UNICEF Canada’s Executive Team

Farida Deif is the Chief Program Officer at UNICEF Canada, leading the organization's program, policy, and advocacy portfolios, including youth engagement.

Farida is a dynamic executive leader who brings over 20 years of global experience in international development and human rights to UNICEF Canada. Most recently, Farida was the Canada Director at Human Rights Watch where she has been a trusted voice in Ottawa for nearly a decade, shaping Canada’s human rights agenda at home and abroad.

Bernadine Yee is the Chief Operating Officer for UNICEF Canada, providing critical guidance and oversight to the organization, ensuring it delivers on its mandate to help vulnerable children in the most efficient, effective and timely manner.

A caring, trusted leader and problem solver, Bernadine joined UNICEF Canada in 2017.  Prior to that, Bernadine held senior finance leadership roles at Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Diabetes Canada, World Vision Canada and Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from McGill University and has earned her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA) designation.

Sara Zerehi is the Chief Strategic Engagement Officer at UNICEF Canada, leading the organization’s brand, marketing and fundraising efforts to inspire and engage Canadians to improve the lives of children worldwide.

Sara is a seasoned marketing and fundraising executive with extensive leadership experience across both the non-profit and corporate sectors. Prior to joining UNICEF, she was the VP, Partnerships at ROM, Canada's largest museum, where she led the community, corporate and foundation giving programs. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, Sara played a pivotal role in setting the ROM Foundation's strategic vision to achieve and surpass organizational goals and aggressive fundraising targets.