BOARD MANUAL - 2021 The Bhutan Canada Foundation
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2021
The
Bhutan
Canada
Foundation
BOARD MANUAL
1
CONTENTS
ABOUT BCF
Vision
Mission
Core Values
History
Our Programs
BOARD
Members
Board Purpose
Board Member Job Descriptions
Committees of the Board
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Advisory Council Members
Advisory Council Job Description
POLICIES
Code of Conduct
Child Safeguarding Policy
Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Policy
Conflict of Interest Policy
Financial Management Policy
Fundraising Policy
Honorary Consul Expense Policy
Partnerships Policy
Travel and Reimbursement Policy
GOVERNANCE
Organizational Chart
2
VISION
To build Canada’s role in supporting a vibrant and flourishing Bhutan that enhances the wellbeing and
happiness of its people and makes a difference in the world.
MISSION
The Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF) works to further the development of Bhutan and its people
through programs that have an impact on its educational and social institutions. BCF achieves its
goals through partnerships with the people of Bhutan, carrying on a long-standing tradition of
Canadian and Bhutanese knowledge exchange, cooperation and goodwill.
The Bhutan Canada Foundation supports the people of Bhutan in developing the capacity of
individuals and institutions to strengthen the conditions for wellbeing and happiness in the
country. Through advocacy and partnership programs, we carry on a long-standing tradition of
Canadian and Bhutanese knowledge exchange, cooperation and goodwill.
CORE VALUES
• Cooperation & partnership
• Encouraging learning at all levels
• Fostering best practices
• Honesty & transparent dialogue
• Committed to our fiduciary responsibility
HISTORY
Known to the western world as “the
land of happiness” Bhutan is a small
land-locked country in the Eastern
Himalayas. Sandwiched between two
giants, China and India, it is also a
country that works diligently to
promote Bhutanese culture and
preserve ancient traditions, while
seeking prosperity and peace for its
citizens.
Canada has had a close relationship
with the Kingdom of Bhutan since 1963 when Father William Mackey, a Canadian Jesuit, entered
3
Bhutan for the first time and, under the mandate of His Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck,
established Bhutan’s first high school in the remote reaches of the country’s Eastern region. Over
the next 26 years, Mackey worked tirelessly to develop secular education in the country and
became a crucial figure in what his biographer, Howard Solverson, called “an education explosion”
in Bhutan.
In the years to come, a handful of Canadian educators, supported by the World University Service of
Canada (WUSC), would follow in Mackey’s footsteps, traversing the mountainous and treacherous
terrain of Bhutan to teach in rural communities. Between 1985 and 1991, over 40 Canadian
teachers were sent to schools in Bhutan through WUSC. In the subsequent years, the Canadian
International Development Agency (CIDA), the Canadian High Commission, Delhi, and the
University of New Brunswick together maintained the Canadian Cooperation Office (CCO), which
acted as a conduit for Canadian-Bhutanese activities, and served as an important focal point inside
the country for visas, visits and official contacts. Many of the projects carried out by CCO were
focused on educational development.
In 1988, BCF Founder and Chair Sam Blyth had the privilege of visiting Bhutan for the first time
with Pierre Elliot Trudeau and a small group of Canadians. During the visit, the Canadian group
was received by the Foreign Minister and met the legendary Father Mackey. At this time, they also
presented a scholarship to Bhutan on behalf of Lester B. Pearson College. This scholarship provided
full funding for Bhutanese students (one every two years) to attend high school on Vancouver
Island.
The first young Bhutanese student arrived in 1989 at the College, and spent his vacations with the
Blyth family in Toronto. Ten other bright young Bhutanese students followed in his footsteps,
almost all of whom have returned to Bhutan to make significant contributions to the country. Over
the last twenty years, Sam has visited Bhutan on multiple occasions and has had the honour of
being welcomed into the families of these Bhutanese students, which has deepened his love for the
country.
In 2008, Sam visited Bhutan with his wife and two of his children only to learn that the Canadian
government was not renewing its CIDA support for the nation and Canadian Cooperation Office was
closing its doors. Mindful of Canada’s special relationship with Bhutan, particularly its contribution
to building its education system, the family decided that it was important to continue Canada’s
presence in the country, so they stepped forward to help.
On May 5, 2009, their dream was realized when the offices of the Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF)
officially opened in Thimphu, Bhutan. Since that time The Bhutan Canada Foundation has worked
diligently to carry on the tradition of Canadian and Bhutanese cooperation, goodwill and knowledge
exchange, which began with Father Mackey so many years earlier.
Through partnership with the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Ministry of Education The
Bhutan Canada Foundation works to support educational and social institutions in Bhutan. It is our
hope that continued assistance of this nature will help Bhutan achieve its goal of building a society
4
that fully develops the potential of its people and instills in them an awareness of Bhutan’s sacred
cultural values and heritage, all in support of a sustainable and vibrant democracy.
OUR PROGRAMS
Education
As one of the world’s youngest democracies, Bhutan requires an educated population who can
meaningfully participate in both national and local affairs. To this end education is crucial;
according to a 2004 Poverty Analysis Report, the attainment of a mid-secondary level of education
is enough to raise a person out of poverty.
In recent years Bhutan has made huge progress in the
expansion of education across the country. In the past
decade student enrollment across all levels has increased,
gender parity has been achieved at the primary and basic
education levels, and completion rates have improved.
Much of this is due to the Royal Government of Bhutan’s
commitment to education; the government provides free
education to all children, builds boarding facilities in
remote areas, and offers the children of poor families a
living stipend so they may attend school. While these
efforts have lead to a dramatic improvement of education
in Bhutan, maintaining quality education can be a
challenge amidst such rapid expansion
The Bhutan Canada Foundation works in partnership with
the Royal Government of Bhutan to tackle some of the
gaps created by the recent rapid expansion of the
education sector. BCF has helped to achieve goals set by
the Ministry of Education by sending qualified teachers to Bhutan to address a teacher shortage,
strengthening the teacher workforce at all levels, improving professional competence, assisting in
the creation of inclusive education by sending Special Education experts, and facilitating knowledge
exchange between post-secondary educators and institutions.
Reading Program
The Reading Program was initiated in 2016 to strengthen literacy in Bhutan. The program places
teachers from Canada and elsewhere in Bhutanese schools for a period of one month. These
teachers work to enhance literacy through direct engagement with students and mentoring of
teachers.
5Criteria for placement in the Reading Program includes three years of teaching experience, an
education degree, and English as one’s native tongue. Participants in the Reading Program self-fund
their placement. The Bhutan Canada Foundation recruits and screens candidates for the program.
Final selection of participants is undertaken by the Ministry of Education. BCF has sent over 50
teachers to Bhutan as part of the Reading Program. The program was suspended in 2020 due to the
COVID-19 pandemic but will re-started in late 2021 or early 2022.
Teach in Bhutan Program and the Lead Teacher Program
The Teach in Bhutan program has historically been the main initiative of the Bhutan Canada
Foundation. In 2010, BCF sent its first group of 6 adventurous, qualified, native-English speaking
teachers to teach in public schools in the rural reaches of Bhutan. In 2011, this number more than
doubled to sixteen; five first year teachers chose to volunteer for a second year of service.
Since then, BCF has sent more than 80 teachers into over
20 different schools, affecting the lives of many children.
The program has received tremendous support since its
launch and the positive effect our teachers have in their
schools and on the education system in Bhutan is widely
recognized by local Bhutanese teachers, administrators,
and Ministry of Education officials.
Implementation of the program has involved a formal
partnership between BCF and the Ministry of Education and the Royal Government of Bhutan . The
government pays the salaries of all the BCF teachers, which amounts to approximately $5,500 per
teacher and $8,000 per lecturer per year. For 2011, for example, the total RGOB investment was
more than $125,000, plus the time required for administration and support staff within the
Education Ministry and at the Royal University. All placements last for one year, though many BCF
teachers choose to return for two or more years of service.
By 2019, the Ministry of Education indicated that the historical gap in teachers in the country no
longer existed as Bhutan is now graduating enough of its own teachers. As such, the MoE and BCF
have agreed to wind the Teach in Bhutan program down. One Teach in Bhutan teacher remained
placed in 2020 for her third year in the country. BCF will continue to respond to individual requests
from schools as needed.
Looking back, the impact BCF teachers had on their schools and the surrounding communities was
deeply felt; they modeled new teaching and learning techniques, supported improved English
comprehension and speech, provided support to fellow faculty members, led extra-curricular
activities and championed school development projects.
Building on the Teach in Bhutan experience, the MoE and BCF have been in discussions since 2018
on initiating a Lead Teacher program. This program will place Canadian and other senior teachers
in Bhutan for a year to work with a cluster of regional of schools to build the capacity of Bhutanese
6teachers through a range of professional development activities. Recruitment was intended to begin
in 2020 but has been put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic until 2022.
Shauna, Bartsham Middle Secondary School
It was Day One, in February, a cool and dry winter morning at Bartsham Middle Secondary School
when I first greeted my 9C English class. I walked into the room and cheerfully exclaimed, “Good
Morning 9C!”
As expected, I received an equally enthusiastic reply from 34 standing and smiling teens. What I didn’t
expect, however, was that this was where the discussion ended. “Welcome back to school, 9C, how do
you like to be back?” Answer: silence… You could literally hear a pin drop!
I realized then and there that the focus of the year was to promote speech in the class, to encourage
both boys and girls to stand up straight and tall and speak confidently, not hunched over, a hand
covering the mouth, mumbling speech as they burrow their gaze into the floor.
It took time, patience and cultural understanding however the kids finally came around to realizing
that English class is place of community, of sharing ideas, and of creativity.
By taking baby steps and injecting a good dose of humor into the classroom, students’ confidence
increased and learning flourished. Now on days when I hear those terribly shy kids suddenly pipe up in
class, I feel the rush of pride and delight overwhelm my heart as I realize, “Oh yeah, THAT’S why I came
here!”
Tertiary Education Partnership Building
The Bhutan Canada Foundation facilitates the development of partnerships between tertiary
education institutions in Canada and Bhutan. The Royal University of Bhutan and other tertiary
institutions in the country have outlined the need develop their capacity in teaching and research.
They are also interested in connecting with Canadian and North American academics interested in
Bhutanese sabbatical placements, research partnerships or longer term teaching opportunities. BCF
helps facilitate these partnerships. For example, in 2019, BCF brought together the Global Health
Initiative at the University of British Columbia and the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical
Sciences to work together on a joint public health education initiative. BCF continues to work with
other Canadian institutions also interested in connecting with Bhutanese partners.
BCF has also worked directly with the Royal Institute of Management providing editorial and peer
review support in the creation of a new scholarly journal. The journal is intended to support
emerging researchers.
7Education Advising
The Thimphu office of the Bhutan Canada Foundation provides significant support and advice to
prospective Bhutanese students interested in attending Canadian universities and colleges. This
includes providing advice on the kinds of programming available in Canada and assistance with visa
applications. The Thimphu office works closely with the Canadian High Commission in Delhi on
this.
Donor driven projects
BCF has developed several proposals in collaboration with Canadian and Bhutanese partners to
respond to Calls for Proposals from bilateral donors. In 2019, BCF and the Royal Institute of
Management (RIM) received funding from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to collaborate on an
initiative to infuse gender concepts, strategies and skills into RIM’s curriculum. The project was
completed in early 2020 and will ensure RIM’s students, who are primarily civil servants, will
receive training in how to incorporate gender into public program design, implementation and
evaluation. BCF will continue to respond to future Calls for Proposals that are relevant to its work.
Resource Supply
With the help of global partners and generous individual donors, The Bhutan Canada Foundation is
able to organize the shipment of educational supplies and learning resources to schools in rural
Bhutan.
In 2017, with the help of Australian schools and teachers, over 3500 books were delivered to
Lobesa LSS, Punakha. This was been a yearlong project spearheaded by a Reading Program teacher
and assisted by a local teacher to navigate the needs and how to get the books delivered.
In 2011, with the help of Penguin Pearson and armtec, BCF was able to send a large shipment of
books to Bartsham Middle Secondary School, where they stock a previously empty school library.
In 2010, BCF sent a shipment of educational supplies, including free reading books, math
manipulatives, number charts, puppets, paints, pencils, erasers to Mongar Middle Secondary School
where they have been used to enable learning for special education students.
Heritage Preservation
Trans Bhutan Trail
Since late 2019, BCF has been partnered with the Tourism Council of Bhutan to restore the Trans
Bhutan Trail, an historically significant pedestrian path that cuts across the centre of Bhutan. The
goal is to reopen the traditional trail between Trashigang and Haa and make it accessible by foot
and bike to a wide cross-section of Bhutanese and visitors. The restored trail will once again
8become an integral part of Bhutanese culture and will promote fitness, environmental awareness,
grass roots employment, skills development, conservation and national unity.
Since its inception in August, 2019, the following activities have been undertaken:
Phase I
With seed funding and technical expertise provided by Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF),
the TBT project was established, and Steering Committee formed
Initial survey and stakeholder engagement undertaken
Expanded scope of work to include Haa to Thimphu section and identified reroutes to avoid
National Highway
Completed survey and initial clearing of trail (430km) in partnership with De-Suung,
National Land Commission, Forestry, Dzongkhags and Gewogs
Initiated plans for global marketing strategy and initial Gyalsung program design
Phase II
Based on assessment from an April survey, received Nu.20.062m stimulus funding from
Royal Government of Bhutan through TCB with additional contribution from BCF. Through
this funding, 700 tourism workers and other individuals impacted by Covid-19 were
engaged in trail restoration
In collaboration with 28 Gewogs, 9 Dzongkhags and Phrumshingla National Park, trail
restoration works started, with 85% completed
A Trail Passport and TBT Website were developed and are awaiting launch. Branding work
continues on social media platforms.
As we move into Phase III of the project in 2021, BCF will continue its work with Dzongkhags and
Gewogs to undertake further enhancements of the trail and begin to establish trail amenities. We
will build awareness of the trail domestically and internationally to celebrate the TBT as a National
treasure and a world-class destination.
Previous Programming
Bhutan Dental Mission
The Bhutan Canada Foundation worked in partnership with the Bhutan Dental Mission in their
efforts to improve dental health in rural Bhutan. By 2019, the Ministry of Health (MoH) informed
BCF that the country now has enough of its own dentists and that remote areas of the country have
much improved access to dental services. This initiative has therefore been discontinued.
School Development Projects
In the past, BCF teachers not only made a difference inside classrooms but outside classrooms as
well by championing school development projects, which support the unique needs of their school
9community. Our teachers developed and led projects that engaged students and focused on
developing new skills and building community. Past projects include a Special Education Resource
Center in Mongar, a Waste Management and Recycling project in Trashiyangtse, a Photo Club in
Rangjung and a Newspaper Club in Kanglung. Re-engaging this initiative is of interest to BCF should
funding become available.
Lisa, Kanglung Primary School
Back in February I started a newspaper club at Kanglung Primary School. It’s been a huge success with
the inaugural issue of the KPS Observer having come out in June.
There are around a handful of students in the club who have real reporting talent, who take initiative,
think of their own story ideas, come to club excited with stories to hand in. And there’s one student in
particular, Kiran, who’d probably make a better reporter than some adults who write for Bhutanese
newspapers. He’s a kid after my own heart.
This morning, the new PE teacher arrives. Her name is Rika and she’s from Japan. As I walked down to
morning assembly, I thought, ‘Perfect. The newspaper club can do a story on the new PE teacher.’ I
walked to my normal spot in front of 6A, my class. After morning prayer and meditation, the principal
stepped forward to introduce Rika. At the start of his introduction, Kiran, who stands in the front of
the 6A boys line, leans toward me and whispers, “Ma’am, we can interview her for the newspaper.” My
heart soared.
10Student Scholars
Part of BCF’s our mandate is to support
educational opportunities for Bhutanese
students. In Canada, BCF’s Student Scholar
program, geared at high-achieving
students, prepares Bhutanese youth for a
bright educational future. Scholarship
recipients complete secondary education
at Blyth Academy in Toronto which, in
turn, prepares them to pursue post-
secondary education anywhere in the
world. It is the intent of this program that,
upon their return to Bhutan, student
scholars will positively contribute to the
Bhutan’s growing economy and society. In 2020, BCF is partnering with the Royal Academy to
provide financial support for international travel for four students accepted into Yale University’s
Young Global Scholars Program.
Yeshi, Student Scholar 2010 & 2011
Being in Canada is truly a dream-come-true. It has helped me understand life better, I have grown so
much over my stay here and I have had an amazing time with my host family, school, and all people I
know here, that I wouldn't trade these two years of my life for the world!
Chuki, Student Scholar 2016 & 2017
"The opportunity to study abroad was a once in a life time opportunity and it was a privilege to get to
study in Canada for high school. The international experience has made me understand different cultures
and values and also made me independent and self-reliant. It offered me understanding into the
different styles of education that I haven't experienced before and also provided a wider prospective into
which fields I may pursue in post-secondary. My interests have been broadened and I appreciate
everything I have learned and experienced."
Student Scholars – St. George’s School, Vancouver
A scholarship program was developed with St George’s School in Vancouver.
In Fall 2017, the school welcomed two Bhutanese students studying on a full
scholarship. BCF helped support the students to finalize their paperwork for
attendance.
11BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A. Ian Aitken, Director
iaitken@pml.ca
Mr. Aitken is a professional investor and long-time supporter of entrepreneurship education in
Canada. He is the Managing Partner of Pembroke Management, the Chief Executive Officer of
Pembroke Private Wealth Management and the Chief Executive Officer of The GBC American
Growth Fund. In addition, Mr. Aitken serves as the Chairman of Advancing Canadian
Entrepreneurship, a registered Canadian charity and as a Director of The John Dobson Foundation.
He is also a past president of the St. Andrew’s Society of Montreal. Mr. Aitken has had a great
interest in Bhutan since his first visit to the country during 1997.
Date appointed: November 17, 2011
David Beatty, Director
drbobe1942@gmail.com
David is a Professor at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto where he
runs the David and Sharon Johnston Centre for Corporate Governance Innovation which studies
board of directors of all kinds across Canada and internationally. He still overseas the Canadian
Directors’ Education Program now in its 15th year having already trained some 6,000 prominent
Canadians. He has served on over 40 Boards of Directors of publicly traded companies and been
Chairman of 8 in Canada, Australia, Mexico, the USA and the UK. He is an angel investor in a number
of start-ups in Canada and the US.
Date appointed: November 4, 2019
Stewart Beck, Director
Stewart.beck@asiapacific.ca
Stewart Beck is the President and CEO of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. Prior to joining APF
Canada, Mr. Beck served as the Canadian High Commissioner to the Republic of India with concurrent
accreditation to the Kingdom of Bhutan and to Nepal. He joined Canada's Department of External
Affairs and International Trade (now Global Affairs Canada) in 1982 and served abroad in the United
States, Taiwan, and the People's Republic of China. In Ottawa, he held a number of progressively more
senior positions, including Director General of the North Asia Bureau, Director General Responsible
for Senior Management and Rotational Assignments, and Assistant Deputy Minister for International
Business Development, Investment, and Innovation. He was Consul General in Shanghai and prior to
his posting to India, he was Consul General in San Francisco.
Date appointed: February 23, 2018
Madeleine Blyth, Director
madeleineblyth@techstars.com
Madeleine runs the Techstars Barclays fintech accelerator, arguably the world’s most selective
fintech programme. In this role, she has invested in, and supported, over 20 startups over the last
12two years. At just 25, she has scouted and held meetings with upwards of 400 entrepreneurs in
more than 12 countries and is a fixture judge and mentor at London startup events. Prior to this,
Madeleine has managed business development and growth for several London-based startups.
Madeleine has had a lifelong love for Bhutan. Growing up, her house was a billet home for
Bhutanese students, some of whom remain like members of her family. She has travelled to Bhutan
several times and, in 2012, she spent a month in Bhutan conducting anthropological field research
for her thesis on the relationship between the introduction of the internet and the discovery of a
democratic voice in Bhutan.
Date appointed: June 15, 2017
Sam Blyth, Founder and Chair
samblyth@blytheducation.com
Sam was educated at Pembroke College, Cambridge (MA), and the University of Paris. In addition to
leading his successful company Blyth Academy, established in 1978, Sam has spent much of his
adult life working and traveling around the world. After being introduced to Bhutan by Pierre Elliot
Trudeau in 1988, Blyth has revisited the country on a number of occasions and has visited several
Bhutanese students who have studied in Canada. His love for education and passion for the nation
led him to launch The Bhutan Canada Foundation in 2009 and in 2011 he was honored to become
the official Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Bhutan to Canada.
Date appointed: May 19, 2009
Lucie Edwards, Director
lucie.edwards@bell.net
Lucie Edwards was honoured to be appointed Canada’s first Ambassador to Bhutan in 2004. She
also served as Canada’s High Commissioner to Kenya, South Africa and India. Throughout her 34
year career in the Canadian Foreign Service she specialized in international development and
human rights. She served in the Occupied Territories and in the townships in Apartheid South
Africa. In 1995, she received the Public Service Award of Excellence for her humanitarian work
during the genocide in Rwanda.
Her expertise in Ottawa was in Corporate Planning and Finance; she served as Assistant Deputy
Minister for Corporate Services and as Chief Strategist in the Foreign Ministry.
Lucie continues to work as a consultant and advisor in international development. She has served
as the Chair of the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry and the International Network
for Bamboo and Rattan and co-chair of the Gender and Development Program of the Consultative
Group on International Agricultural Research. Here in Canada, she serves on the Board of CUSO
International and previously served as Chair of Partners in Health Canada.
Lucie has taught international relations at three Canadian universities, and currently serves as a
Senior Mentor in the National Security Program at the Canadian Forces College. She has written
extensively on the use of science and technology for the poor, with a particular focus on initiatives
to support the “bottom billion” in Africa and South Asia.
13Date appointed: April 11, 2016
Lynn Haight, Director
lynnhaight01@gmail.com
Lynn is the Chair of the independent Audit and Oversight Panel of the United Nations High
Commission for Refugees in Geneva. She is also a Board Member of the Public Sector Pension
Investment Board of Canada and Somerville College Development Board, Oxford University. She has
recently retired as Chair of the Consortium Board of International Agricultural Research Centre in
Montpellier, and retired in 2009 as COO and CFO of Foresters Financial. Lynn is Fellow of the
Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants in Canada. She has a Honours MA degree from
Oxford University. She has always enjoyed international development work, and has been a
consultant to the UNDTCD, UNDP and the World Bank in different countries which gave her insight
into the impact of climate change and the extreme difficulty of maintaining a national culture. She
visited Bhutan with the Chairman’s tour in 2019, and fell in love with the country.
Date appointed: March 25, 2019
Gwendolyn Julien, Director
gjulienmedeiros@gmail.com
Gwendolyn maintains a multifaceted career in organizational development and people
development as a business consultant, leadership coach and educator within the public, private and
non-profit sectors. She obtained a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) at Ryerson University, a Bachelor
of Education (B.Ed) at the University of Toronto, Professional Coaching Credentials (CPCC) with
The Coaches Training Institute, and a Master of Arts in Leadership from Royal Roads University.
Her Master’s thesis was titled “Developing a Strategic Approach to Stakeholder Engagement at SOS
Children’s Villages Canada”, which sparked a passion for helping organizations better understand
and utilize their social capital. Gwendolyn’s work with Directors of non-profit organizations started
with a focus on board effectiveness. Gwendolyn is a relentless champion of personal expression
and fulfillment in work and life and she regularly participates in arts, culture and wellness
activities. She lives in Toronto with her husband and two children.
Date appointed: April 28, 2015
Jane Pepino, Director
jpepino@airdberlis.com
Jane is a lawyer practicing planning and development law, based in Toronto at Aird and Berlis. She
is a long time active volunteer, presently serving on the Board of Women’s College Hospital, and
Governing Council of the University of Toronto. She enjoys travel that does not involve a beach,
pool, or resort. Interests include grandchildren, as well as a large vegetable garden and orchard, bee
keeping and coping with produce in a variety of ways. Jane was a traveler with the Chairman’s Trip
with BCF in April 2017.
Date appointed: October 4, 2017
Doma Tshering, Director
dtshering@mfa.gov.bt
14Doma Tshering is the new Permanent Representative of Bhutan to the United Nations. Prior to her
new appointment, Ms. Tshering was the Director of the Multilateral Department in the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs in Thimphu between 2012 and 2017. She served as Chief of the Foreign Ministry’s
Policy Planning Division from 2009 to 2012.Previously, Ms. Tshering served as Deputy Permanent
Representative to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland,
from 2007 to 2009. She held the position of Counsellor from 2005 to 2006. From 2004 to 2005,
Ms. Tshering headed the Europe and Americas Division, and from 2000 until 2003, she served as
Under Secretary in the Policy Planning Division. She also served as First Secretary in Bhutan’s
Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York from 1995 to 2000.
Date appointed: October 4, 2017
Board Purpose
1. Determine mission and purpose. It is the board's responsibility to create and review a
statement of mission and purpose that articulates the organization's goals, means, and
primary constituents served.
2. Select the chief executive. Boards must reach consensus on the chief executive's
responsibilities and undertake a careful search to find the most qualified individual for the
position.
3. Support and evaluate the chief executive. The board should ensure that the chief executive
has the moral and professional support he or she needs to further the goals of the
organization.
4. Ensure effective strategic planning. Boards must actively participate in an overall strategic
planning process and assist in implementing and monitoring the plan's goals.
5. Monitor, and strengthen programs and services. The board's responsibility is to determine
which programs are consistent with the organization's mission and monitor their
effectiveness.
6. Ensure adequate financial resources. One of the board's foremost responsibilities is to
secure adequate resources for the organization to fulfill its mission. This includes being
actively involved in fund raising.
7. Protect assets and provide proper financial oversight. The board must assist in developing
the annual budget and ensuring that proper financial controls are in place to manage all
types of risks facing the organization and its members.
8. Build a competent board. All boards have a responsibility to articulate prerequisites for
candidates, orient new members, and periodically and comprehensively evaluate their own
performance.
159. Ensure legal and ethical integrity. The board is ultimately responsible for adherence to legal
standards and ethical norms.
10. Enhance the organization's public standing. The board should clearly articulate the
organization's mission, accomplishments, and goals to the public and garner support from
the community.
16Board Member Job Description and Expectations
Board Chair Job Description
1. Is a member of the Board
2. Serves as the Chief Volunteer of the organization (nonprofit only)
3. Is a partner with the Chief Executive in achieving the organization's mission
4. Provides leadership to the Board of Directors, who sets policy and to whom the Chief Executive is
accountable.
5. Chairs meetings of the Board after developing the agenda with the Chief Executive.
6. Encourages Board's role in strategic planning
7. Appoints the chairpersons of committees, in consultation with other Board members.
8. Serves ex officio as a member of committees and attends their meetings when invited.
9. Discusses issues confronting the organization with the Chief Executive.
10. Helps guide and mediate Board actions with respect to organizational priorities and governance
concerns.
11. Reviews with the Chief Executive any issues of concern to the Board.
12. Monitors financial planning and financial reports.
13. Plays a leading role in fundraising activities (nonprofit only)
14. Formally evaluates the performance of the Chief Executive and informally evaluates the
effectiveness of the Board members.
15. Evaluates annually the performance of the organization in achieving its mission.
16. Performs other responsibilities assigned by the Board.
Committee Chair Job Description
1. Is a member of the Board
2. Sets tone for the committee work.
3. Ensures that members have the information needed to do their jobs.
4. Oversees the logistics of committee's operations.
5. Reports to the Board's Chair.
6. Reports to the full Board on committee's decisions/recommendations.
7. Works closely with the Executive Director and other staff as agreed to by the Executive Director.
8. Assigns work to the committee members, sets the agenda and runs the meetings, and ensures
distribution of meeting minutes.
9. Initiates and leads the committee's annual evaluation.
17Board Member Job Description
1. Regularly attends board meetings and important related meetings.
2. Makes serious commitment to participate actively in committee work.
3. Volunteers for and willingly accepts assignments and completes them thoroughly and on time.
4. Stays informed about committee matters, prepares themselves well for meetings, and reviews
and comments on minutes and reports.
5. Gets to know other committee members and builds a collegial working relationship that
contributes to consensus.
6. Is an active participant in the committee's annual evaluation and planning efforts.
7. Participates in fund raising for the organization (nonprofit only).
Board Secretary Job Description
1. Is a member of the Board
2. Maintains records of the board and ensures effective management of organization's records
3. Manages minutes of board meetings
4. Ensures minutes are distributed to members shortly after each meeting
5. Is sufficiently familiar with legal documents (articles, by-laws, CRA letters, etc.) to note
applicability during meetings
Board Treasurer Job Description
1. Is a member of the Board
2. Manages finances of the organization
3. Administrates fiscal matters of the organization
4. Provides annual budget to the board for members' approval
5. Ensures development and board review of financial policies and procedures
Committees of the Board
Finance Committee – Responsible for recommending financial policies, goals and budgets that
support the mission, values and strategic goals of the organization. The committee also reviews the
organization’s financial performance against its goals and proposed major transactions and
programs to the board.
Fundraising Committee – Responsible for overseeing development and implementation of the
Fundraising Plan; identifies and solicits funds from external sources of support in collaboration
with fundraising staff.
Governance Committee – Responsible for governance/policy, strategic planning & nominations.
18ADVISORY COUNCIL
Kathy Allan
143 Galley Avenue, Toronto, ON M6R 1H2
kathya@interlog.com
Kathy is a biologist who has been privileged to work with environmental and international charities
that work to sustain balance on this earth. Certified as a Fundraising Executive since 1998, Kathy
has worked for small charities in Toronto, preferably within a bicycle ride of her home, and has
volunteer and work experience in Egypt, India, Bhutan, Zambia and Pakistan.
Kathy and her husband Patrick first visited a friend teaching in Bhutan in 1989 and have
maintained friendships and a love for the tiny kingdom since. In 2009 travelling with their two
teenage daughters, they appreciated the vast changes and tremendous progress achieved in just
twenty years.
Kathy works with the Humanitarian Coalition, a coalition of five international charities responding
to international humanitarian disasters. She is based in Toronto.
Date appointed: November 17, 2011
Ann Berman
4381 Line 10 Bradford ON L0L 1L0
(705) 458-9920
annberman@live.com
Going to Bhutan to teach was the fulfillment of a life dream for Ann. From the first time she traveled
the world from 1972 to 1975, and visited the people of the Himalayas, she knew that this was where
she wanted to teach one day. She returned home to attend York University to become a teacher. In
the process, she settled down and brought up two wonderful sons. After 30 satisfying years teaching
primary school in Simcoe County, Ontario, with short volunteer teaching stints in Guatemala and
Mirik, India, she finally had the opportunity to teach in Bhutan in 2010. Ann spent an incredible year
teaching English and developing a Special Education program in Mongar. She returned to Canada at
the end of 2010, but Bhutan will always remain close to her heart.
Gerald Clarke
277 Keswick Ridge Road Fredericton New Brunswick E6L1S2
(506) 363-4514
gclarke@unb.ca
Gerry Clarke worked as a professor and dean at The University of New Brunswick. He studied at
Kenyon College, Fordham University and Carnegie-Mellon University. He was the first Director of the
UNB Bhutan Project which began in 1985 with a contract from the World University Service of
Canada and evolved into a series of multi-million dollar CIDA projects. The UNB arrangement with
Bhutan included the management of the Canadian Cooperation Office in Thimphu, academic
programs for Bhutanese teachers at both the undergraduate and graduate level, and in-country
curriculum and professional development support. Although the major CIDA project ended several
years ago (resulting in the unforeseen but happy creation of The Bhutan Canada Foundation) the
19relationship between Bhutan and UNB continues, primarily through programs in The Faculty of
Education, Renaissance College and The Faculty of Engineering. In retirement, Gerry has turned his
hand to organic farming. During his travels throughout the country he learned a thing or two from
the Bhutanese about connections between people and the earth.
John Stares
Highfield, Route de Sausmarez St. Martin, Guernsey GY4 6SE United Kingdom
+44 148 123 2790
jstares@me.com
Since 2001 John has taken on a portfolio of part‐time roles in business and the voluntary sector.
His current roles include Chair of JT (formerly Jersey Telecoms) and More House School, Trustee of
the Arts & Islands Foundation, BCF Advisory Board Member and Non‐Executive Directorships with
Jersey Electricity Company plc, INPP plc and Terra Firma.
From 1978 to 2001 John was a Management Consultant with Accenture and held a wide variety of
leadership roles in its Canadian, European and Global practices. John is a graduate of Imperial College,
London University, a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales, a member
of the Worshipful Company of Management Consultants and Freeman of the City of London.
Lhatu Wangchuk
Motithang, Thimphu, Bhutan
+975 1790 7689
lwangchuk@hotmail.com
Lhatu Wangchuk has strong ties to Canada as he was a student of Father William Mackey and spent
some time working for him. He is widely travelled and was previously the Head of Tourism in
Thimphu as well as Ambassador to Bangladesh, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and South Korea.
He has also served as Chief of Protocol and Acting Foreign Secretary in Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign
Affairs. Until recently, he was Ambassador to Canada, and Bhutan’s Ambassador and Permanent
Representative to the United Nations, New York. He has retired on superannuation and lives in
Thimphu.
ADVISORY COUNCIL JOB DESCRIPTION
Purpose
The Advisory Council serves as a vital community champion of The Bhutan Canada Foundation.
Members of the Advisory Council share their gifts in service to our mission by providing our
organization with their professional expertise; their diverse knowledge of constituent perspectives;
their connection to local, national or international resources, colleagues or peers; their
philanthropic support or other forms of needed assistance. This council consists of thoughtful
leaders who advise BCF board of directors and staff.
Structure
Elected by the board of directors;
Three year terms, renewable indefinitely;
Lead by the Chair of The Bhutan Canada Foundation
20As a member of the Advisory Council you would be asked to:
Contribute your expertise and thinking to the current and future work of The Bhutan
Canada Foundation;
Be available for several calls each year from staff and/or board members seeking advice;
Allow The Bhutan Canada Foundation to publish your name as a member of the Advisory
Council.
In return, The Bhutan Canada Foundation promises to:
Keep you updated on BCF activities through the provision of an annual summary;
Invite you to attend BCF events as our special guest;
Invite you to attend all BCF quarterly board meetings ex-officio;
Appreciate your time and your generosity.
21POLICIES
CODE OF CONDUCT
1) PURPOSE
The Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF) has a mission to support the people of Bhutan in developing the
capacity of individuals and institutions to strengthen the conditions for wellbeing and happiness in the
country. Through advocacy and partnership programs, BCF carries on a long-standing tradition of
Canadian and Bhutanese knowledge exchange, cooperation and goodwill. In pursuing its goals, BCF
serves the interests of all Bhutanese people.
In delivering programs to Bhutan and its people, employees and volunteers work with each other and the
public at large. This Code of Conduct (“the Code”) and accompanying policies are designed to allow BCF
to preserve its integrity and credibility with the public and within the Foundation in two primary areas:
A) SERVICE
a. Always act with fairness, honesty, integrity and openness; respect the opinions of others and
treat all with equality and dignity without regard to gender, race, colour, creed, ancestry, place of
origin, political beliefs, religion, marital status, disability, age, or sexual orientation.
b. Promote the mission and objectives of BCF in all dealings with the public and within BCF.
c. Provide a positive and valuable experience for those participating in BCF activities.
B) ACCOUNTABILITY
a. Act with honesty and integrity and in accordance with any professional standards and/or
governing laws and legislation in Canada and Bhutan that have application to any responsibilities
performed for or on behalf of BCF.
b. Comply with both the letter and the spirit of any training or orientation provided to you by the
Bhutan Canada Foundation in connection with individual responsibilities.
c. Adhere to the policies and procedures of the Bhutan Canada Foundation and support the
decisions and directions of the Board and its delegated authority
d. Take responsibility for all actions and decisions. Follow reporting lines to facilitate the
effective resolution of problems. Do not exceed the authority of your position.
2) SCOPE
The Code applies to all program volunteers, all employees (permanent full-time, hourly, fixed term
contract, permanent part-time), all board members, partners and third party service providers in face-to
face contact with anyone connected with BCF. The Code and all BCF policies to which it refers outline
expectations regarding all manner of behaviour in compliance with legislation, corporate bi-laws
22and policies, including:
• Ethical matters -For example, Privacy, Conflict of Interest, gifts, asset protection (protect
against the loss, manipulation, destruction, and unintended disclosure of physical and
information assets).
• Respect in the Workplace - For example, Company values and culture, Sexual and general
harassment and discrimination; equal opportunity.
• Professionalism - For example, Dress Code, Gifts, job duties and authorities, absenteeism,
Fitness for Duty (drugs and alcohol).
BCF policies will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes to legislation and stakeholder
expectations or if an issue arises with its interpretation and use.
3) INTERPRETATION OF POLICY
A) LEGISLATION
Criminal Code (Canada)
Human Rights Code (Ontario)
Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ontario)
Child Care and Protection Act (Bhutan)
Penal Code (Bhutan)
B) DEFINITIONS
CHILD
Child refers to any individual under the age of 18, irrespective of local country definitions of
when a child reaches adulthood.
CHILD SAFEGUARDING
Child safeguarding refers to the actions BCF employs to ensure it is a child safe
organization.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Conflict of interest arises when a person participates in a decision about a matter (including any
contract or arrangement of employment, travel, leasing, sale, promotion or provision of goods
and services) which may benefit or be seen to benefit that person because of his/her direct or
indirect monetary or financial interests affected by or involved in that matter.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Respect and maintain the confidentiality of information gained as a volunteer, employee, or
board member including, but not limited to, all computer software and files, the Bhutan Canada
Foundation business documents and printouts, all student records and all volunteer, employee,
board membership, donor and supporter records.
PARTNER
23Partner refers to any individual or corporate entity who is supported by BCF in establishing
relationships or operations in Bhutan.
PERSONAL HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION
Personal harassment means any conduct whether verbal or physical that is discriminating in
nature, based upon another person’s race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political beliefs,
religion, marital status, physical or mental disability, sex, age or sexual orientation. It is
discriminatory behaviour, directed at an individual, that is unwanted or unwelcome and causes
substantial distress in that person and serves no legitimate work-related purpose.
Sexual harassment is any conduct, comment, gesture or contact of a sexual nature that one
would find to be unwanted or unwelcome by any individual, or that might, on reasonable
grounds, be perceived by that individual as placing a condition of sexual nature on an
employment or career development.
PROTECTION FROM SEXUAL EXPLOITATION AND ABUSE
Measures taken to protect vulnerable people from sexual exploitation and abuse by their own
staff and associated personnel. Sexual exploitation refers to any actual or attempted abuse of a
position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not
limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another.
Sexual abuse refers to an actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by
force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
THIRD PARTY SERVICE PROVIDER
Any consultant, agent, advisor or independent contractor who renders services to the Bhutan
Canada Foundation.
VOLUNTEER
A person who performs work or supplies services without any monetary compensation.
WORKER
A person who performs work or supplies services for monetary compensation.
WORKPLACE
A workplace is any land, premises, location or thing at, upon, in or near which a worker
works.
4) APPLICATION PROCEDURES
BCF will distribute the Code and accompanying BCF policies to all employees, volunteers,
members of the board, partners and third party service-providers and publish it online on its
website. Relevant training will be provided as required and applicable to each BCF policy.
Strict observance of the Code and accompanying BCF policies is fundamental to the activity and
24reputation of the Bhutan Canada Foundation. It is essential that all volunteers, all board members, all
employees, any partners and any third party service providers adhere to this Code and the policies to
which it refers. They will certify this by signing a Declaration that they have read and will abide by this
Code and BCF policies.
Disciplinary action will be taken against anyone who repeatedly or intentionally fail to follow the code of
conduct. Action taken depends on violation, included but not limited to:
• Demotion.
• Reprimand.
• Suspension or termination for more serious offences.
• Detraction of benefits for a definite or indefinite time.
• legal action in cases of corruption, theft, embezzlement or other unlawful behavior.
RELATED POLICY DOCUMENTS
Bhutan Canada Foundation By-Laws 2020
Child Safeguarding Policy
Conflict of Interest Policy
Financial Management Policy
Fundraising Policy
Partnerships Policy
Protection from Sexual Abuse Exploitation and Abuse Policy
Travel Expense Reimbursement Policy
CODE OF CONDUCT DECLARATION
I, ___________________________ , have read, understand and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct
and all accompanying policies of the Bhutan Canada Foundation and I understand that such adherence is a
condition of my employment or volunteer work. I understand that a violation of the Code of Conduct may
be grounds for termination as a volunteer or in the case of an employee immediate dismissal for just cause
without notice or pay in lieu of notice. In the case of board members, violation of the Code may be cause
for removal from the board of the Bhutan Canada Foundation
Signed this ________________ day of ____________________, 20_____.
________________________________________
Signature (Volunteer/Employee/Board member/Partner)
Original Code of Conduct was approved by the BCF board of directors on February 6, 2012
Most recent update February 17, 2021
25CHILD SAFEGUARDING POLICY
This policy describes Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF)’s commitment to child safeguarding in
order to ensure that BCF is safe for children. BCF has zero tolerance towards child abuse, neglect,
violence and exploitation.
Scope
This policy applies to BCF staff, volunteers, board directors, representatives and any individual or
corporate entity who is supported by BCF in establishing relationships or operations in Bhutan
(hereafter “BCF personnel”).
Definitions
Child abuse constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect
or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to
the child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility,
trust or power.1 Community and societal factors may increase the risk of child abuse, such as
gender, ability, and social inequality.2
Child refers to anyone under 18 years of age.
Child safeguarding refers to the actions BCF employs to ensure it is a child safe organization.
Behaviour Protocol Guidelines
BCF personnel must abide by the following behavioural protocols:
1. BCF personnel must treat all children with dignity and respect.
2. BCF personnel shall not use verbal conduct such as derogatory comments or sexual
harassment, invitations, exchange money, or use own power and authority to persuade a
child to act in sexual ways.
3. BCF personnel shall not make children feel uncomfortable, or use visual items or written
communication of a sexual nature.
4. BCF personnel must not intentionally cause physical pain or injury to a child or do any form
of child abuse.
5. BCF personnel shall not hire children for child labor.
1 Krug, Etienne G., editor, et al. World Report on Violence and Health. World Health Organization: Geneva,
2002, p 59.
2 World Health Organization. “Child maltreatment”. 8 June 2020. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-
sheets/detail/child-maltreatment
266. BCF personnel must not exchange personal information with children (eg. email, phone
number, or social media contacts).
7. BCF personnel shall not post child photos, videos and other personal information of
children on social media without consent from a parent, guardian, or school principal.
8. BCF personnel shall dress in a culturally acceptable way when visiting schools. Locally
purchased kiras and ghos as well as long skirts and trousers are recommended.
9. Ensure that all confidential information, including reports of violations of these standards
by colleagues, obtained from members of the local community or colleagues, is handled
properly and with the utmost confidentiality.
10. BCF personnel shall report immediately to a BCF staff member if they notice or suspect any
incident of abuse or harm to children. Those who receive these reports will investigate
immediately.
Inappropriate behavior toward children, including failure to follow these protocols is grounds for
termination and subject to legal action as per applicable laws in Canada and Bhutan. It is BCF’s
policy to ensure compliance with the child welfare and protection legislation in Bhutan, as outlined
in The Child Care and Protection Act of Bhutan 2011, or Canadian law and standards, whichever
affords greater protection.
Training
To increase awareness of child protection, BCF personnel are trained relevant to their level of direct
contact with children. All personnel are trained on reporting child safeguarding concerns and
allegations. For BCF program volunteers, training will occur remotely prior to departure to Bhutan.
A follow-up review of the training material will also be undertaken with BCF staff upon arrival in
Bhutan.
Reporting
All policy adherents have an obligation to report witnessed or suspected child abuse within 24
hours. Reports should be made to the Executive Director of BCF through email at
kent@bhutancanada.org. In cases where abuse involves BCF staff and where whistleblower
protection is required, reports should be made by email to the Chair of BCF’s Governance
Committee at governance@bhutancanada.org.
Related documents
Bhutan Canada Foundation Code of Conduct
Approved by the BCF board on February 24, 2021
27PREVENTION OF SEXUAL EXPLOITATION AND ABUSE POLICY
1. Purpose and scope
The purpose of this document is to articulate the commitment of the Bhutan Canada Foundation (BCF)
to preventing sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and sexual harassment within the organization and its
programs by defining a policy framework for the way BCF carries out its work. This policy on the
Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) applies to BCF employees, board members,
volunteers, interns, representatives and any individual or corporate entity who is supported by BCF in
establishing relationships or operations in Bhutan.
2. Interpretation of Policy
A. Legislation
Criminal Code (Canada)
Human Rights Code (Ontario)
Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ontario)
Child Care and Protection Act (Bhutan)
Penal Code (Bhutan)
B. Definitions
Child refers to any individual under the age of 18, irrespective of local country definitions of when a
child reaches adulthood.
Partner refers to any individual or corporate entity who is supported by BCF in establishing relationships
or operations in Bhutan.
Sexual exploitation refers to any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential
power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or
politically from the sexual exploitation of another.
Sexual abuse refers to an actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or
under unequal or coercive conditions.
Sexual harassment refers to unwelcome words or actions associated with sex, sexual orientation or
gender that are that are known or should be known to be offensive, embarrassing, humiliating or
demeaning to a worker or group of workers, in a workplace. It can also include behaviour that
intimidates or isolates individual(s). Workplace sexual harassment may include:
• asking questions, talking, or writing about sexual activities;
• rough or vulgar humour or language related to sexuality, sexual orientation or gender;
• displaying or circulating pornography, sexual images, or offensive sexual jokes in print or
electronic form;
• leering or inappropriate staring;
• invading personal space;
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