About Us
Our Story
Established on August 16, 2021, as a federally incorporated Canadian nonprofit and non-governmental organization, Aman Lara emerged in response to the escalating security and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The organization was founded with a distinct purpose — to aid vulnerable Afghans who supported Canadian missions in evacuating and finding refuge in Canada and other safe jurisdictions.
From navigating the complexities of evacuating vulnerable Afghans amidst the deteriorating security situation in 2021 to responding swiftly and flexibly to the outbreak of war in Ukraine in 2022, Aman Lara has continued to evolve as a vital lifeline for those in dire circumstances. Our mission extends beyond borders, providing pathways for safe resettlement to individuals facing persecution, violence, and displacement.
Aman Lara stands as a testament to the collaboration between serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans, former Locally Employed Staff, and dedicated Canadian volunteers all united in the commitment to ensuring safe passage, protection, and opportunity for those in need.
our Identity
The primary language spoken in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where the Canadian Armed Forces faced the most intense fighting and sustained the greatest number of casualties alongside the Afghans who fought and worked with them, is Pashto. Our founding team, consisting of Canadians and Afghans, came up with the name "Aman Lara," which means "Sheltered Path" in Pashto. Our name embodies our aspiration for the refugees we assist. It represents the vision of a secure and safe passage that we aim to provide to the diverse communities we aid in Afghanistan and other parts of the world.
our evolution
What began as an urgent mission to evacuate Afghan allies has grown into a long-term, global commitment to protecting and empowering displaced individuals. Today, Aman Lara is a registered charity, powered by a network of dedicated professionals who volunteer their expertise across humanitarian response, legal navigation, program management, and communications. This model ensures that every dollar raised flows directly to the people we serve.
Our commitment to our mission and vision drives us to be the catalyst for meaningful and enduring impact
on the lives of those we serve.
vision
WHO WE ASPIRE TO BE
To be a trusted leader in advancing safe passage, protection, and opportunity — enabling people not only to survive crisis, but to thrive with dignity and purpose in communities where they can fully belong.
Our vision is grounded in the belief that safety is only the beginning. As we look to the future, we envision a world where refugees and displaced individuals are not only protected but fully empowered to thrive — where they are welcomed as leaders, contributors, and changemakers in the communities they now call home. Guided by compassion and accountability, Aman Lara seeks to lead bold, systems-level change that redefines what it means to rebuild after displacement — centering agency, belonging, and opportunity every step of the way.
Our work is a testament to the belief that every person we serve has the potential to contribute meaningfully to society and create a brighter, more sustainable future for themselves and their families.
mission
Aman Lara enables safe passage, protection, and pathways to opportunity for refugees, displaced individuals, and those at-risk — helping them rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
Our mission is a commitment to act decisively in the face of crisis — mobilizing resources, expertise, and compassion to provide immediate assistance and safe passage for those in need. But the journey doesn't end with evacuation. We take a holistic approach that extends beyond emergency response to foster sustainable new beginnings. By connecting individuals to critical resources, education, training, and community networks, we help transform stories of displacement into pathways of resilience, purpose, and hope.
Aman Lara remains committed to providing safety, dignity, and hope — not just for today, but for generations to come.
WHO WE ARE
values
At Aman Lara, we are driven by a deep sense of purpose.
Our shared purpose is to make a difference in the lives of those we serve by embodying the values of compassion, dedication, integrity, and collaboration throughout every aspect of our work.
OUR SHARED PURPOSE
| Compassion
Compassion is our compass. We approach our mission with empathy, understanding the vulnerabilities of those at risk, and the urgency of their needs. We prioritize the well-being and dignity of every at-risk individual we assist.
| Dedication
Our dedication is more than a commitment; it's our promise to tirelessly advocate for individuals from nations in crisis. We invest our time, expertise, and resources, to ensure at-risk individuals find safety and hope in Canada and other safe jurisdictions.
| Integrity
We are committed to transparency, ethical conduct, and accountability in all our dealings with clients, partners, foundations, sponsors and donors. Upholding the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all our operations.
| Collaboration
We believe in the power of partnership, both domestically and globally, to strengthen our ability to serve and support at-risk populations and maximize our impact and reach. We actively seek diverse voices and perspectives to enrich our collective knowledge.
Our values are the foundation of everything we do, shaping our interactions and defining our approach to humanitarian support. They inspire us to approach every challenge with integrity, every partnership with collaboration, and every person we assist with compassion and dedication.
By upholding these values, we create a framework that not only guides our decision-making but also fosters trust and unity across our network of partners, funders, and communities. Whether navigating complex evacuation logistics or spearheading initiatives like Horizon Hope, our values remind us that meaningful change is built on a shared commitment to human dignity and opportunity
OUR TEAM
Meet our Volunteers
Aman Lara is powered by a multidisciplinary team of professionals who volunteer their expertise to the mission. Our team brings backgrounds spanning the Canadian Armed Forces, law, immigration consulting, international development, program management, and communications — united by a shared commitment to protection, dignity, and durable solutions. Collectively they have developed and implemented a range of initiatives and programs targeted towards increasing support and representation of key groups in the workplace and communities, along with work in advocacy, immigration and refugee support, diversity equity and inclusion, program evaluation, humanitarian aid, crisis response and international development. Each team member brings a unique understanding and lived experiences of the challenges and barriers newcomers, refugees, and other vulnerable demographics face in achieving equity and equality. This depth of experience and dedication allows us to effectively support and empower our clients, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.
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Executive Director of Aman Lara
Jon Feltham served 23 years in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Jon predominately spent most of his career with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry; he is also fond of his time with the Royal Canadian Regiment. Throughout his career, he deployed on numerous international operations in the Former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, and Cyprus. Upon retirement in 2018, Jon desired to accentuate his career by converging it with the power of education and completed a number of programs from the Health and Safety and Project Management lens, both from the University of British Columbia and University of New Brunswick. However, he didn't fulfill the need he desired, and he applied and completed a Master's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC. Since his retirement from the CAF, Jon has done an abundance of research on Afghanistan. Jon has also become an enormous advocate for veterans, having done plenty of research on soldiers in transition. Now he has become a champion in advocating for Afghans whose lives instantly became at risk in early 2021 with the end of Western operations in the country, which saw the collapse of the government and subsequent fall back to the hands of the Taliban regime he once engaged in combat operations against. Jon is a humanitarian and researcher at heart, but he is also a true professional leader who desires to set a model example for the veteran community.
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Julia Aitken, Program and Communications Director
Julia is a valuable asset to the Aman Lara team, bringing over 25 years of professional experience to the table. Her extensive expertise includes project/program management and implementation, project research and evaluation, performance measurement, strategic planning and communication, governance review, stakeholder consultation and engagement, talent management and strategic human resources, as well as organizational assessment.
Julia's passion for social justice and transformation is evident in her work with a diverse range of private, public, and not-for-profit clients. Her work has revolved around reshaping and implementing various programs, policies, and initiatives designed to amplify positive impacts at individual, community, and global levels. Her primary areas of focus include diversity, equity, inclusion, gender equality, public and mental health, community services, personal and professional development, and fostering supportive organizational cultures.
In addition to her consulting skills, Julia has a keen eye for branding and design. She is an expert in visual storytelling, digital layout and design, and web and online community development (including course creation). By thoughtfully and intentionally crafting brand visuals and content, Julia creates authentic and compelling narratives that convey an organization's story, highlight their value and impact, and inspire confidence. Ultimately, Julia aims to create meaningful narratives that connect humanity and drive positive change.
Julia holds a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from the University of Ottawa.
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Site Reliability Engineer
A military veteran who served overseas in Iraq, Cameron transitioned into the tech industry after completing the University of Ottawa's Coding for Veterans program in 2021. His exceptional leadership skills and attention to detail were honed during his time in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he was responsible for leading and ensuring that all unit standards were met. With his unique background and experience, Cameron is a highly valuable asset to Aman Lara. -
Program Manager
Nadia volunteers her time as a Program Manager at Aman Lara, where she oversees complex case management and provides high-touch support to Afghan clients navigating protection and resettlement pathways. With a deep understanding of the cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers faced by those at risk, Nadia ensures Aman Lara’s programs are both responsive and grounded in the lived experiences of the people we serve.
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Administrative Assistant and Project Coordinator
Thalia’s career journey is marked by diversity and a wealth of experience in the medical field as a Registered Nurse. She has a strong focus on patient-centric care, and her extensive nursing experience has given her an understanding of the importance of a holistic approach, addressing various dimensions such as biophysical, psychological, emotional, social, cultural, and spiritual. She believes that this comprehensive approach is essential in meeting individuals' needs, including the broader health determinants that influence and impact their overall health.Thalia's commitment to Aman Lara’s humanitarian cause stems from a seven-year tenure at a non-governmental organization serving Canadian Veterans. Her experience gave her a deeper understanding of the community's ties to Afghanistan, and she understands the profound impact that humanitarian crises have on refugees. She is naturally compelled to support those in need during crises, which makes her an excellent addition to our team.
As part of our team, Thalia's role extends beyond administrative support. She actively contributes to the team's collaborative approach and enhances the organization's mission execution by leveraging her versatile skills. Thalia's enthusiasm, empathy, and steadfast commitment to effecting positive change underscore her role in supporting the team and advancing the organization's mission.
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Operational Communicator - Afghanistan (Volunteer)
Quadratullah Haqmal has 5 years of experience in Project management working with Humanitarian Action for the People of Afghanistan as an Emergency Regional Project Manager, assisting Afghans in need through the provision of food shelter, and other resources. He has a High School Diploma from HMN High School Kandahar, Afghanistan; and has multiple certifications in information technology. Quadratullah was evacuated from Afghanistan in Aug 2021 and is now one of Aman Lara’s operational communicators, focused on Afghanistan. He works from Ottawa, Ontario. In conjunction with the team, he provides regular updates to applicants in Afghanistan. He is deeply knowledgeable about the applicant community in Afghanistan, specifically their needs with regard to IRCC and travel documentation status.
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Operational Communicator- Afghanistan
Fida Mohammad Zaki graduated with a master’s degree in Agricultural Science from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. He also has certifications in teaching, Information Technology, and Management. Fida Mohammad worked as an Interpreter with the Canadian Armed forces for 2 years. He has also worked with for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) as a livelihood and food security officer. He also worked as an inventory controller at ANHAM FCOZ International Food Industry from 2013 to 2014 at the Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. Fida Mohammad was evacuated from Afghanistan in Aug 2021 and one of Aman Lara’s operational communicators focused on Afghanistan. He works from Ottawa, Ontario. In conjunction with the team, he provides regular updates to applicants in Afghanistan. He is deeply knowledgeable about the applicant community in Afghanistan, specifically their needs with regard to IRCC and travel documentation status.
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Resettlement Director of Aman Lara
Wendy Long is a retired federal public servant and first-generation Canadian with a deep commitment to justice, equity, and humanitarian support. She brings extensive experience in advocacy, community engagement, and resettlement services for refugees and newcomers.
In 2017, Wendy founded Afghan-Canadian Interpreters, a grassroots organization that played a pivotal role in advocating for the Special Immigration Measures policy for Afghans who served alongside the Canadian Armed Forces. Her work was instrumental in ensuring de facto family members were included in resettlement efforts during the 2021 Afghanistan crisis. In 2022, Afghan-Canadian Interpreters joined forces with Aman Lara, where Wendy now serves as Resettlement Director.
At Aman Lara, Wendy leads a national resettlement support strategy, working directly with individuals and families who have been approved for resettlement or who have recently arrived in Canada. She ensures they are connected to local services, housing, employment pathways, and community resources, while also developing mentorship models that build bridges between new arrivals and Canadian communities. Her work has expanded to support individuals from multiple crisis-affected regions, including those navigating complex immigration pathways and long-term integration.
Wendy remains a passionate advocate for displaced individuals worldwide and continues to engage with government, civil society, and local communities to help newcomers rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
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Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) Mehrangiz Monsef moved to Turtle Island (North America) with her family nearly three decades ago.
With first-hand experience migrating and integrating into a new home, away from home; she can relate to newcomers journey. Additionally, she has learned to navigate the new social, cultural, political and economic realities and has acquired strategies and support networks to overcome barriers.
RCIC Mehrangiz has over 13 years of experience working within Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color (BIPOC) communities; eight years of which she has been working within the immigration and settlement sector.
She first started working on Immigration applications as a volunteer in 2013; after seeing first-hand the immense positive outcome that this support achieved, she was inspired to enrol in Herzing College's 'Immigration Consulting Diploma' program in 2018. Mehrangiz became a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in June 2023 and launched Monsef Immigration Consulting with the goal of sharing knowledge and experience to support other newcomers through their own immigration journey.
OUR BOARD
Meet the Board of Directors
Aman Lara's Board of Directors brings together accomplished leaders across law, medicine, technology, military service, and governance — united by a deep commitment to protection, human rights, and durable solutions for displaced individuals
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Board Chair
Janice Fischer is a freelance transformational leader and board member who leverages an IBM career that spanned global business units including IBM Cloud, Global Technology Services (now Kyndryl), Sales, and Global Consulting.
She is recognized for being an energetic and engaging leader who understands and fixes complex business challenges to create new, and transform existing businesses.
She is respected for delivering results while efficiently managing complex implementations and leading 40,000+ member global workforces. She is also steeped in the disciplines of Cyber-security, Risk, and Compliance.
Janice has lived and worked in the United States and Canada. She holds a post graduate diploma in business administration from Wilfrid Laurier University, Toronto, Ontario, and a B.S. in biology from the University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario.
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Major-General (Retired) - Board Member
Major-General (Retired) Denis Thompson served 39 years in the Canadian Army deploying on multiple operations at home and abroad in Cyprus, Germany, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Egypt including command of NATO’s Task Force Kandahar (2008/09), Canada’s Special Operations Forces (2011-2014) and the Multinational Force & Observers in the Sinai (2014-2017).
Since retirement he has been a periodic lecturer at University of Ottawa, Winnipeg, Queens, Carleton, Bishop’s, and McGill as well as a Senior Mentor at the Canadian Forces College, Toronto.
He remains in service as the Colonel of the Regiment for The Royal Canadian Regiment.
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Major-General (Retired) - Board Member
David Fraser is the President of Aegis Six Corporation in Toronto and a retired Major-General.
He served in various command and staff positions in the PPCLI for 30 years and commanded the NATO coalition in southern Afghanistan in 2006.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Carleton University and a Master’s of Management and Policy from the United States Capstone Program.
His honours and awards include the Commander of Military Merit, the Canadian Meritorious Service Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal, the United States Legion of Honor and Bronze Star, and various other awards from allied countries.
In addition to his military career, he co-founded Blue Goose Pure Foods and joined INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing as their COO before starting Aegis in 2016.
He is also a panel member on the Jenkins’ Defence Procurement Panel and sits on several boards, including Open Text.
David is a CTV Military Analyst and national bestselling co-author of “Operation Medusa; The Furious Battle that Saved Afghanistan from the Taliban” and “The Anticipant Organization”.
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Board Vice-Chair
Saeeq Shajjan founded SHAJJAN & ASSOCIATES in 2011.
Under Shajjan’s leadership, SHAJJAN & ASSOCIATES achieved recognition for its services not only in Afghanistan but also abroad. With over 16 years of hands-on experience, Shajjan’s practice area mainly covers real estate law, commercial law and contract law.
He also possesses expertise in corporate law, civil law, family law, criminal law, property law, citizenship law, constitutional law, Islamic law as well as banking, taxation, labor and employment and human rights.
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Treasurer - Board Member
Caleb is an international human rights lawyer based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Before becoming a lawyer, Caleb served for 20 years with the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. In the course of his duties, he deployed numerous times to places such as Afghanistan, Jordan, Niger, and Ukraine, among others.As a practitioner of human rights, Caleb has worked or volunteered in various locations, including South Sudan, Rwanda, Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Haiti, and Guantanamo Bay.
Caleb holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Business Administration in Leadership, and a Juris Doctor with a focus on Public International Law. He is currently enrolled in a Master of Science in International Human Rights Law at the University of Oxford.
When not working or volunteering, Caleb spends his free time with his wife and two small boys, happily 3D printing and managing their hobby farm.
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Secretary to the Board
Victoria is Legal Counsel in the National Litigation Sector for the Department of Justice Canada and an International Human Rights Law advocate based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, Victoria spent 15 years working in international development, human rights and humanitarian aid for organizations, government agencies and universities in Canada and across Africa, where she focussed on evaluating programming for children’s rights in armed conflict and refugee populations.
Victoria holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology/Anthropology, a Graduate Diploma in Program Evaluation, and a Juris Doctor with a focus on Public International law.
In addition to her current litigation work with Justice Canada, she is an aspiring international law academic training for her first half-marathon, who can also be found cycling, swimming and rock climbing with her husband and two young children.
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Board Member
Marko is a partner in Blakes Emerging Companies & Venture Capital Group, specializing in venture capital financings, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions and strategic commercial transactions.
Marko regularly advises a range of investors with an interest in emerging companies, including venture capital, growth equity, private equity, pension fund and strategic investors.
He also represents founders, emerging companies and growth stage companies on debt and equity financings, corporate structure, investor relations, incentive plans and intellectual property matters.
Marko’s expertise extends across a broad range of industry sectors, including technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, cleantech, insurtech, blockchain, advanced manufacturing and life sciences, among others.
Advisors to the Board
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MD, MPH - Board Advisor
Board Certified Physician in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Instructor, Global Health Enthusiast with a focus on sustainable medical education as the method of improving delivery of health care in resource-limited areas and disaster-response areas.
Currently an Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine In the division of Critical Care at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Penn Center for Global Health Scholar, faculty with the East African Training Initiative, founder of the Bangladesh Ultrasound Initiative, head of ultrasound for Bridge to Health and Medglobal, two non-profit organizations focused on reducing health care disparities across the globe.
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Board Advisor
Tom Wheatley was a Distinguished Engineer and Chief Technology Officer in IBM Global Technology Services.
He had thirty-four years of experience in the information technology industry.
He has driven the definition, development and implementation of high-impact IT solutions for numerous clients across multiple industries.
He has a proven track record of driving business value through the use of optimized and innovative IT solutions.