About Us
An award–winning social enterprise, Potluck Café Society (a registered charity) owns and operates Potluck Catering, a thriving catering business in the heart of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside that employs neighbourhood residents in many forms of low-barrier income generating roles.
Potluck is driven by a commitment to addressing the needs of the community. By offering employment opportunities and practical training to individuals facing barriers, Potluck aims to empower and uplift individuals by providing them with a chance to improve their lives. Additionally, by providing nutritious food to residents in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, Potluck strives to promote health and well-being in the community. Our ultimate goal is to make a positive and lasting impact on individuals' lives and contribute to the overall betterment of the community.
We’ve been doing this work since 2001, and are proud to be both a leader and a collaborator in a movement that uses training and employment as a dignified means of helping people regain their confidence, skills, and economic independence.
Potluck Catering contributes all revenue to Potluck Café Society, supporting community programming.
Meet The Executive Team
Executive Director
Naved Noorani
Naved is the Executive Director at Potluck Café Society, bringing several decades of international experience in the hospitality industry. He has worked with leading global brands such as Fairmont, Starwood, Hyatt, InterContinental, and Oberoi Hotels. Naved holds a Diploma in Business Administration and Hotel Operations from Oberoi School of Hotel Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Bombay. His leadership at Potluck is driven by a passion for creating lasting social impact through food and community. Outside of work, Naved enjoys cooking, traveling, and capturing moments behind the camera.
Executive Chef
Brenda Desjardin
Brenda is the Executive Chef at Potluck Café Society and has been with the organization for 17 years. As an Indigenous chef, she began her culinary journey 24 years ago, cooking and volunteering in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. After attending Cook Studio Culinary School, she became an instructor, combining her passion for cooking with teaching. Brenda is dedicated to Potluck’s mission of giving back to the community, especially through food and education. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering as a coach in the Downtown Eastside, continuing her commitment to uplifting her community.
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General Manager
Anissa Zacharczuk
Anissa joined Potluck Catering in March 2023 after graduating from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor of Communication and a Minor in Digital Publishing. Originally from Ontario, she moved to British Columbia in 2018 and brings a passion for creativity and teamwork to the Potluck team. During her time at SFU, she was an active member of the university’s softball team, demonstrating her commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Anissa is driven by Potluck’s mission to foster community through food and service, and she is dedicated to making a positive impact. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and discovering new foods, always eager for new experiences that fuel her love for exploration.
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Operations/ Communications Manager
Bonnie Whitford
Bonnie joined Potluck Catering in August 2024 after earning her Bachelor of Communication and Minor in Digital Publishing from Simon Fraser University. With over 10 years of experience in the food and beverage industry and a strong background in marketing, she brings her expertise and passion for exploring new foods to the team, always striving to deliver exceptional service. Bonnie is deeply committed to Potluck’s mission of empowering individuals by creating opportunities for growth and independence. In her free time, she enjoys skiing and hiking, constantly seeking new adventures that fuel her creativity and love for the outdoors.
Corporate Accountant
Gilles Giusta
Gilles, born and educated in France, gained 15 years of accounting experience working at a CPA firm in Monaco before moving to Canada in 1998. Shortly after his arrival, he founded Scorpio Consulting Accounting and later joined Potluck Catering in October 2002, becoming one of the company’s longest-serving and most valued team members. After nearly 25 years in his adopted country, Gilles proudly calls himself Canadian. He is passionate about Potluck’s community-driven mission and continually contributes his expertise to support its growth. In his free time, Gilles enjoys cooking, playing soccer, making music, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Meet The Board of Directors
Board Chair
Maz Artang
Maz Artang is the Founder of Aughdem Recruitment, a North American-based executive search firm, the Owner of Steven's Cocktail Lounge, and a Board Advisor for Tressl, a Calgary-based tech company. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Simon Fraser University and has over 15 years of experience in recruitment and human resources. As a fierce advocate for pay transparency, Maz has transformed industry practices through his innovative approach. His passion for Potluck lies in its mission to empower individuals with sustainable skills, fostering independence rather than reliance. In his free time, Maz enjoys traveling and reading, continually seeking new perspectives to inspire his work.
Board Treasurer
Nicholas Mobilio
Nicholas Mobilio is a Partner at PwC, specializing in business advisory and financial strategy. Growing up in a family-owned restaurant, Nicholas learned the importance of food security and the hard work required to sustain a small business. This upbringing inspired his involvement with Potluck, where he champions programs that provide skills and sustainable employment opportunities. Nicholas’s professional expertise and personal values drive his commitment to community impact. In his free time, he enjoys exploring Vancouver’s culinary landscape and connecting with others over shared meals.
Board Director
Liz Stephenson
Elizabeth Stephenson is the Founder of Dear Eliza, a women’s mental health company, and Two Four Seven PR, a full-service communications agency. She is also a Board Director and Chief Communications Officer for Move Health Holdings, a leading Canadian allied health organization. With a proven track record in marketing and brand development, Elizabeth excels in crafting impactful narratives. Her work with Potluck reflects her belief in fostering community resilience through initiatives that create lasting change. Outside of her professional life, she finds inspiration in art and travel.
Board Director
Dammy Ogunseitan
Dammy Ogunseitan is the Senior Director of Digital with Kirk & Co., specializing in digital marketing and communications. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Simon Fraser University and an MBA from the University of British Columbia. With a strong background in strategic growth and digital project management, Dammy excels in crafting innovative solutions that drive meaningful outcomes. His passion for community engagement aligns with Potluck's mission, where he supports initiatives aimed at fostering education and sustainable employment opportunities. In his free time, Dammy enjoys exploring Vancouver’s cultural scene and spending quality time with his family.
Board Director
Diana Claxton
Diana Claxton is a Business Development Manager at BC Place, where she leverages her extensive experience in sales and client relations to drive growth and enhance the venue's profile. A proud member of the Indigenous community, Diana is deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. Her passion for empowering marginalized groups aligns with Potluck’s mission of providing meaningful opportunities through skill development. Outside of her professional endeavours, Diana enjoys exploring Vancouver’s cultural scene, spending quality time with her family, and savouring fine wine.
Board Director
Michael Coletta
Michael Coletta is an Associate Investment Counsellor at RBC Phillips, Hager & North Investment Counsel Inc., with over 10 years of expertise in Canadian and US capital markets. His strategic insight and analytical skills have made him a key contributor to the financial sector. Michael joined Potluck to support its efforts in providing meaningful opportunities for individuals in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, believing in the transformative power of community-driven solutions. A sports enthusiast, Michael enjoys hockey, soccer, and football. He also loves traveling with his wife, exploring culinary experiences, and embracing Vancouver's outdoor lifestyle.
Board Director
Bobby Sangha
Bobby Sangha is the CEO of CareCorp Seniors Services, overseeing one of British Columbia and Alberta’s leading senior care organizations. With a diploma in respiratory therapy from Thompson Rivers University and over 15 years of healthcare experience, including 12 years as a registered respiratory therapist, Bobby has dedicated his career to compassionate care. His entrepreneurial vision led to the founding of CareCorp, which supports over 1,000 individuals daily. Bobby is drawn to Potluck's mission for its focus on sustainable skill development and community impact. In his free time, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and exploring new opportunities to give back.
Board Director
Tyler Steele
Tyler Steele is a Portfolio Manager at Richardson Wealth, with over a decade of experience in wealth management and financial planning. His background includes expertise in portfolio construction, risk management, and tailored investment solutions. Tyler’s passion for supporting community initiatives led him to Potluck, where he contributes his financial expertise to advancing its mission of creating opportunities for skill development and sustainable growth. Based in Vancouver, Tyler enjoys the city’s outdoor spaces and dynamic culture, balancing professional success with personal fulfillment.
Board Secretary
Liam Briggs
Liam Briggs is the Regional Vice President at Avison Young, a global leader in commercial real estate. He has over 15 years of experience in project management, tenant representation, and construction management, overseeing numerous high-impact projects across North America. With a Bachelor of Economics and a Bachelor of Technology in Construction Management, as well as PMP accreditation, Liam brings a strategic approach to his work. He joined Potluck to support its efforts in creating inclusive pathways for skill-building and employment. Outside work, Liam is an avid traveler and reader, embracing opportunities to expand his horizons.