The IAFR Board is made up of committed Christian leaders who excel in their fields of expertise, and have contemporary experience of the refugee reality. The IAFR Directors are passionate about ensuring that their organization’s structures and processes help displaced people thrive and contribute to their new communities.
Paulson Ong has a heart for the displaced, shaped by his faith and a calling to serve others globally. He is an active member at The Peoples Church’s Global Mission Team, and has led financial literacy workshops for newcomers and refugee claimants. Professionally, Paulson is in wealth management, specializing in cross-border financial planning. He is committed to seeing the displaced and newcomers not just survive, but truly thrive and contribute to their new communities.
Helton migrated to Canada from Uganda, where he was a public servant for twenty years. Over seven years, he served refugees at Matthew House and Adam House in Toronto creating the groundbreaking Re-Course – the Refugee Hearing Program to assist refugee claimants in preparing for their refugee hearings at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
Helton has a Masters in Marketing and Counselling Psychology, and now works as a Regulated Immigration Citizenship Consultant and is a member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
Gail Parkins Grant brings over twenty years of experience in public service and international development, with a focus on policy, program design, and anti-racism work. Her global career spans the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia, where she led initiatives and supported sustainable development in complex settings. As a new Canadian, Gail understands the challenges of starting over—an experience that deepens her compassion for those facing displacement. Her faith shapes her commitment to justice and restoration, and she believes in the dignity and worth of every person.
B.S. Ayo-Ojo is a distinguished legal professional with a Doctor of Laws (PhD) in International Human Rights. He serves as an Employment Standards Officer. His work ensures compliance with employment standards, promotes fair workplace practices, and safeguards vulnerable workers. Previously, as a Resettlement Manager, he advocated for refugees’ legal rights and supported their integration into Canadian society by facilitating access to housing, education, and employment. Across his scholarship and practice, he is deeply committed to advancing human rights, protecting the rights of detainees in detention centres, and promoting social justice.
Reverend Yan serves as Ambassador for Connections East Asia at OMF Canada. In this capacity, he seeks to come alongside East Asian churches across Canada. Reverend Yan is a sought-after public speaker and serves in as the Chaplain at Pearson International Airport, where he supports many people who are new to the country.
