Our Team

Staff

Lia Laskaris

Chief Executive Officer

Lia has been with Animal Alliance of Canada for over 20 years, beginning as a dedicated volunteer and now serving as our Chief Executive Officer. From the very start, Lia stepped up wherever she was needed, quickly becoming an indispensable part of the team. Her hard work and leadership have helped our organization grow and achieve significant victories for animals Lia can be reached at the office at 416-462-9541 ext: 0 or through her e-mail: lia@animalalliance.ca

Liz White

Co-Founder and Honourary Director

Liz is a staff member and Honourary Director. She works on legislative matters, with her primary issues including municipal animal control by-laws and hunting issues.

Manager of Research and Education

Manager of Research and Education

Twyla is a full-time staff member, working in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is involved in efforts to pass legislation banning cosmetic animal testing and as an animal research investigator working on issues such as the Department of National Defence’s use of piglets for trauma training. Twyla has worked as the Canadian Head of Investigations for the international organization Animals’ Angels, Canadian-based organizations including Canadians for Ethical Treatment of Farmed Animals (now CETFA Foundation) and the Canadian Horse Defence Coalition, and as the Director of Investigations for Mercy For Animals Canada. She can be reached through her e-mail: twyla@animalalliance.ca

Nicole Sapalovski

Donor Services and Administration

Nicole is a full-time staff member. She handles donor services, administration and general office maintenance. She values interacting with donors, supporters, and the volunteers who contribute so much to the office. Nicole has a degree in education and has worked locally and abroad as a teacher. She worked at Animal Aid Unlimited in India, gaining hands-on experience with animals, and worked at a shelter for two years, which sparked her interest in ethical dog training and compassionate care. She is a new Board Member of the Alberta Force Free Alliance. Since 2018, Nicole has dedicated her free time to the End the Dog Sledding Industry campaign. She’s connected with passionate advocates across Canada and the US, working to make a difference for dogs exploited in this industry. Nicole can be reached at the office at 416-462-9541 ext: 24 or through her e-mail: nicole@animalalliance.ca

Bianca Del Bois

Director of Development and Communications

Bianca is a full-time staff member. With a background as CEO of a marketing and communications consultancy and nearly a decade working in veterinary medicine, Bianca brings a unique blend of skills to her work with Animal Alliance of Canada. She is the founder of a volunteer-based animal welfare organization that focuses on community pet support, veterinary access, and humane animal management programs in partnership with remote First Nations communities. Bianca also serves on the Board of Directors for the Grey Bruce Aboriginal Qimmiq Team (GBAQT), which delivers spay/neuter and wellness clinics in Northern Ontario. A proud volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters Canada, Bianca balances her professional and advocacy work with a deep commitment to mentorship. Her lifelong love for animals and belief in policy-driven change continue to guide her mission to protect and improve the lives of animals across Canada. Bianca can be reached at the office at 416-462-9541 ext: 28 or through her e-mail: bianca@animalalliance.ca

Board Members

Dr. Olivier Berreville

Dr. Olivier Berreville holds a PhD in Biology from Dalhousie University and has been involved with various non-profit animal protection organizations for more than 20 years. He is the Scientific Advisor for Canadians for the Ethical Treatment of Farmed Animals and has been the Canadian National Contact for the International Network for Humane Education since 2003, assisting life science students learn in their chosen field without harming animals. Originally from France, Olivier spent much of his childhood around farmed animals, witnessing not only the complexity of the animals’ lives but also the reality of their exploitation at the hands of humans. Olivier has since conducted dozens of investigations across Canada with a focus on on-farm conditions. His field experience, together with his scientific background, allow him to advocate for animals from a unique perspective. Dr. Berreville does not work out of our main office. Olivier can be reached through his email: olivier@animalalliance.ca

Sinikka Crosland

Sinikka, is a long-time animal activist. She is Executive Director of The Canadian Horse Defence Coalition (based in Westbank, British Columbia) and co-founder, past president and advisor for The Responsible Animal Care Society (based in Kelowna, British Columbia). Sinikka can be reached through her email: sinikka@animalalliance.ca

Barry Kent MacKay

Barry is an Honourary Director for AAC, Zoocheck Canada and a founding member of Species Survival Network. He is an author and artist. Barry assists AAC primarily on various bird and wildlife issues. Barry can be reached through his email: barry@animalalliance.ca

Vicki Van Linden

Vicki works part-time for AAC doing research and writing for our campaigns. Vicki co-founded a grassroots advocacy group called Friends of Captive Animals to advocate for animals confined and exploited for entertainment. She participated for seven years on a citizens’ advisory committee that promotes best practices regarding municipally supported companion animal services and protection of urban wildlife, and remains actively engaged in all municipal matters regarding animals. Vicki also works with London volunteers providing TNR services for community cats. Vicki can be reached through her email: vicki@animalalliance.ca

Volunteers & Supporters

Our work for the animals is not possible without our wonderful volunteers and supporters. Together we are making a difference for animals!