Announcing our 2025 Board of Directors!
Thank you to all who came out to our 2025 Annual General Meeting x 30th Year Birthday Celebration on June 13th!
We were blessed with a great turnout and lots of representation from so many people involved in different chapters of VFM’s journey to become what it is today. It was so wonderful and special to gather and celebrate with you all!
We also had an election and the results are in! We had 6 seats open with 2 board members standing for re-election. We are pleased to announce that dedicated board members, Terry Burmas and Jeremy Dyson were re-elected to their seats – thanks Terry and Jeremy for all that you do!
Thank you so very much to our departing directors, you all have done so much for this organization, and wishing you the best in your next chapters:
- Ally Dick
- Joanne MacKinnon
- Jenny Marsh
- Elyse Crowston
And we are excited to welcome four new faces to the board of directors:
Ramneek Kingra
Ramneek Kingra is the Operations Manager at Mandair Farms, a family-run farm based in Abbotsford, British Columbia. Originally from Squamish, Ramneek moved to the Fraser Valley to pursue an undergraduate degree in Science—a move that serendipitously introduced her to the world of farming. What began as a casual summer job helping her now brother-in-law, Sajan, at local farmers markets soon blossomed into a full-time passion and career.
At Mandair Farms, Ramneek wears many hats. From marketing, sales, and bookkeeping to fieldwork and jam making, she is deeply involved in all aspects of the farm’s operations. Her dedication to sustainable farming and community engagement is reflected in every role she takes on, as she strives to promote fresh, locally grown produce throughout the Lower Mainland.
Beyond the farm, Ramneek continues to advocate for local food systems through her roles on the boards of both the Squamish and Whistler Farmers Markets. She brings her experience, insight, and unwavering enthusiasm to support and strengthen the local farming community.
Ramneek’s journey from science student to agricultural leader is a testament to her adaptability, passion, and commitment to meaningful, community-rooted work.
Bree Hayden
As a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems and community connection, I’m thrilled at the opportunity to serve on the Vancouver Farmers Markets Board of Directors! Many of you know me from my dedicated journey with VFM, as a loyal shopper, enthusiastic volunteer, Riley Park Summer Market Manager, and ultimately, Development Manager until October 2023. My heart is deeply rooted here.
Currently, as Manager of Philanthropy for Chor Leoni, I leverage my proven track record in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and strategic relationship building to foster thriving communities. My governance experience includes serving as Chair of the Board at City Gate Co-op, equipping me with essential insights into effective non-profit governance, collaborative leadership, and inclusive decision-making. Additionally, my active membership on Vancouver’s Food Policy Council aligns seamlessly with VFM’s mission to strengthen regional food systems and food security.
I’m excited about contributing my expertise in fundraising, governance, and community engagement to further VFM’s vision.
It is an honour to continue growing and nourishing our vibrant local markets together!
Tushar Shroff
Originally from New Delhi, India, Tushar is a food entrepreneur with a background in finance and a passion for global cuisine. The journey into food began during university in the U.S., where the lack of familiar Indian flavours sparked a deeper connection to cooking. After completing a Master’s in Finance and helping grow the family business in India, Tushar moved to Vancouver and launched Indish Foods Inc. in early 2020.
Since then, Indish has been closely involved with Vancouver Farmers Markets (VFM)—starting as a food truck and evolving into becoming a catering company, introducing packaged products and a stall vendor. This journey has created strong relationships with fellow vendors, staff, and market patrons. Indish has also proudly catered VFM’s annual holiday parties since 2021.
With a unique blend of entrepreneurial experience, financial acumen, and a deep understanding of vendor and customer perspectives, Tushar brings a well-rounded voice to the table. A strong belief in food as a vehicle for community, culture, and connection drives Tushar’s approach to business—and to market participation.
Committed to collaboration, growth, and inclusivity, Tushar is excited about the opportunity to contribute meaningfully as a board member and help shape the future of VFM from the inside out.
Monique Pongracic-Speier
Hello, my name is Monique. I’m a long-time attendee of the markets. I started with the Trout Lake market in its early days and went on to the monthly winter market at the Wise Hall, the fledgling West End Market and, more recently, the markets at Kits and Riley Park. I believe that forging connections between local producers and consumers builds solidarity and makes for healthier, more resilient communities.
In my day-to-day life, I am a litigation lawyer at Ethos Law Group LLP, where I focus on constitutional, administrative and Aboriginal law. I have a long history of advising and representing organizations in the not-for-profit sector. I hope to combine my skills with my passion for good food and strong communities, in service of the Vancouver Farmers Markets and the people the markets bring together.
Welcome & looking forward to collaborating with you all to continue to uplift our vibrant and welcoming Vancouver farmers markets!
