Board of Directors
Mangalam Lena is originally from Sri Lanka, born to a family of eleven children whose parents were caring and deeply spiritual Christians. She specializes in outreach to people who are despised and rejected by society. At the age of seventeen she decided to dedicate her life to serve humanity and entered the religious order of the Franciscan Missionary of Mary.
In Canada, she received a B.A in Theology, an M.A in Pastoral Studies, and a Doctor in Ministry Degree at St. Paul University in Ottawa. I took a course in the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution, Third Party Neutral (TPN). One of her greatest achievements in Canada was founding a pilot non-profit organization called Home-Based Spiritual Care to provide spiritual and religious care to the home-bound sick, the elderly and the lonely.
Lewis Cardinal is a communicator and educator from the Sucker Creek Cree First Nation in Treaty No. 8 in northern Alberta. For over three decades, his leadership has spanned local, national, and global advocacy roles, particularly in promoting Indigenous rights, cultural revitalization, urban Indigenous advocacy and capacity development, and interfaith relationship building. His contributions have been recognized with honours such as two Queen Elizabeth II medals (Diamond and Platinum Jubilee), the Indspire Award for Public Service, the Alberta Centennial Medal for Human Rights and Diversity, and an honourary doctorate of Sacred Letters from St. Stephen’s College at the University of Alberta for his work in bridging cultural and faith divides. And Lewis was recently installed as the 11th Chancellor of St. Stephen’s College at the University of Alberta.
These experiences inform every facet of his consulting and media production work, where he specializes in Indigenous education, communications, governance, and strategic project development. Above all, he remains guided by a lifelong commitment to nurturing sacred relationships among diverse communities and worldviews.
I was born in Rangoon, Burma. My parents were Harry Zaw-Tun and Khin Khin Tway.
We left Burma in 1968, via Ethiopia and Tanzania, and ended up here in Canada in 1973. I came to know of MRA, which became IofC, in 1977. I worked at the Bocock farm for a couple of summers while I was an Agriculture student. The Bococks have known MRA/IofC for many years. I participated in Caux in 1979. I have never been officially a member of IofC but have participated in some of their events, here in Alberta and BC. I work part-time as a church administrator. I volunteer at the carving shop at the Fort Edmonton Park, and with the Sculptors Association of Alberta.
I have three grown children, and a grandson. My husband is Dr. Sunil Datar who doesn't seem to want to retire. I live on an acreage outside of St. Albert, Alberta. I consider Jack Freebury to be my mentor along with the Bococks who stood as my godparents.
I am originally from Nigeria and have settled in Canada, in Montreal, since my retirement. I retired from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Headquartered in Montreal, first in 2015 and finally in 2018, after about 26 years of service altogether. ICAO is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for the global regulation of the international civil aviation system. It sets the standards for ensuring the safety, security and efficiency of civil aviation and monitors the implementation of those standards by the 193 member countries.
I hold a Masters degree in Air Transport (from France) and I am able to work in both English and French. Since retirement, I have enrolled in part time studies in Theology. I am presently studying for a Masters degree in theology from Université Laval, having first obtained a Certificate in Pastoral Studies.
Our Team
Amalilly is the Administrator at Initiatives of Change (IofC) Canada, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to her role. Her educational background includes diplomas in Park and Forest Recreation, Advanced Business Administration, and even a transport truck license. She has held significant roles in administration and community engagement, where she has supported organizations with precision and empathy.
Born and raised in Ottawa's West End, where she currently resides, Amalilly has strong roots in her community. As a Chronic Illness Warrior, she has honed her ability to navigate challenges with grace and determination. And, outside of her professional life, Amalilly enjoys exploring spiritual practices, engaging in thoughtful conversations, and the company of her two beloved cats.