Meet the Executive
Meet the executive and women who lead our organization. Learn about their backgrounds, where they're from, and the contributions they’re making to drive our success.
Joan Duncan | President
I was born in Winnipeg and have lived in several cities across Canada. My favourite city was Victoria where I had my own executive coaching business, before retiring and moving to the North Shore with my husband and labradoodle, 4 years ago.
We wanted to be closer to children as well as twin grandsons on the mainland and love everything about the North Shore. It’s been a great decision to relocate! There are lots of options for foodies like me as well as beautiful scenery and trails to explore.
I have belonged to 3 Newcomer Clubs now and think it’s a great way to get established socially in a new community. We try new coffee shops and restaurants, go to movies, and walks all over the North Shore with wonderful new friends. I love meeting women from all over Canada and the world and hearing their stories!
Shirl Morrell Johnson |
Vice President
I’m a Prairie Flatlander loving North Shore living ! My husband and I made our move to North Vancouver just over 4 years ago. A friend introduced me to the Newcomers Club and I’m so grateful that she did.
Newcomers has helped make this transition in my life an easier and enjoyable one.
Maureen Moyls |
Activities Coordinator
Born and raised in North Vancouver, BC, I began my professional journey in Toronto, ON, where I relocated in 1996 for work. After spending 24 years in Toronto, I took early retirement in 2020 and moved back to North Vancouver.
While returning home was exciting, I found it challenging to make new connections and build a social circle. That changed when a friendly realtor introduced me to a neighbor in my condo building, who then introduced me to the Newcomers Club.
In my role as Activities Coordinator, I’m passionate about creating fun, engaging events that help newcomers connect and settle into their new community. With a background in MS Office platforms, particularly Word, I manage our Monthly Activities Calendar, ensuring everything runs smoothly and is easy for everyone to access.
It’s a rewarding experience to help foster new friendships and support people as they navigate their own journeys of settling into the area.
I’m excited to be part of this wonderful club and look forward to continuing to build a welcoming and vibrant environment for all members!
Jackie O’Farrell | Membership
I am originally from Montreal and attended Nursing College in Toronto. I worked many years abroad and in the US. I retired 2 years ago and moved to North Vancouver to be closer to family. Joining the Newcomers Club last year was a game changer for me!
It has been such a lovely way to make new friends, socialize and explore all the North Shore has to offer!
Silvia Elfert |
Treasurer
I came to Canada from Germany with my husband and 2 kids in 1977 and have always lived in BC. We lived for over 40 years in the interior, the “Boundary area” which is nestled between the Okanagan and the Kootenays, before moving to the lower mainland in 2013.
By then I had retired from a career in banking and accounting. We lived in different communities in the greater Vancouver area, before moving to NorthVancouver in March of 2022.
I am fortunate to have my family close by, because in February 2023 I lost my husband of 52 years to cancer and had to rearrange my life.
My daughter found an ad for the West Vancouver Newcomer’s Club and encouraged me to join, and I am glad I did. I was greeted by a group of wonderful women, making me feel welcome and connected right away. I am looking forward to starting new friendships and making new memories, and sharing laughs and stories with our great group.
I just started the position as treasurer and I am happy to help with the running of this organisation.
Judy Davies |
Secretary
I moved to beautiful North Vancouver from Ottawa in the summer 2023. My daughters had already made the move west, and so a few years after retiring from teaching I decided to join them.
The decision was made easier knowing I would also be closer to my 3 young granddaughters ….sleepovers and babysitting!
I joined the North Shore Newcomers Club shortly after moving here and have met so many lovely women. This club has provided me with a variety of activities to enjoy as I explore my ‘new home’.
I like hiking, biking, pickleball and exploring all the North Shore has to offer. As the club Secretary this year I am also getting the chance to improve my tech skills!