The Board of Directors is responsible for governing the affairs of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce on behalf of its members. The Board structure and the method for selection are specified in the Aurora Chamber’s bylaws. The Directors are elected by the membership at the Annual General Meeting.
The 2026-2027 Board of Directors were inducted by Mayor Mrakas at the Aurora Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on August 27, 2026.
DAVID OLESEN, CHAIR
David, with a dual professional practice as a business, commercial, finance and real estate (transactions/development) lawyer, while also being an advisor to the management of various enterprises, offers a unique and valuable blend of skills developed throughout a successful career working with a vast array of legal clients and business operators from start-ups and sole proprietors through to small and medium sized enterprises engaged across many different industries and countries, David provides key insight into interacting with governments and the public sector having acted as the Director of Policy and Senior Advisor to Ontario’s Minister of Finance.
JENNIFER WALKER, VICE CHAIR
Jennifer works with both businesses and individuals to assess their financial needs and goals. She has over 30 years’ of experience and education as a Certified Financial Planner, a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist, a Certified Health Specialist, a Responsible Investment Specialist, a Master Financial Planner – Philanthropy and most recently completely her 3Hs of Financial Planning – Holistic, Honest and Human. These certifications, along with her reputation have made her a sought after advisor and speaker. In her “spare time”, Jennifer is a mother of three children – ok, 2 are technically adults, and is busy with extended family and school activities.
ALEX HERRINGTON, TREASURER
As a local business owner, educator, and mentor, Alex brings a strong passion for supporting the growth of young people through artistic expression. As the owner of The North Dance Company, she has spent the past six years building a business rooted in connection, creativity, and opportunity while mentoring young dancers and contributing to community events. As a member of the Board of Directors, she is committed to bringing a fresh perspective, collaborative leadership, and a strong understanding of small business and community engagement to the organization.
JULIEN LAURION, SECRETARY
Julien Laurion, Owner of Julien Laurion Real Estate, proudly serves on the Executive Board of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce. Born and raised in Aurora, Julien has built his career around what he knows best—homes. From guiding families through the real estate market to rolling up his sleeves on renovation projects, he combines expertise with a genuine passion for helping people create spaces they love. With deep community roots and years of volunteer service in York Region, Julien brings energy, insight, and a strong commitment to fostering growth and connection within the Aurora business community.
ELLEN CAMPBELL, DIRECTOR
As CEO & Founder for the Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness, the name Ellen Campbell has become synonymous with abuse prevention and recovery in Canada. In recognition of her work and the national influence achieved by CCAA, in December 2006, the Honorable Vic Toews, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada appointed Ms. Campbell to The Minister’s Advisory Committee on Judicial Appointments for Ontario, a position that she continued to hold until 2010. Ellen has received numerous awards and recognition for her work, including the Order of Ontario and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
DEVIN CATTELAN, DIRECTOR
Devin Cattelan is a Portfolio Manager at Verecan Capital Management Inc and a seasoned investment professional with extensive experience helping high-net-worth families, charitable foundations, and business owners make smarter financial decisions. Quoted in The Globe and Mail, Financial Post, Reuters, and MSN Money, Devin brings a steady voice to a fast-moving industry, offering insight on markets, investment strategy, and wealth planning. He is an avid traveler, lifelong hockey player, and enjoys spending his downtime with his wife and newborn son.
CHRIS ELWOOD, DIRECTOR
Chris brings over 30 years of automotive industry experience, with a strong background in sales leadership, fixed operations, and customer experience. He is a graduate of the NADA Dealer Management School and has received formal training through the Disney Institute in customer experience and service excellence.As General Manager of NewRoads Aurora Toyota, Chris leads a high-performing team focused on delivering results while maintaining a strong commitment to customer and employee satisfaction and strong community engagement.Chris is passionate about supporting local business growth and contributing to the continued success of the Aurora business community. He resides locally with his wife, Melissa, and their four daughters.
SAARAH KHAMISSA, DIRECTOR
Saarah is Co-Owner of Omar's Shoes, a multi-generational family business that has proudly served Aurora for over 55 years. Born and raised in Aurora, Saarah has spent her career growing the family business through leadership in retail operations, strategic planning, customer experience, and business development. A graduate of Seneca Polytechnic's Fashion Business Management program, she brings entrepreneurial insight, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to community. Saarah is honoured to serve on the Aurora Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and looks forward to supporting local businesses and contributing to Aurora's continued growth. Outside of work, Saarah values family time with her husband and young daughter.
JOHN LONG, DIRECTOR
John is the Director of HVAC Service at Smith & Long, a locally based Canadian multi-trade contracting firm. With over 35 years experience in the Commercial HVAC sector, he serves on the Board of Directors for ORAC (Ontario Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Contractors Association) and on various industry committees focused on education, training, safety, and standards. A strong advocate for the skilled trades, John is committed to attracting and inspiring the next generation of tradespeople. Since starting as an HVAC technician in 1989, John has progressed through a variety of senior leadership roles, overseeing operations, sales, and project delivery both locally and abroad. John lives in the community with his wife Rose and their daughter Rachel.
OLIVIA SOAVE, DIRECTOR
AMANDA VESTERFELT, DIRECTOR
Amanda is an accomplished business professional with a career spanning over 21 years. Her dedication to the hospitality industry led her to Aurora, where she has made significant contributions to the local hotel and business community. Currently, Amanda serves as the General Manager of Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Aurora. She is passionate about hospitality, leadership, and creating positive experiences for both guests and her team. She also enjoys being involved in the Aurora community and building strong connections with local businesses and organizations. Outside of work, Amanda’s heart belongs to her husband and her two children, who are her greatest joy. She is excited to continue her journey in the hospitality industry while adding her own special colour to the vibrant Aurora community.
YAMATO YOSHIOKA, DIRECTOR
Yamato Yoshioka is the founder of a boutique leadership practice that partners with executives, business owners, and entrepreneurs as a strategic advisor, consultant, and coach. With over 20 years of senior leadership experience in automotive manufacturing across Canada, the United States, and Japan, Yamato has overseen diverse functions including strategic planning, human resources, corporate risk management, finance, legal, and large-scale operations management. His career highlights include leading cross-border initiatives, managing complex business operations, and fostering cultures of continuous improvement and people development. A native of Newmarket-Aurora, Yamato recently returned home with his wife, Ryoko, to raise their five children in the community where he grew up.