s children by linking and analyzing cross-governmental, administrative data. Some of her other past work experiences consisted of working as a long-term consultant at UNESCO Institute for Statistics and as a kindergarten teacher in Thailand. Dr. Cankaya is passionate about contributing to the happiness and health of children through her teaching and research. Currently, she serves on the board of the Terra Centre and is a member of the Edmonton Council for Early Learning and Child Care (ECELC).
coming soon
Daniel is a CPA and Senior Manager at Mowbrey Gil LLP, where he provides a full range of professional services to individuals and businesses—including tax planning, compliance, and financial reporting. In addition to his client work, he contributes to the firm’s growth through recruitment and business development. Daniel also brings extensive experience in youth leadership, having supervised and mentored young staff in camp and community-based programs. He is passionate about creating supportive, inclusive environments where young people can thrive.
Amjad has been involved in volunteerism and grassroots efforts in Alberta for over 20 years. Before attending law school, he spent 4 consecutive summers supporting youth leadership initiatives in Aboriginal communities in northern Alberta including Trout Lake, Heart Lake, Kikino Metis Settlement, and Janvier. Presently, Amjad is employed as Risk Management Counsel for PCL Construction.
Jennifer is trusted leader and accomplished strategist with more than two decades working in public relations, communications, marketing, stakeholder relations, and community engagement. She serves as Associate Vice-President (Marketing & Communications) at NAIT. Committed to community service, in addition to her work with the Terra Centre board, Jennifer is active as a cabinet member with United Way of the Alberta Capital Region as well as Rotary.
Marni Pearce, PhD, is the Director of School and Community Supports with Alberta Education. Her work involves collaborating with government and community partners on a variety of initiatives to ensure that Alberta’s vulnerable children, youth and families are safe, healthy and successful at learning. She has over 20 years of teaching experience – in both K-Grade 12 and post-secondary settings. Marni has also been a school counselor and community-based researcher. She has published numerous journal articles and is a co-author of the book, Composing Diverse Identities: Narrative inquiries into the interwoven lives of children and teachers. Marni is also a co-founder of mentoringcanada.ca
Amy, a powerhouse in the banking world for nearly two decades, invigorates every role she embraces! She's a dynamic leader who cultivates thriving teams, passionately shares her extensive financial wisdom to empower individuals on their journeys, and embodies an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Currently, she holds the role of Manager of Financial Services at Peace Hills Trust. Beyond the office, Amy channels her vibrant energy into cherished family time, ignites passion as she teaches and practices yoga, devours books with boundless enthusiasm, and joyfully plays with her beloved rescue pups.
Interested in joining us? Send us a resume!