Justin Taverna, President
Justin is the co-founder of First Light Technologies Ltd., a Victoria based company that designs and manufacturers solar and LED lighting products. With over 15 years’ experience designing off grid solar electric systems, he has previously been involved in PODA as their photovoltaic expert. Other volunteer projects include providing solar electric design and technical support for Partners in Health in Haiti, and for multiple schools within BC.
Justin earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Montana State University and a B.S. in Physics from Wheeling Jesuit University. When not on the phone spreading the good word of solar lighting, he enjoys spending time surfing in the brisk waters of the Pacific Northwest, and hiking with his family, friends, and dogs.
Kathy Buettner, Secretary
Kathy is a Policy Analyst for the Ministry of Advanced Education within the Government of BC. She has been a keen supporter and volunteer of PODA before becoming a Board Member. She is also a sighted guide for blind/visually impaired members of her dragon boat team, Outta Sight, sponsored by the BC Blind Sports and Recreation Association.
Kathy had the opportunity to visit Uganda along with other PODA supporters in August 2017 and loved the opportunity that she had to work with the students and teachers at the school. Kathy holds a Bachelor’s degree in both Sociology and Education from the University of Victoria, and she is certified to teach ESL.
Barb Gordon, Treasurer
Barb is a small business owner in Victoria, BC. She specializes in providing accounting, work flow assessments and efficiency reviews to small for-profit and non-profit businesses. She has been on the Board of PODA since 2009 and has made several trips to Uganda. While in Uganda Barb spends time reviewing existing initiatives and laying the groundwork for future projects.
Barb has a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management from Royal Roads University. She enjoys hiking, a good book and great food. Barb can frequently be found on Galiano Island where her daughter and grand-daughter live.
Jane Morrison, Director at Large
Jane has a BA in Economics from Queen’s University and until recently worked for the Municipal Finance Authority of BC. Now retired she has turned her attention to volunteering and is happy to become a new member of the PODA board.
Jane visited Uganda in August 2017 which expanded her interest in the work of PODA and she hopes to contribute to the amazing work that they do by spending time doing research for projects. Jane enjoys travelling first and foremost, but also loves camping, hiking, cooking and spending time out with her dogs.