New Voices, Shared Vision: Welcoming Our 2025 Board Members

Earlier this year, after an open call for recruitment, the Community Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador proudly welcomed three new members to our Board of Directors: Mohsen Ali Heydari, Astrid Arumae, and Alysa O’Keefe.

Each brings a deep commitment to community and a wealth of experience across sectors, from economics and social innovation to law and the arts. Together, they help shape CFNL’s vision for a more connected, generous, and resilient Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mohsen Ali Heydari

Mohsen Ali Heydari is an economist with over 15 years of experience in economic modelling, financial analysis, and public policy development. He holds a PhD in Econometrics and has worked across academic, governmental, and private sectors to advance evidence-based decision-making.

Currently based in St. John’s, Mohsen is passionate about community development and inclusive economic planning, especially in support of immigrant communities and equity-seeking groups. His recent work includes designing ESG-aligned investment strategies and advising on regional development initiatives in Newfoundland and Labrador.

He is excited to bring his expertise and collaborative spirit to the CFNL board to help foster vibrant, resilient communities across the province.

Astrid Arumae

Community Builder, Coach, Field Catalyst, Social Entrepreneur & Climate Action Lead. Obsessed with possibilities of Place.

After 14 years in Montreal, Astrid is now based in Herring Neck, a beautiful small outport community in Central Newfoundland and Labrador. Astrid is passionate about place, nature, and being in service of community — and deeply devoted to making contributions through her work.

For three years, she worked with the Tamarack Institute supporting communities and local changemakers in developing strategies and shared goals. Before that, she spent over 15 years in operations, leadership, and project management in the private sector. In 2020, she founded a nonprofit in Montreal focusing on mutual aid, combating social isolation, and social innovation for sustainable local delivery and climate action projects.

A serial entrepreneur, Astrid has founded six businesses since 2004, two of which remain active today. She believes that community, connection, and belonging are essential to our wellbeing and is inspired by those who work to help shift systems and uplift others. Astrid is certain that when we lead with care and trust, we create environments where everyone can let their light shine.

Alysa O’Keefe

Alysa O’Keefe is an Associate Lawyer at Cox & Palmer, where she helps individuals and families plan for the future through wills, powers of attorney, health care directives, and estate administration. She takes pride in helping her clients protect what matters most.

Alysa earned her Juris Doctor and Certificate in Health Law from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University. Growing up in a family of business owners and health care providers, she learned early the value of hard work, compassion, and thoughtful planning — lessons that continue to guide her legal practice today.

Outside of her legal work, Alysa is deeply involved in the arts community. She serves on the Board of Directors with the Quintessential Vocal Ensemble and sings with the group as a chorister. With a Bachelor of Music (Honours) in Vocal Performance from Memorial University, she believes in the power of music and community-building. Her passion for advocacy, creativity, and connection strongly aligns with CFNL’s mission, and she is honoured to serve as a director.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to celebrate 25 years of community generosity in 2026, we’re inspired by the leadership and vision our new board members bring to CFNL. Together with our full Board of Directors, they help guide our work to strengthen communities — for today and for generations to come.