CIC Vancouver

Luthfi Dhofier (he/him) is a public policy and applied research practitioner with experience working in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Luthfi lived in Indonesia during the Asian financial crisis and saw the country’s transformation from a military dictatorship regime into a democracy, an experience that shaped his interests in international affairs and public policy. He is currently a policy analyst at the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) where he works with governments and communities across Canada to address a wide range of policy issues such as economic development, housing, and transportation. Luthfi is also a Co-founder and Executive Director of Global Water Rights, a non-profit organization with a mission to research and educate the public about rights to water and sustainable water management. He has contributed to National Observer, The Vancouver Sun, The Hill Times, the Hamilton Spectator, and more. Luthfi holds a Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs from the University of British Columbia.

Elmer Dy Salvador is an entrepreneur, researcher, public policy professional and longtime community volunteer to various local and international non-profit organizations. He considers himself a global citizen and thus, has taken the lessons and experiences he’s had while living, working and traveling abroad to inform his worldview. Elmer believes that there are positive examples that can be found all over the world that can serve as guides for policymaking to solve some of our most difficult challenges here at home. He holds a dual MSc. degree in Public Policy and Human Development from Maastricht University and the United Nations University.

Gabriele is driven by her curiosity. While this curiosity is not limited to global affairs, she is also fascinated by ancient history, living things, human nature, and what lies beyond the cosmos. This curiosity led to her becoming a biologist with extensive experience in research, managing projects, and education. Holding a M.Sc. from the University of Toronto, she is also an avid community volunteer. Gabriele is eager to bring her broad experiences working with diverse groups internationally, in addition to her insatiable curiosity to CIC Vancouver. She believes that engaging different perspectives in discussion on key issues helps foster meaningful change and essential community awareness. When Gabriele is not down a Wikipedia rabbit hole, you are likely to find her exploring the outdoors, painting, or trying every restaurant in the city.

Tyler Yan is a seasoned technology professional who has helped private and public organizations in North America, Europe, and Asia to strategically build and expand their firms through digital solutions. In this capacity, Tyler has also assisted various organizations in improving their accounting and financial practices. Born and raised in Vancouver, he had the opportunity to work and volunteer abroad, and ultimately spark an appreciation for international affairs. Tyler looks forward to ensuring the prolonged financial health of our council through transparent and responsible fiscal planning.

Christy (she/her) is a third-year student studying Political Science (Honours) at UBC. Her experiences working as a research assistant on a project examining media coverages of ethnic conflict and coordinating an undergraduate policy competition, combined with her own international background, have helped her to develop unique interests in identity politics, democracy, and media literacy. Christy looks forward to delivering inclusive communications and representing students’ passion and interests in international affairs.

Michael is a second year student at the University of British Columbia. He is studying Political Science with a minor in Law and Society. He is from Rhode Island, on the east coast of the United States. Michael has contributed to the UBC Arts Undergraduate Society, the Ubyssey newspaper, and the Student Legal Fund Society at UBC. He learned about the Vancouver branch of the Canadian International Council while participating in the 2022 Canadian Undergraduate Policy Competition. He is excited to help CIC Vancouver’s administrative needs, and looks forward to the events the branch will throw. He encourages all students of any background to join the CIC Vancouver branch, as it is a great learning and volunteer opportunity for all. He also encourages all those in the Vancouver region to attend the CIC Vancouver events! You can contact the CIC Vancouver Branch at Vancouver@thecic.org and Michael at michaelvento19@gmail.com.

Sohail Ahmed has 3 years of experience in Professional Services and is presently an Associate in the Transfer Pricing practice at Price Waterhouse Coopers Canada (PWC) in the Vancouver office. Prior to this, he started his career in Policy Macroeconomic Research at EMIR, a U.A.E.-based advisory firm that serves CEOs of large multinationals operating in the Middle East, with a focus on government strategy and public policy. He has also volunteered with the Vancouver chapter of Muslims Achieving Excellence (MAX), a non-profit organization focused on career mentorship, networking and skill development programs for young professionals. He believes in the importance of diversity of perspectives and has international study and work experience in 4 countries and 3 different focus areas including Information Systems, Policy Market Research, and Transfer Pricing.

Jemma (she/her) is a second year Political Science student at KPU. She has experience working as a student intern for the South Surrey-White Rock Constituency in the Student Mentorship program at KPU. She is also President of the Debate Club at KPU, as well as the Model UN Club in an ongoing goal to encourage students to speak up about issues that matter. Jemma looks forward to working on events with the CIC in Vancouver as she believes it’s important to help engage Canadians in foreign policies and global politics.

Mei Terasawa is a third-year international student studying international relations at UBC. She is also a research assistant at the UBC Centre for Japanese Research and the UBC Konwakai Chair Program. While her main research interest is political and economic development in the Indo-Pacific regions, she wants to expand her field to examine Canadian foreign policy to contribute to the local community. With her knowledge of the Asia region and experience as a research assistant, Mei looks forward to joining CIC Vancouver and assisting in event coordination and promotions.