Lou-ann Neel to Lead REFBC’s Grants and Community Initiatives Team 

The Real Estate Foundation of BC is thrilled to announce that Lou-ann Neel has joined our team as the Director of Grants and Community Initiatives.  

Lou-ann is from the Kwakwaka’wakw (Kwak’wala-speaking people). Originally from Alert Bay, BC, she has lived and worked much of her life in the lands of the Lekwungen, also known as Victoria, BC. She brings extensive leadership experience from senior roles with First Nations, public sector, non-profit, and philanthropic organizations. She is also an accomplished and practicing visual artist. 

In her most recent role as Indigenous Lead at Creative BC, Lou-ann was responsible for the design and launch of a new program sponsored by Rogers Group of Funds to support Indigenous filmmakers and drive the advancement and growth of this province’s creative industries with a focus on emerging Indigenous filmmakers.

“I am excited to join this wonderful team of professionals who are doing excellent in support of communities around the province; and I am thankful to the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil- Waututh peoples for the opportunity to live and work in the lands of their Ancestors.”

— Lou-ann Neel, Director of Grants and Community Initiatives.

“We’re looking forward to starting the year with Lou-ann joining the REFBC team,” shared Mark Gifford, CEO. “Beyond the leadership, passion, and experience she brings to building relationships with people and communities across BC – her fun, warmth and positivity shines through!”

As Lou-ann steps into this new role, we’d like to extend our sincere and utmost gratitude to Senior Grants Manager Jen McCaffrey who stepped into the role of Acting Director from February – December 2025. Her steady and warm-hearted leadership has been essential through several transitions in the past year. Jen leads with remarkable care and dedication that have laid a strong foundation for Lou-ann’s success at REFBC.

Please extend a warm welcome to Lou-ann at lou.ann@refbc.ca.