Board of Directors

Lynne McMullen, President

Lynne McMullen joined Chorus Aviation Inc. in January 2022. Prior to joining Chorus, Lynne held progressive leadership positions over 20 years with the Seneca School of Aviation. She was instrumental in developing training and recruitment programs with the RCAF, Jazz Aviation LP, Sunwing Airlines, and the Greater Toronto Airport Authority. Lynne has over 25 years experience as an instructor and pilot examiner. She was honoured to be the 2014 recipient of the Elsie MacGill Northern Lights Award in the Education category. Lynne enjoys working with industry through board positions with the Air Transport Association of Canada, Aviation Accreditation Board International, Northern Lights AeroFoundation, and Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame.

Anna Pangrazzi, Vice-President

As president and owner of Apex Aircraft Sales Ltd., Anna has over 25 years of experience negotiating hundreds of aircraft sales. She has been flying since 1977 and holds a multi-engine, commercial, instrument and float rating. She earned a degree in Economics from York University in 1985 and a second BA in Humanities in 2002. Anna is a member of AOPA, COPA, the International Organization of Women Pilots, The Ninety-Nines, Women in Aerospace Canada, and Women in Aviation International.

Kathleen Lang, Director

Kathleen received her private pilot’s certificate on St. Patrick’s Day in 1979. Exactly one year later she received her commercial certificate including a multi-engine instrument rating and proceeded to fly throughout North America for various individuals and corporations. During this time she also worked selling general aviation aircraft where she met and worked with the founder of NLAF, Anna Pangrazzi. In 1988, Kathleen left flying to work in the Aerospace industry to sell regional aircraft for Boeing Canada – de Havilland Division, flight training devices for Atlantis Aerospace, and commercial aircraft for Bombardier Inc. to airlines worldwide. Kathleen has also worked as Director in the Programs department at Bombardier in the development days of the C Series commercial aircraft family and as Director of Contracts for MHI RJ Aviation ULC.

Joy Parker Blackwood, Director

Joy was an owner and partner of Thoron Productions Limited and Bankten Communication Services Ltd., which produced major industrial shows and other event marketing activities throughout North America and Europe from the 1970s until 2006. Joy is currently President and owner of Waypointers, Inc. a seniors’ downsizing and relocation service. Joy received her Private Pilot certificate in 1982 and joined The Ninety-Nines, Inc. in 1983. Within the aviation industry she has served as 99s First Canadian Chapter Chairman, 99s East Canada Section Governor, Director, 99s International Board of Directors, and 99s Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarship Trust Chairman. She was inducted into the International Forest of Friendship in Atchison, Kansas in 2003. Joy was 1st Vice President and Treasurer of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) General Aviation Commission, Director of Marketing in the Aero Club of Canada, and Vice President of the Canadian Precision Flying Association. She is an FAI International Judge. Joy is also a member of Women In Aviation International, Women in Aerospace Canada, COPA, Silver Wings Fraternity, Commemorative Air Force, Canadian Air & Space Museum, and US Air Force National Museum.

Cathy Fraser, Director

Cathy Fraser is a retired B-787 Captain from Air Canada. Prior to her airline career, she flew corporate, charter and cargo flights. She also worked as a flight instructor and designated flight test examiner. She has been a Ninety-Nine for 40 years and has been a past governor of the East Canada Section, as well as an Amelia Earhart scholarship recipient. Other associations include ISA and Women in Aviation. Cathy is a past organizer of the biennial Canadian Women in Aviation conference and is currently a board member of the Northern Lights Aero Foundation.

Judy Cameron, Director

Judy became the first female pilot hired by Air Canada, Canada’s largest airline, in April 1978 at the age of 23. Throughout her flying career of 40 years and over 23,000 hours, she has flown the DC-3, Twin Otter, Hawker Siddeley 748, DC-9, Lockheed 1011, Airbus 320, Boeing 767 and 777. She retired in 2015, and then fulfilled a lifelong dream by taking an aerobatics course. Judy is an inspirational speaker and has volunteered with the Canadian Women in Aviation Conference, Dreams Take Flight, and Wings of Courage. In 2015, she received the Elsie MacGill Northern Lights award in the Flight Operations category, and in 2016 was chosen by The Ninety-Nines to be on their Canadian postage stamp. Judy was honoured as a member of the Order of Canada in 2021.

Julie Beverstein, Director

Julie has been flying for 25 years. She started flying lessons at the Island Airport while at the University of Toronto doing her Bachelor of Science degree; she then went to Seneca College to do the rest of her flight training. She was a flight instructor for five years before working for Air Georgian out of Toronto Pearson. She joined Porter Airlines in 2009 and for over 10 years, worked on many company programs and initiatives, including Assistant Chief Pilot, and Recruitment and Retention. In 2019, she joined Jazz Aviation as the Chief Pilot Line Operations in Toronto and currently holds the position of Director, Flight Operations. Julie is a Captain on the Q400 and supports pilot recruitment and works towards the promotion of engaging more women in aviation. She has been a member of the NLAF board since 2018.

Piyush Gandhi, Director

Piyush is an experienced executive in the field of aviation. He is currently the Vice President, Operations and Business Development for the Presage Group Inc., consulting airlines globally using their psychological science-based analytics to provide mitigation strategies that improve the safety and performance of those organizations. Most recently, he spent 2½ years with Sunwing Airlines as Vice President Flight Operations. Along with the oversight of more than 30,000 flights per year, he maintained his flying currency as a B737 Captain. Previously, he was the Vice President Flight Operations at Porter Airlines where he was a founding team member since its inception in early 2006. Prior to that, Piyush spent 10-years with Bombardier Aerospace as their Chief Pilot & Customer Liaison Pilot.

From 2018 to 2023, Piyush was on the Board of Directors for The Redwood – a shelter for women and their children fleeing domestic abuse. Piyush founded and chaired the Y.A.Y.! (You Are You!) diversity and inclusion committee at Sunwing and he also co-founded/chaired the Women Soar at Porter program. Piyush is a member of the Flight Safety Foundation Business Advisory Committee (FSF BAC). He has also been on the Advisory Boards for Colleges, and Universities, most notably, the Seneca College Aviation PAC.

Piyush graduated the Seneca Aviation Program (Class ’93) and he completed an MBA graduate degree at the Rotman School of Business (UofT) in 2014. Piyush’s two daughters inspire him everyday to push for gender equality and inclusion.

Caroline Rose, Director

Caroline has worked as a Marketing & Communications Supervisor for a growing international airport, as well as Marketing Manager for one of the top flight schools in Canada. She currently works in Communications for a municipality. She officially joined the aviation industry in 2016 and has enjoyed every moment since. She’s worked on campaigns and events to promote careers in aviation and inspire women to consider a future in the industry, such as FlyCanada, Girls Can Fly and Aviation Fun Day. She also volunteers as a mentor and provides support and encouragement for aspiring young professionals.

Caroline has an extensive career in marketing and communications, as well as volunteerism. She worked for a marketing agency for more than 10 years and was employed in the non-profit sector for seven years. She has volunteered for more than 20 years in numerous capacities for various non-profit organizations, including aviation.

She has an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies & History from Wilfrid Laurier University and is a graduate of the Niagara College Public Relations program. She has been recognized for 20 years of volunteer service by the Government of Ontario, as well as other volunteer recognition awards.

Heather McGonigal, Director

Heather has been a professional pilot for over 25 years. She began her flying career as a flight instructor and progressed through various pilot positions and aircraft types for regional airlines over the years. In addition to flying, Heather has enjoyed fulfilling management roles such as Director of Flight Operations, Flight Attendant Manager, and Safety Manager, which enabled her to contribute to effective organizational change for the companies for which she worked. She was on the Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) Board of Directors for 9 years and was also the Chair for a term period. Heather has a passion for coaching and mentoring and often volunteers her time to promote aviation and teach classes on Canadian Aviation Regulations at local aviation colleges. In 2017, she was a recipient of the Elsie MacGill Northern Lights Award in the Flight Operations category.

Heather is the Assistant Vice-President, Stakeholder & Industry Relations at NAV CANADA. Her current role enables continued collaboration with her industry peers and supports an aligned aviation ecosystem.

Kathy Fox, Director

Kathy Fox chose air traffic control as a career, first with Transport Canada, and then with NAV CANADA where she held a number of senior management positions, including the first female Vice President Operations, from which she retired in 2007. Kathy was subsequently appointed as a Board Member of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) and served as its Chair from 2014 to 2024.

Kathy has also been extensively involved in other aviation activities for over 50 years, including sport parachuting and commercial aviation. She holds an airline transport pilot licence, multi-IFR and Instructor Class I ratings and has flown over 5000 hours. In December 2024, Kathy was appointed Honorary Colonel of the RCAF’s 412 Transport Squadron.

Kathy was the first female and youngest President of the Canadian Sport Parachuting Association. She received the Transport Canada Aviation Safety Award in 1999. In November 2004, she was inducted into the Quebec Air and Space Hall of Fame. Kathy is also the recipient of the 2010 Elsie MacGill Northern Lights Award. In 2011, Kathy was awarded the prestigious David Charles Abramson Memorial (DCAM) Flight Instructor Safety Award, recognizing her exceptional leadership and devotion to the advancement of Canadian aviation safety. In June 2016, Kathy was inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame, only the 10th woman to be so recognized. In 2018, she was inducted into the International Women in Aviation Pioneer Hall of Fame.

Vision

To expand opportunities and enhance the success of women in aviation and aerospace while supporting the Northern Lights Aero Foundation vision in Canada.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the growth of women in aviation and aerospace through education, advocacy, and encouragement, while creating a safe, inclusive learning environment.

The Junior Board will raise awareness of the Northern Lights Aero Foundation and further the impact of the organization.

Rebecca Van Snick, President

Rebecca Van Snick is a commercial pilot and currently flies for Jazz Aviation as a First Officer on the Q400. In 2015, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of New Brunswick. After working 5 years in engineering and project management with Bell Canada, she found and subsequently fell in love with aviation.

She graduated from Brampton Flight Centers’ Integrated Airline Transport Pilot License program at the top of her class, and shortly after moved to Yellowknife to pursue her career as a pilot. There, Rebecca flew a Twin Otter on floats, wheels, and skis as a First Officer with Air Tindi.

Rebecca feels passionately about promoting and supporting women in aviation and aerospace and has held volunteer roles with the Ninety-Nines, Women in Aviation International, Elevate Aviation and more. She is extremely proud to be Vice President of the NLAF Junior Board of Directors and looks forward to continuing to further the impact of the NLAF vision in Canada.

Toka Abu Jaib, Vice-President

From Neuroscience to Aviation, Toka is currently a First Officer at PAL Airlines flying the De-Havilland Canada Q400 aircraft. Prior to pursuing a career as a pilot, Toka graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta in Edmonton in 2018. With no family in aviation and feeling lost in her career choices, she found aviation and immediately fell in love after a discovery flight. She was admitted into the British Columbia Institute of Technology in Vancouver for the Airline and Flight Operations program in 2020, where she completed her Private Pilot License. Despite the challenges along the way and the unforeseen circumstances of COVID era, with determination and motivation, Toka was able to finish her flight training in 2022 and completed her Commercial Pilot License in Edmonton and Multi-engine Instrument Rating in Ontario. She took her first job as a Survey Pilot flying across Canada and the United States where she was able to build her experience and hours to fulfill her new dream of joining the Airlines.

Toka is an active volunteer for the Air Line Pilot Association (ALPA), Elevate Aviation, Canadian Women in Aviation (CWIA) and a member of the Urban Pilots Network (UPN). She can always be found helping fellow aviators and aviatrices succeed in the Aviation World.

Aryan Ganatra, Treasurer

Aryan is a graduate of the Honours Bachelor of Aviation Technology program at Seneca Polytechnic and holds an Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (IATPL). His aviation journey began at age 12 through the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Program at 800 Black Forest Squadron, where he earned both his Glider and Power Pilot Licences.

During his time at Seneca, Aryan served as President of the School of Aviation Student Council, where he led several impactful initiatives — including the creation of a Pilot-2-Pilot mentorship program, an Aviation Gala, and a series of Flight Safety Newsletters — all of which contributed to a stronger, more connected campus community. He also gained valuable experience working as a Flight Coordinator at NovaJet, where he developed a standardized training supplement still in use by the operations team. Later, as a Student Support Officer with Seneca, he supported school initiatives through event planning and social media management.

Aryan is currently working toward his Flight Instructor Rating and remains actively involved in aviation outreach. As Treasurer and Co-Host of The Blue Skies Podcast with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation, he helps manage the organization’s finances while spotlighting inspiring stories and voices from across the industry to advance NLAF’s mission nationwide.

Trisha Virdee, Secretary

Trisha is a Multi-IFR student pilot at Seneca Polytechnic, aspiring to become an instructor, fly up north and join the airlines. Her ultimate dream is to continue her studies and join the aerospace industry as a future astronaut. Trisha the Vice-President of the School of Aviation Student Council, leading opportunities such as the Seneca Pilot-2-Pilot Mentorship program, Student Mentorship, and organizing the annual FPR Aviation Gala. Trisha is also a Canadian Armed Forces reservist. She had joined the naval division, HMCS York, back in 2018 and is a First Aid instructor, Cook and Mess Executive for the Junior Ranks. She is a Ninety-Nine and the Social Media Rep for the First Canadian Chapter. Outside of flying, Trisha has been teaching piano for the last 5 years and is a competitive swimmer and lifeguard.

Neghat Hidari, Director

Neghat Hidari, from Mount Brydges, Ontario is doing her Commercial Pilot’s License at Diamond Flight Centre while completing her Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Seneca Polytechnic. Alongside her academic pursuits and flight training, Neghat works as a Lead Mentor in Seneca’s Peer Mentoring program, guiding first-year students through their college integration. She also works as a ramp agent and dispatcher at Diamond Flight Centre. Finally, she has started working as a settlement worker with London’s leading newcomer agency, Cross-Cultural Learner Centre where she helps refugees settle and integrate with the London community. Neghat extends her passion for aviation in her community by volunteering for Elevate Aviation, she is also an active member of the Urban Pilot’s Network and Women in Aviation International.

Alivia Chanyi, Director

Alivia joined Jazz Aviation as a First Officer on the CRJ in August of 2023. She is an Alumni of the Conestoga College Aviation program where she graduated from in March of 2023. Alivia found her passion for aviation after a sightseeing flight when she was 15 and began her flight training soon after.

In 2022, Alivia was the Central Canada Finalist in the Webster Memorial Trophy Competition in Kelowna, BC. This was an incredible experience for her as she developed her skills as a pilot and made new industry connections.

As a first-generation female pilot, Alivia looks for ways to continue promoting women in aviation, through volunteering with organizations, such as the The Ninety-Nines, Women in Aviation International and the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. She also volunteers with Special Olympics, Dreams Take Flight, Jazz Aviation, and the Airline Pilots Association as a member of the Education Committee.

She is very excited to be on the Junior Board of Directors with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation, where she is currently a co-lead of the Outreach Committee.

Alexandra Patterson, Director

Alexandra is an Honours Commercial Aviation Management student at Western University, combining business studies with flight training as she works toward her Private Pilot License. With aspirations of becoming a Captain, her aviation journey began with the encouragement of her parents, who recognized her passion for flight from an early age. Alongside her studies, Alexandra works as a student ambassador for the admissions department at Western University where she supports incoming students with the transition to University life. 

She is an active member of her chapter in both Women In Aviation International and the Ninety-Nines, where she contributes as a designer for the East Canada Section Newsletter. Additionally, she is a Co-Lead of the Social Media Committee with the Northern Lights Aero Foundation. As a strong advocate for increasing the representation of women within the industry, Alexandra takes pride in her role as a Mentor both through her university and with Women in Aviation International. Through her volunteer efforts she is dedicated to supporting the next generation in navigating different aviation career paths and finds fulfillment in empowering young professionals wherever she can.

Grace Bastien, Director

Grace is currently a First Officer flying the Embraer 195 E2 at Porter Airlines. Her love for flying started at a young age while flying around in small airplanes with her father, who is also a pilot. After spending many years as a passenger in general aviation aircraft, Grace decided to pursue a career as an
airline pilot. Beginning her flight training right after high school at Seneca College, she earned her pilot’sblicenses and a Bachelor of Aviation Technology graduating in 2016. After building flying hours as a flight instructor, Grace achieved her goal of becoming an airline pilot in 2022 as a First Officer on the Dash 8 at Porter Airlines.

Grace has always been passionate about giving back to her aviation community with a particular interest in inspiring women and girls to get involved in the industry. To share this passion, Grace has volunteered at many events, participated in research studies, acted as a mentor to young female pilots,
and has appeared as a guest on the talk show Empowered with Elizabeth. Currently, Grace is the co-lead of the Speakers Bureau committee with NLAF and aspires to one day become an airline captain.

Kyra Jarvis, Director

Kyra Jarvis is currently a First Officer on the B737 at Sunwing Airlines. Originally from Nova Scotia, she began flight training at the Annapolis Valley Flight Training Centre, where she had the privilege of experiencing the stunning views of flying along the east coast. During their time at university, Kyra became one of the first electric plane research assistants for WISA, where they had the unique opportunity to study Canada’s first type-certified electric aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, based at the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC). In her final year of flight training at WWFC, she also served as the student body representative for their safety operations.

As an alumnus of the University of Waterloo’s Science and Aviation program, Kyra has had the pleasure of participating in various alumni events, mentorship programs, and women in aviation initiatives supported by the community. She has also volunteered with organizations such as the Ninety-Nines, Elevate Aviation, and Women in Aviation International. In 2023, she was honoured to receive the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship.

Simran Manocha, Director

Simran is an Aviation Risk Underwriter/Consultant with a strong passion for the Aviation Industry. Her journey began at the age of 13 when she joined the Air Cadets, setting the foundation for a career dedicated to Aviation. She went on to pursue her Science degree at the University of Waterloo with a specialized focus in Aviation. Over the years, she has gained extensive industry experience, including her time at Bombardier Aerospace, where she developed a strong technical understanding of the sector, working alongside AMEs and CAT-1 Inspectors.

Currently, Simran is pursuing her Executive MBA at the Schulich School of Business while also completing her Certified Insurance Professional (CIP) designation. She is further expanding her Aviation expertise by working toward her Private Pilot License (PPL) at Brampton Flight Centre.

Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, Simran is an avid traveler who enjoys exploring new destinations. She also prioritizes fitness, spending her free time working out, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family.

Chanelle Wilson, Director

Chanelle recently completed her Commercial Pilot License at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta, and is currently working for AirSprint Private Aviation in a ground-to-flight operations position. At her graduation ceremony, she earned the AirSprint Award, presented to a student who demonstrates strong academic achievement and aligns with the company’s core values.

Her aviation journey began in her hometown of Vernon, BC, after attending a flight camp at age 15. Her first flight in a Cessna 172 sparked a lifelong passion for flying, leading her to earn her Private Pilot License in 2022 and now her CPL.

Chanelle is actively involved in the aviation community and is passionate about empowering the next generation of women in aviation. She is a member of The Ninety-Nines, Women in Aviation International, and Elevate Aviation. She volunteers regularly at events such as open houses, airshows, and Elevate’s national tour and annual gala, and mentors student pilots. Beyond aviation, she has also coached youth in volleyball and ringette, contributing to her community through sport and leadership.

She is a two-time recipient of the Captain Judy Cameron Scholarship, sponsored by Air Canada, and was awarded an RCAF Foundation Scholarship in recognition of her academic achievement and leadership in aviation.
Chanelle is honoured to serve on the Northern Lights Aero Foundation Junior Board of Directors and is excited to support the Foundation’s mission to celebrate and advance women in aviation and aerospace.