Executive Team

Aly Jamani

President

Aly has this amazing ability to grab your attention the second he steps on stage. He’s a master at using vivid words, expressive body language, and killer storytelling which makes him one of the standout speakers in our club. What’s more? He is extremely attractive! This term, Aly is taking on the role of President, where he’ll work his magic to plan, organize, and lead our club, making sure it meets the needs of all Metro Speakers members.

• Member since: October 2018
• Past roles: Vice President of Education

Carina Albrecht

Vice President of Education

Carina brings her passion for education to her role as VP of Education at Metro Speakers. Her journey began as a member, seeking to conquer her fear of public speaking, and has since led her to a position of leadership. Professionally, Carina is currently pursuing a PhD, a testament to her love for education, and is also a university instructor, showcasing her commitment to improving her public speaking skills.

With an unwavering enthusiasm for learning, Carina is dedicated to supporting every club member in finding their voice and sharing their stories with the world. Whether you’re looking for resources to help you refine your presentation skills, navigate your Toastmasters journey, or overcome the nerves of your first speech, Carina is there to provide guidance and support.

• Member since: October 2018
• Past roles: N/A

Yang Su

Vice President of Membership

Yang Su, based in Burnaby, British Columbia, is a versatile problem solver with degrees in electrical engineering and microbiology. He currently excels as a Staff Software Engineer at ApplyBoard and co-hosts the VanCity Live Podcast, giving voice to Vancouver’s community stories. Curious about people and their experiences, Yang strives to connect and inspire. Passionate about continuous learning and improvement, he enjoys mentoring, snowboarding in winter, and running in summer. While skeptical of AI and LLM hype, he relies on ChatGPT to save time, such as writing this bio in a record 15 minutes

• Member since: Dec 2021
• Past roles: N/A

Tamlyn Mafika

Vice President of Public Relations

As a passionate member of Toastmasters, Tamlyn is committed to continuous personal and professional growth. She joined Toastmasters to refine her public speaking skills and enhance her leadership abilities, believing that effective communication is the cornerstone of success.

Tamlyn’s approach to public relations is grounded in authenticity and strategic thinking. She excels at building and nurturing relationships, and developing creative strategies that elevate the MetroSpeakers experience.

Outside of her toastmasters role, Tamlyn is an avid volunteer, contributing her time and efforts to local non-profits and community organizations. She also enjoys exploring new cultures through travel, experimenting with culinary creations, and staying active through tennis.

• Member since: 2024
• Past roles: N/A

Johnny Zhou

Secretary

Johnny has been a member of Toastmasters since 2022. Throughout his journey, he has actively participated in numerous club activities and has shown a keen interest in enhancing his communication and leadership skills. 

As Secretary, Johnny is dedicated to maintaining accurate records of club meetings and activities, ensuring smooth communication within the club, and supporting the executive team in their efforts to help members achieve their goals.

Member since: 2022

Past roles: N/A

Phillippe Rochon

Treasurer

Known for his dry sense of humour and monotone voice, Phil has been coming to Toastmasters for some time and keeps saying he’s working on his next big speech. He’s put out a few hits in the past and is always happy to take on roles at the weekly meetings (especially when food is involved). Phil works as a Marine Structural Engineer and has a competitive spirit which can be seen from his participation in several running and cycling events that he’s participated in over the years as well as the odd Mario Kart tournament.

As Treasurer, Phil will set a healthy budget for the club, monitor expenses, and collect membership fees to keep the club running in tip top shape.

Member since: 2019

Past roles: N/A

Anthony Chen

Sergeant at Arms

Within 2 months of joining Toastmasters, Anthony was so determined to improve his presentation and leadership skills that he took up the role of Sergeant At Arms.

As Sergeant At Arms, Anthony’s main responsibility is supplying the meeting with all the necessary tools and giving meeting announcements, which requires a highly organized individual such as Anthony.

His vision is to make a meaningful impact in his company and community by helping others discover their true potential and it all starts at Metrospeakers!

Member since: 2024

Past roles: N/A

René Gavidia

Immediate Past President

René provides feedback that may sometimes carry a hint of cynicism and resentment, but his gentle demeanor makes him incredibly personable. If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting René before, you may have heard members sharing amusing tales about him during table topics, such as his love for drinking water. Despite being the subject of such stories, René takes it all in good fun.

René has served as the President, Treasurer and VP of Education in our club. He took on these roles in the executive team during the pandemic when club morale was down and push the club forward alongside the president at the time. With his leadership, Metro Speakers embarked on an enjoyable journey of public speaking during his tenure as President.

Member since: 2018

Past roles: President, VP of Education, Treasurer