Charles is our CEO, and he is committed to authentically serving our team of staff and volunteers, our board of directors, and all of our partners and donors. Charles began his work with LiveDifferent in 2006 as Director of International Programs. From 2010 to 2012 he served as Director of all programs, and in 2012 he transitioned into the CEO role. Charles has travelled Canada working in schools, he has lived internationally and helped lead trips and oversee operations in every country we work in, and he has led our Academy program in Mexico as well. Charles is committed to LiveDifferent’s mission and lifestyle values.

Charles is the father of six children. He enjoys backcountry exploring and is known as the board game champion around LiveDifferent.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?

Serving on other charity boards is one way I enjoy volunteering my time right now. Additionally, we are a foster family and provide emergency and respite care for children and youth. We feel it is very important that every young person has a safe place to call home. If I had a free day to enjoy something selfishly, I would always choose an activity that includes some kind of outdoor adventure.

Ryan Wood is LiveDifferent’s Chief Impact Officer and has been part of the organization since 2004. Over the years, he has spoken to thousands of students across Canada, helped lead road teams, participated in multiple Builds, and supported the growth of LiveDifferent’s programs, systems and impact. In his current role, Ryan works across strategy, program development, technology, operations and impact measurement, helping turn big ideas into practical tools and experiences that support youth, volunteers, staff and communities.

How Do I “LiveDifferent”?

I “LiveDifferent” by giving my time to practical work that helps people find purpose, confidence and connection. I serve as Board President for Inner Compass Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to create hopeful, informed alternatives to conventional mental health narratives. That matters to me because I believe people need honest, empowering ways to understand their struggles and move toward a more meaningful life.

I also volunteer with local gliding clubs and an Air Cadet squadron, helping with programs that give youth opportunities to build confidence, responsibility, leadership and aviation skills. For me, living different means showing up in places where I can help people grow, feel supported and discover what they are capable of.

Deena is our Director of Finance and brings a strong commitment to using financial stewardship as a tool for impact. With experience in the non-profit sector, she brings a values-based approach to reporting, budgeting, and strategic financial planning – ensuring that every dollar supports meaningful, mission-aligned change. She is drawn to LiveDifferent’s mission because it aligns deeply with her belief that finance is not just about numbers, it’s about people. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids, hosting family and friends in their backyard during the summer, attending the wide variety of Winnipeg festivals and events, and cooking with her husband and trying new recipes.
How do you “LiveDifferent”?
I LiveDifferent by striving to live life with purpose, compassion, and kindness. I support a variety of charities that focus on the well-being of people and animals. I’ve recently joined a board in the role of Treasurer of an organization that supports and serves people with intellectual disabilities. I support local animal rescues by providing supplies and support, fostering animals, and being a flight angel. I’m committed to learning and educating myself and others to build empathy and promote social justice. I love connecting with people and building meaningful relationships, as it’s connection and community that have a profound impact on our lives. I understand that my life is a part of a larger community, and by living intentionally and compassionately, I hope to leave a positive mark on the world!

Overseeing the team that executes our programming across Canada, Johnny plays a key role in the development of all experiences, content, and materials that end up in schools and communities from coast-to-coast.

Johnny Henderson is the Director of School and Community Programs at LiveDifferent, where he helps create and lead youth programs that inspire students across Canada and beyond. With over 15 years of experience in motivational speaking, storytelling, youth engagement, and program design, Johnny loves helping young people think differently about their lives, their purpose, and the impact they can have on the world around them. Based in St. Catharines, Ontario, Johnny is at his best when he’s with his family, sharing moments of laughter with a house full of young kids. He’s also a serious movie lover who believes few things beat the full theatre experience especially if it involves some dystopian sci-fi. Johnny is a proud, extremely amateur comedian, And will always take time to hear out a good conspiracy theory.

Johnny’s Keynote Presentation

How Do I “LiveDifferent?
When I was 16, my life changed because of a breakthrough moment of hope. I realized that my life had purpose, and I’ve never been the same since. In many ways, everything I do has grown out of that moment. My creativity, communication, storytelling, and even comedy have all been to help others experience that same thing.

There’s a quote often attributed to theologian and civil rights leader Howard Thurman: “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” All of my life energy goes to helping people come alive.

As Acting Director of Community and Team Engagement at LiveDifferent, Sarah plays a key role in building meaningful connections between supporters, volunteers, partners, and the organization’s programs both locally and internationally. She helps lead initiatives that strengthen team culture, deepen community engagement, and create experiences that inspire people to live with greater purpose, kindness, and impact. With a background spanning administration, HR, strategy, and nonprofit leadership, she brings a collaborative and people-focused approach to every area of the organization.

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys staying active, spending time with family and friends, and being outdoors in nature whenever possible, whether that’s hiking, exploring new places, or simply enjoying time outside

How do you “LiveDifferent”?
LivingDifferent, to me, means choosing service over ego, curiosity over certainty, and integrity over convenience. It is noticing what isn’t working and quietly fixing it, celebrating others first, and believing that progress happens through small, consistent actions that add up to something meaningful. It’s not something I switch on for work. It’s how I try to show up in my life: with compassion, steady follow-through, and a belief that we’re all better when we lift each other forward.

Mary Anne joined LiveDifferent in 2016 and brings over a decade of experience working with marginalized and street-involved youth, with a strong passion for addressing the issues of Indigenous youth in Canada. Over the years, she has held multiple leadership roles, including Indigenous Program Liaison, Manager of Indigenous Programs, Manager of School & Community Programs, and Community Engagement Manager. She is now the Acting Director of Sales & Marketing, continuing to build relationships with educators while helping all of LiveDifferent’s programs grow and flourish.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?
I try to “livedifferent” by intentionally raising my two daughters to lead with compassion, kindness, and empathy, while encouraging them to use their passions and gifts to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I also deeply value showing up for the people and community around me, whether that’s supporting a neighbour in need, being there for a friend during a difficult time, or helping create meaningful connections that strengthen the communities we’re part of. Both personally and professionally, I believe in the power of compassion, community, and inspiring others to recognize the difference they can make in the world.

As Manager of Operations in the Dominican Republic, Stacey supports the Builds program by organizing logistics and helping with volunteer group itineraries, ensuring everything runs smoothly and safely. From coordinating with local staff to working alongside the families, Stacey excels in planning and logistics. Known for her deep relationships in the communities and vibrant energy, she is an essential part of every Build experience.

How do you LiveDifferent?

In 2013, on my first LiveDifferent Build, I saw a t-shirt that said, “Life is about people, not stuff.” That simple message has stuck with me ever since. It reminds me that love and support are paramount, no matter where we are or what we’ve been through. While we can’t change the entire world, we can make a real difference in the lives of those around us. Small acts of kindness—just being there for someone—can mean everything. I strive to live different by focusing on people and spreading kindness, knowing it can have a lasting impact.

Danielle is our Coordinator of International Programs and brings a deep passion for helping others. With 15 years at WestJet, 10 of those in a coordinator role, she’s led and participated in multiple Builds, including three in the Dominican Republic. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to excellent customer service, Danielle goes above and beyond to ensure every volunteer has a smooth, safe, and unforgettable experience. She lives in Lyalta, Alberta, with her husband of over 21 years; they have four adventurous, caring young adults. Outside of work, she loves playing slo-pitch, reading, going to concerts, enjoying the outdoors, and spending quality time with her family.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?

For me, it’s the little things—kindness, a smile, showing up when it matters. I believe in treating people with care and compassion, and that even the smallest gesture can leave a lasting impact. Volunteering has always been a part of my life, especially when it comes to being involved in my kids’ lives, whether through their sports, activities, or school programs. I’ve wrapped Christmas hampers, raised funds for cancer research, and even shaved my head in support of a cause I care about.

I LiveDifferent by serving others with heart, consistency and integrity. While working for WestJet, I was known for being the calm in the chaos, someone who quietly stepped in to help, especially when things got tough. I carry that same energy with me into this next chapter: to work hard, care deeply, and make a difference in every life I have the chance to touch.

As Director of Strategic Initiatives, Hiske focuses on LiveDifferent achieving its long-term goals for growth, impact, and sustainability. Her work includes researching new opportunities, developing corporate partnerships, leading organization effectiveness projects, and exploring innovative ideas. In short, turning our vision into practical plans that create meaningful results.

She has worked in consulting roles across Australia and Europe, supporting organizations with strategy, organizational development, and change initiatives. Hiske and her daughter Vivienne (see photo), who is a junior Architect, help design the upgrade of our key asset, the guesthouse for Mexico Builds.

How Do I “LiveDifferent”?
Living different means being kind to others, especially when it cost me something. I can give away things that I don’t need anymore or clothes I no longer want but when I give away my favourite scarf because someone else loves it so much or needs it more than me, that’s different. When I give my time when I am busy, my attention when I am distracted, or I help when it’s inconvenient, that’s different too. I think the most meaningful acts of kindness involve a little bit of sacrifice. They require us to put someone else’s needs first. That’s what making a difference means to me, choosing generosity when it would be easier not to.

Ashton’s journey with LiveDifferent began at age 11 on her first Build, and it’s been a part of her life ever since. As a kid, she couldn’t wait for the road teams to billet with her family, always inspired by their stories and passion. That same excitement led her to become a Volunteer Build Lead, where she deepened her connection to the work and saw firsthand the impact of LiveDifferent’s programs. Now based in Calgary, Ashton serves as our Partnership Engagement Specialist, where she focuses on building meaningful relationships with partners to help grow our reach and deepen our impact. Outside of work, you’ll find her hiking, camping, playing sports, travelling, or signing up for full marathons on a whim.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?

I LiveDifferent by creating deep connections, encouraging others, and reminding people of their value. Building relationships and having fun while making a meaningful impact is what I’m most passionate about, and I’m so grateful to have a job that allows me to do just that. The people I’ve met through LiveDifferent are incredibly life-giving and inspiring—they motivate me to keep showing up with purpose and heart. I believe we’re all more capable than we realize and that each of us has the power to make a difference in the world. Oh, and I also LiveDifferent by proudly being the most skilled (and competitive!) dice player you’ll ever meet.

We like to call Frantzo our “Fixer” – and he has greatly earned this title! Frantzo has been working with our LiveDifferent Build teams since 2007. Any problem you have or need help with, he has a solution in either Creole, French, Spanish, English, and German. Frantzo, his wife, and their sons Junior and Grace-Lee live part-time in Dominican Republic and Haiti. Like many of us, Fantzo has a dream, and with this dream, he hopes to see Haiti as a thriving and prosperous nation. We like that dream, too!

Joy has been in various roles over her many years with LiveDifferent, the most recent being Gratitude and Engagement Specialist. She is responsible for supporting and stewarding donors and partnerships through communication initiatives, social media and special event planning.

How Do You “LiveDifferent”?

As the Manager of Operations Assistant, Raf helps plan and organize everything Build logistics by liaising with community members, leaders and translators/contractors/drivers. He’s committed to working with local businesses and hardware stores for the best prices and to help the Manager of Operations stay within budget. He enjoys working alongside his team, solving any problems and helping our locals in any way they can while creating the best experience possible for Build volunteers. Being able to be part of creating so much change for my people fills his heart and motivates him to do more and more.

Outside of working with LiveDifferent, you can find Raf spending as much time as possible with his 3 beautiful children and his wife. He enjoys the outdoors, hiking and being close to the ocean.

How Do I “LiveDifferent”?

As a Dominican, I was raised with core values to support people around me. I have been very involved with multiple organizations since I was 15 years old, supporting, volunteering and translating in order to change the life conditions of people in my country. Since I joined LiveDifferent in 2012, I learned about the “the boy and the star fish” story, which resonated heavily in my life and made me realize how important it is to change one person’s life at a time.

Elias is in charge of leading our Build teams during house Build projects, he is our foreman, contractor, teacher and guide for everything construction down in Mexico. Elias also helps to maintain the LiveDifferent Guest House property, he is Mr. Fix-it – we don’t know what we would do without him.

How Do You “LiveDifferent”?
This work is more than a job to me, it instills values like respect and teamwork and gives me a strong sense of purpose, while pushing me to live differently by staying open to learning and growing through every experience. After working with other charities and later in the fields, I realized how meaningful it is to me to truly help others, I believe this is my purpose . Being part of this organization from the beginning and contributing to the full process is very special. It’s inspiring to see how people from different countries build strong connections so quickly, even without a shared language, through a shared purpose. Seeing families receive their homes for the first time, often in disbelief and emotion, is deeply meaningful. Through this, we continue to grow and learn from one another.

Ana wears many hats at LiveDifferent. She is our Head Cook for all of our Build teams, runs the kitchen at the Guest House, and also helps to maintain the property alongside her husband Elias. She is around to clean, and prep for all the groups that we host, and she also works with Angelina to visit potential Build families and organize applications.

How Do You “LiveDifferent”?
I “LiveDifferent” by helping families in need through my work in Mexico. I am also intentional in making Build volunteers feel welcome in Mexico, helping them understand how special the work they do with families is, and encouraging them to come back.

Simon is from Red Deer, Alberta. He is dedicated to inspiring youth with a sense of resilience, purpose, and belonging. As LiveDifferent’s Road Team Leader, Simon thrives on mentoring his team and creating impactful school experiences. When he’s not empowering others, he enjoys travelling, hiking, and diving into a good book.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?

I choose to “LiveDifferent” by striving to lead with compassion, purpose, and a commitment to creating positive change. For me, living differently means embracing opportunities to inspire and uplift others, whether it’s through mentoring my team or helping students find their unique sense of value and purpose. I align with LiveDifferent’s values by cultivating resilience and fostering connections that remind people they are not alone in their journey. Travelling and experiencing diverse perspectives has taught me the importance of gratitude and empathy, which I carry into every interaction. Living differently is about stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing growth, and sharing hope with the world—one meaningful moment at a time.

As the Program Assistant in Haiti, Mirlande helps with the administration, logistics and supervising LiveDifferent’s projects: Freedom Village and École L’Union. She manages all incoming and outgoing administrative flows of the programs.

What do you love about what you do?
The connection that exists between the people I work with, and in the way we are collaborating to bring change to others. That really makes me feel valued and appreciated for all I do.

What would an ideal free day look like for you?
Most of my free time I always spend it with my family because it’s the time where we can talk and share together.

It’s karaoke night and you have no choice but to perform. What song would you choose and why?
The song I would choose is A Million Tongue by Sinach. Because every time I listen to that song, it reminds me I live by grace and I will never stop thanking God for that.

Jodi serves as our Haiti Engagement Lead, and she is passionate to connect more people with the work being done in Cap-Haitien. Her commitment to Northern Haiti began in 2018 and since then, she and her family have supported the meal program at Ecole L’Union and sponsored a girl in the Freedom Village. Based in Calgary, Jodi balances her advocacy endeavours with her professional career as a leadership coach and facilitator. A true believer in hands-on service, she and her husband, Michael, recently took their two children to complete their first Build in Mexico.

How do I “LiveDifferent”?

I LiveDifferent by staying rooted in my core values which are authenticity, generosity, and kindness. This alignment guides everything I do from the organizations I partner with to the friendships I nurture. I am driven by a deep desire to help people thrive, and I find my greatest fulfillment when I am working alongside others who are equally committed to making a difference. This organization is the perfect reflection of that shared purpose.

As our volunteer Manager of Operations in Mexico, Jacqueline oversees our staff, property, and build trips on the ground. She organizes the logistics of each home build while building a bridge between Mexican families and Canadian volunteers for mutually enriching relationships rooted in common humanity and dignity.

Having previously served as a Road Team Leader, Jacqueline brings an understanding of LiveDifferent’s mission at a deep and personal level. She also shares her own personal story of resilience as a keynote speaker at gala events, inspiring others through authenticity, hope, and purpose through service.

How do you “LiveDifferent”?
I “LiveDifferent” by owning my story and using what I’ve been through as fuel to serve others, spread hope, and build connections across cultures and life paths. I really hope to help people to turn their own experiences into strength and believe they can help others too.

Angelina’s role with LiveDifferent is to receive the applications that families send in when they are looking for support with a house. With the help of Ana, she determines which families we will Build with. She is also one of our gifted translators on-site and has strong connections with the community which makes her a huge asset to our team in Mexico.

How Do I “LiveDifferent”?
I love my job, I love connecting with people and meeting new people. It fascinates me and makes me very happy to see how families are so greatly blessed with beautiful houses where they can live, be protected and safe and have a better future.

Devin Hollis is a seasoned marketing executive and purpose-driven leader with over 25 years of experience building brands, driving strategic growth, and leading high-impact teams across North America. As Chairman of the Board at LiveDifferent, Devin brings a unique blend of business acumen and humanitarian passion to help guide the organization’s mission to empower youth and create lasting change in communities around the world.

Devin currently serves as Vice President of Marketing at OWD, a leading global logistics company, where he spearheads brand strategy, digital transformation, and customer experience initiatives. His career spans leadership roles at globally recognized organizations such as Movember, World Vision, Special Olympics, San Francisco General Hospital Foundation, and JAN Kelley Marketing, where he was instrumental in aligning business goals with social impact.

A longtime advocate for social good, Devin is deeply committed to equipping the next generation with tools for transformation, both locally and globally. His involvement with LiveDifferent began through hands-on volunteering in 2013 and has evolved into board leadership, where he leverages his strategic insight and fundraising skills to elevate the organization’s impact and reach. Devin resides in Southern California with his wife. He believes in the power of hope, compassion, and heart to change lives.

Kerry lives in Rosenort, MB, where, along with his beautiful wife, Barb, he has raised three amazing kids. Kerry and Barb had a dream of being a part of hope and change in a tangible way, so for Christmas 2008, they joined us in Mexico for their first LiveDifferent Build. That initial trip resulted in many more Builds and is also how Kerry ended up as the Chairman of our Board of Directors for 13 years. Kerry is a co-owner of Brandt Trucking, which is a family-run business. He heads up sales and marketing, and spends his days researching potential customers – and dreaming of when he can visit our LiveDifferent communities again! Kerry and Barb have a house full of teenagers. He is a volunteer firefighter in his own community, and from time to time, those fires are under his own roof! As our Chairman, Kerry is excited to be a part of what is happening at LiveDifferent. His support is evident in his kind words, thoughtful gifts and steak BBQs!

Paige Derksen Rodrigues is a dedicated realtor residing and working in Winnipeg. With a heart for community involvement, Paige’s journey with LiveDifferent began around ten years ago when her aunt, uncle, and cousins, who were already engaged with the organization, shared their experiences of participating in various builds. Inspired by their stories, Paige and her immediate family started attending LiveDifferent galas and providing financial support from the inception of the event.

Driven by a personal desire to contribute on a deeper level, Paige took the initiative to involve her work team in supporting the Freedom Village. Every year, a portion of their commissions from each transaction goes towards ensuring the safety and well-being of a girl living in the village.

Given her profession as a realtor, Paige recognizes the importance of secure housing and finds it fulfilling to give back to the community in this manner. Looking ahead, Paige’s goals for the upcoming year include embarking on her first build experience, making it a cherished annual tradition with her family.

When not engrossed in her demanding schedule, Paige finds solace in traveling, spending quality time with loved ones, exploring Winnipeg’s diverse culinary scene, and unwinding at home alongside her husband and beloved rescue pup, Patrik.

Will Bergmann grew up on the family operation, south of Winnipeg, and he and his wife, Jen, returned to the farm about seven years ago to farm and start their family. The farm was also acknowledged for its social media presence, with Will being known for championing agriculture through writing and photography that shares farm life with a wide audience. He is an advocate for LiveDifferent and has experienced our Canadian Youth Program firsthand by volunteering on one of our tours. It has been great to have him be a voice as a member of our Board of Directors.

Diederik Pen is the President of WestJet Airlines & WestJet Group Chief Operating Officer.

A passionate advocate for community and corporate social responsibility, Diederik first connected with LiveDifferent through WestJet’s long-standing humanitarian partnership.

In 2024, he and his wife, Hiske, joined a team of 50 WestJetters in the Dominican Republic to help build homes for families in need, an experience that deeply impacted him and his family. He returned the following spring with his daughter to explore the community as part of a project for her studies in architecture.

Diederik believes in leading with compassion and creating opportunities that empower others. His commitment to people and purpose aligns closely with LiveDifferent’s mission to inspire kindness and lasting change.

A member of Bunibonibee Cree Nation (also known as Oxford House), Sheila has seen firsthand how LiveDifferent’s youth empowerment programs are significantly impacting the lives of youth. Sheila is a great advocate for youth and for LiveDifferent. She is passionate about working to raise awareness about the national tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women and can be found actively building bridges to create greater awareness among Canadians with regards to Indigenous peoples. Sheila is also known for her work in media as a journalist for the CBC and a correspondent for CTV News. Additionally, Sheila has recently served as the Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) from 2015 to 2018. Sheila has developed an impressive skill set that we are thrilled to have added to our Board of Directors.

Kim’s first encounter with LiveDifferent was when she and her family joined us for a Build Trip in Mexico in 2008. Bitten by the “hope” bug, she has returned many times as a volunteer to our Mexico location, and even taken to hosting our road teams in her home in Winnipeg! For the past 12 years, Kim has been the CEO of WASO (Work and Social Opportunities), which supports adults living with intellectual disabilities. She comes to us with a wealth of experience in board governance and has focused experience in areas of finance, ethics, and human resources for non-profit agencies. We are glad to have her and look forward to working together in the days ahead.

Rob became aware of LiveDifferent in 2012 when a friend at WestJet asked him if he would help buy uniforms for school kids in Haiti. This adventure led him to meet Cole Brown on numerous occasions where they broke bread, drank wine, and dreamed of what might be possible in Haiti. Eventually, Rob was introduced to the CEO, Charles Roberts, and a plan to support LiveDifferent was hatched. More particularly, Rob wanted to be involved in the planning and execution of the build of the Freedom Village in Haiti. A long-term partnership was forged. Fortunately, Rob was asked to join the Board several years later and enthusiastically accepted. Rob brings to the LiveDifferent Board 28 years of legal experience, which has allowed him to support many charities over the past three decades. Through his involvement with Wheelchair Basketball Canada, Living Rock, Big Brothers Big Sisters (locally, provincially, and nationally) and his previous board experience with human trafficking organizations, he brings a great deal of additional experience and perspective. Rob was born and raised in small-town New Brunswick where he spends most of his summer. He resides with his partner, Jennifer, and her very active son, Harry, in downtown Hamilton.